Antonio Mcgowan
Aromatic cedar, also known as Eastern red cedar, is valued for its fragrant scent, which comes from natural oils within the wood, called thujaplicins. The aroma of aromatic cedar has a limited duration and dissipates over time. However, the scent can be revived by sanding the surface to release the aromatic oils. The effectiveness of this method diminishes with each subsequent sanding. The dissipation of the aroma in aromatic cedar is a relevant concern, especially considering its popularity in furniture and pest control applications, where both the fragrance and insect-repelling properties are valued.
What You'll Learn
Aromatic cedar is a type of juniper tree
Aromatic cedar, also known as Eastern red cedar, is a type of juniper tree. Its biological name is Juniperus Virginiana, and it is native to eastern North America, from southeastern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico and east of the Great Plains. Aromatic cedar is often confused with "true" cedars, which belong to the Cedrus genus. However, despite its name, aromatic cedar is not part of this genus.
Juniperus Virginiana is a dense, slow-growing coniferous evergreen tree. It typically grows to a height of 5-20 meters (16-66 feet) and has a short trunk with a diameter of 30-100 centimetres (12-39 inches). The bark is reddish-brown and fibrous, peeling off in narrow strips. The leaves are needle-like and arranged in opposite decussate pairs or whorls of three. The seed cones are berry-like, dark purple-blue with a white wax cover, giving them an overall sky-blue colour.
The distinguishing feature of aromatic cedar is its pleasant aroma, which is due to the presence of natural oils, known as thujaplicins, within the wood. These oils produce a vapour that acts as a repellent to moths, cockroaches, mildew, and other insects. This makes aromatic cedar a popular choice for building closets, clothing chests, and other sealed-off furniture where fabrics may be stored. The wood is also lightweight, durable, and resistant to rot and decay, making it suitable for various indoor and outdoor applications.
Aromatic cedar is commonly used in furniture, closets, and storage to repel insects and keep clothes and linens smelling fresh. Its moisture-wicking properties help protect belongings from mould and mildew, making it ideal for humid climates. Additionally, its aesthetic appeal, with its rich, reddish-brown colour and distinct grain pattern, adds to its popularity in various projects.
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Its aroma comes from natural oils
Aromatic cedar, or Juniperus Virginiana, is known for its fragrant scent, which comes from natural oils found within the wood called thujaplicins. These oils produce a vapour that acts as a repellent to moths, cockroaches, mildew, and other insects. The aroma of aromatic cedar is so distinctive that it is often used to mask other scents, such as in soap or perfume.
The scent of aromatic cedar is not permanent and will dissipate over time. This is because the volatile compounds that create the scent will eventually evaporate. However, there are a few ways to restore the aroma. One method is to expose new wood by sanding or scraping the surface. This releases the aromatic oils locked within the wood, enhancing its fragrance. Another way to restore the scent is by using cedar oil, which can be extracted from the wood or purchased as a concentrated oil and applied to other types of wood.
The strength of the aroma can vary depending on the species of cedar. For example, Spanish Cedar is not a true cedar but is related to mahogany and has a very strong scent. Tennessee Red Cedar is also known for its potent fragrance. In contrast, Western Red Cedar has a milder aroma. Additionally, the age of the wood can impact the intensity of the scent. Older, more seasoned cedar may have a more subtle fragrance than fresh-cut cedar.
It's important to note that while the aroma of aromatic cedar is pleasant for humans, it can be toxic to other animals in concentrated amounts. The dust produced by sanding or working with cedar can also be an allergen for some people.
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The aroma repels moths and other insects
Aromatic cedar, also known as Eastern red cedar, is a type of wood that comes from the juniper tree. It is known for its fragrant scent, which is derived from natural oils called thujaplicins found within the wood. These oils produce a vapour that acts as a repellent to moths and other insects when used in a tightly sealed space. The scent of cedarwood is one of nature's most fragrant pesticides, and its use in insect repellent dates back to Ancient Greece.
The oil from cedar trees, particularly the species Cedrus atlantica, repels clothes moths from laying their eggs in wool and other fabrics. The oil is composed of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, which give off a persistent aroma. With up to 70% of the oils in cedar wood containing these compounds, it is believed that this is the reason most cedar species are insect-repellent.
