Aromatic cedar is a popular material recognized for its distinctive, pleasing fragrance and widespread use in household storage. This reddish wood is commonly utilized to construct chests, line closets, and craft small accessories like hangers and drawer sachets. The wood’s strong, clean scent is specifically sought after for its ability to naturally deter various household pests, particularly those that damage woolens and natural fibers.
The True Identity of Aromatic Cedar
The wood marketed as aromatic cedar is not a true cedar from the Cedrus genus, but is instead a species of juniper botanically known as Juniperus virginiana. This tree is more accurately called Eastern Redcedar and is the most widely distributed conifer native to eastern North America. The wood’s highly valued properties come from the reddish-brown heartwood, which is the dense, inner core of the trunk. The heartwood contains the highest concentration of aromatic oils and is known for its durability and resistance to decay, contributing to its traditional use in long-term storage.
The Chemistry Behind the Distinctive Scent
The strong, woody scent of Aromatic Cedar originates from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) stored within the wood’s structure. The primary compound responsible for both the aroma and the repellent action is Cedrol, a sesquiterpene alcohol. Cedrol makes up a significant portion of the essential oil extracted from the wood, often ranging between 15% and 20% in the Virginia and Texas cedarwood oils. The wood constantly releases these volatile oils into the air as a vapor, which creates the pleasant fragrance that humans perceive.
This continuous release of Cedrol vapor is the mechanism that allows the wood to function as a natural deterrent. While the aroma is appealing to people, the concentration of these airborne compounds is disorienting and often toxic to certain insects. The vapor interferes with the pests’ sensory systems, disrupting the pheromones they use for navigation and reproduction, effectively making the cedar a repellent barrier.
Practical Uses for Storage and Pest Deterrence
The most traditional and effective use of aromatic cedar is in sealed storage containers designed to protect clothing and linens from destructive pests. Cedar chests, blanket boxes, and closet linings are valued because the confined space allows the volatile oils to build up to a concentration high enough to deter fabric pests. The wood is particularly effective against the larvae of clothes moths and carpet beetles, which are the life stages that cause damage to wool and other animal fibers. The vapor primarily acts as a deterrent, discouraging pests from laying eggs rather than killing adult insects or existing eggs.
For the wood’s repellent properties to remain active, the aromatic surface needs occasional renewal. Over time, the volatile oils near the surface can evaporate or crystallize, diminishing the scent and the deterrent effect. Lightly sanding the wood surface with a fine-grit sandpaper (such as 120 or 150 grit) exposes the fresh, oil-rich heartwood beneath. This simple maintenance releases a new burst of Cedrol-rich vapor, rejuvenating the wood’s ability to protect stored items. Untreated wood is recommended, as varnishes or paints can seal in the natural oils and prevent the release of the protective aroma.
Health and Safety Considerations
While the scent of aromatic cedar is enjoyed by many, exposure to the wood or its concentrated oil requires certain safety considerations for both people and pets. The fine dust created when working with the wood can cause respiratory irritation or allergic skin reactions in sensitive individuals. Prolonged exposure to the wood dust or the concentrated fumes from the essential oil should be avoided, and good ventilation is necessary when using cedar products in enclosed spaces.
The concentrated essential oil should be used with caution around household pets. Cats are especially sensitive to cedarwood oil because they lack the specific liver enzymes needed to properly metabolize the chemical compounds. Using undiluted oil directly on pets or in unventilated diffusers may result in adverse reactions. Pet owners should consult a veterinarian before using cedar-based products, especially cedar shavings used as bedding for small animals, where concentrated fumes can be harmful.