It makes sense, right? That a TREE would be good medicine for our LUNGS?
The cedar tree – “Long Life Giver” – has been harvested by native peoples for its array of medicinal, practical & spiritual uses for ages. From drinking tea made of the leaves to burning smudge bundles, this is a potent medicine. One that could be of great help in a time of a pandemic aimed at harming our respiratory system. Cedar can help clear the lungs & sinuses, reduce coughs & fever, and enhance immune function.
Sources* say, “Cedar improves blood flow, so you can take in more oxygen, clear waste products, and get more nutrients to tissue. It activates immune cells, which directly fights microbes. Essential oils in cedar inhibit bacterial and fungal growth.”
Three simple ways to use cedar to improve respiratory health:
Cedar Tea
Steep a few handfuls of fresh or dried sprigs in a quart of cool water for several hours or overnight, then strain. Alternatively, it can be made hot by bringing water to a boil & steeping sprigs for 10 minutes or until the water starts to turn a golden green color. You can breathe in the sweet scented steam while you let it do it’s thing too. My curandera taught me the practice of singing or praying over the brew as it infuses to intentionally add love, gratitude, and honor – healing energy itself!
Note: tea should be drank in moderation as I understand too much creates a toxic build up damaging to liver or kidneys
Cedar Steam Bath
Prepare a few handfuls of sprigs by breaking into small pieces & placing in a large bowl. Bring water to a boil & pour over cedar. Place face over steaming bowl & cover head with a towel. Breathe deeply through the nose for several minutes, and repeat a few times a day as needed.*
Another thing I love is to add cedar brew & essential oil to hot bath water & soak for 20-30 minutes.
Cedarwood Essential Oil – “The Oil of Community”
Diffuse a few drops in a diffuser or mix with a carrier oil to massage on heart and/or feet. This oil is great for reducing anxiety, feelings of loneliness, and skin breakouts (which can be caused by increased stress levels). It can improve respiratory & root chakra function, promotes relaxation in mind & body, and increases feelings of connectedness.
Note: cedarwood essential oil should only be used externally.
How to acquire cedar?
There are many places to wild harvest cedar & online sources to get it from if you don’t live near a grove (I’ve found them in western Montana, northern Idaho & Washington so far). It’s important to practice sustainable harvesting & keep in mind a sense of reciprocity – this medicine is bringing you something of great value so be sure to leave her with something of value too (offerings of song, water, gratitude, tobacco, crystals, etc. are appreciated). Always ask before you take & be mindful of the land you’re on.
This is a dear-to-me sacred & wise spirit ally. One who consistently reminds me to follow my heart. Hope you do the same. Stay well!
*wildfoodsandmedicines.com
Wild Altar 