The aroma of aromatic cedar is particularly effective in repelling moths and their larvae. The scent of the cedarwood masks the smell of keratin, which is what attracts moths in the first place. By using aromatic cedar in enclosed spaces, such as closets, clothing chests, and other sealed-off furniture, you can create a natural barrier that protects your wool and silk fabrics from moth damage.
In addition to its insect-repelling properties, aromatic cedar also absorbs odours, leaving your belongings smelling fresh. Its moisture-wicking properties help prevent mould and mildew, making it ideal for use in humid climates or areas prone to moisture.
While aromatic cedar is an effective repellent, it is important to note that it does not deter or kill mature larvae, adult moths, or their eggs. Therefore, it should be used as a preventative measure rather than a solution for an ongoing moth infestation. Additionally, the scent of cedarwood will dissipate over time, and you may need to reapply cedar oil or sand down the wood to restore its potency.
Aromatic cedar is a natural and safer alternative to chemical insecticides and toxic mothballs. By using this fragrant wood, you can protect your clothing and valuables from insect damage while also enjoying its pleasant, spicy aroma.
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It is used to make furniture and for storage
Aromatic cedar, also known as eastern red cedar, is widely used in furniture making and storage solutions. Its distinctive aroma, derived from natural oils, is what makes it so popular for these applications.
Aromatic cedar is the wood of choice for building closets, clothing chests, and other sealed-off furniture where wool and silk fabrics may be stored. Its scent acts as a repellent to moths and other insects, protecting fabrics from damage. However, it is important to note that aromatic cedar is not a solution for an existing moth infestation. The vapour produced by the wood does not deter or kill mature larvae, adult moths, or their eggs.
The wood is lightweight, soft, and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for woodworkers. It is often left unstained and unvarnished to allow its natural aroma to shine through. The wood's oils can also soften stains and sealants, making them sticky.
Aromatic cedar is particularly well-suited for small, contained projects like clothing chests and drawers. Its pleasant aroma, insect-repellent properties, and absorbency of odours make it ideal for storing fabrics and keeping them fresh.
In addition to its use in furniture and storage, aromatic cedar is also commonly used for building fence posts and pencils.
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The aroma can be restored by sanding the surface
The aroma of aromatic cedar is well-loved and sought after. The scent is derived from the natural oils, thujaplicins, found within the wood. Over time, the smell of aromatic cedar can fade. This is due to the evaporation and oxidation of the wood's oils. However, there is a simple solution to restore its fresh fragrance: sanding.
Sanding the surface of aromatic cedar is an effective way to revive its aroma. By gently sanding the wood, you can release the aromatic oils trapped within. This technique exposes fresh wood, allowing its pleasant scent to permeate the air once more. The process is straightforward and can be performed by anyone seeking to restore their aromatic cedar items.
The frequency of sanding will depend on your preference for scent strength and the condition of the wood. For those who enjoy a potent aroma, more frequent sanding may be desirable. Additionally, aromatic cedar that is regularly exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures may require sanding more often, as the wood is prone to drying out and losing its natural oils.
It is worth noting that while sanding is an excellent method for restoring the fragrance, it may not be a permanent solution. The scent released by sanding may not last as long as the initial aroma of freshly milled aromatic cedar. Nonetheless, sanding is a quick and easy way to bring back the delightful smell of this unique wood.
In conclusion, if you own aromatic cedar furniture, closets, or storage items, and wish to restore their distinctive fragrance, sanding is a simple and effective solution. By gently sanding the surface, you can unlock the aromatic oils within the wood, releasing its signature scent once more. So, if you're missing the smell of your aromatic cedar, don't hesitate to give it a light sanding and enjoy the restored fragrance.
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Frequently asked questions
Aromatic cedar loses its scent and insect-repelling properties after a year or two. Sanding the surface of the wood can help restore its aroma.
Avoid using any stain, paint, or finish on the wood, as this can seal in and negate its scent and insect-repelling properties. Keep the wood clean and dust-free, and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Yes, the natural oils in aromatic cedar, known as thujaplicins, act as a repellent to moths, cockroaches, silverfish, and other insects. However, it is most effective in tightly sealed spaces and does not deter or kill mature larvae, adult moths, or their eggs.
