Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Cedar, referring to various species within the genera Cedrus, Juniperus, or Thuja, has a history of use in traditional medicine systems for a range of skin ailments, including itching. In folk medicine, cedar extracts, oils, or decoctions have been applied topically to alleviate irritation, itching, and inflammation. Some Native American tribes reportedly used cedar leaf infusions for skin complaints, and similar uses are noted in parts of Asia and the Middle East, where cedarwood oil or preparations were applied for their purported anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

However, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of cedar for treating itching is minimal. While cedarwood oil has demonstrated mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory studies, high-quality clinical trials evaluating its use specifically for pruritus (itching) are lacking. Furthermore, cedarwood oil can sometimes cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Thus, while there is a basis in tradition for the use of cedar in managing itching, modern clinical validation is absent, and evidence supporting its effectiveness is weak.

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Other ingredients used for Itching

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