Health Benefits of Deodar (Himalayan Cedar)

What is Deodar?

Deodar is a tall, evergreen coniferous tree that can grow from 4,921 feet to 10,499 feet above sea level. The Botanical Name of Deodar Cedar is Cedrus Deodara which is one of the thickest trees belonging to Pinaceae family.

Deodar Tree is the National Tree of Pakistan. From 131 feet to 164 feet in height, this dense tree is native to Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, eastern Afghanistan, Uttarakhand, northern Pakistan, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, western Nepal, Darjeeling, and southwestern Tibet.

The medicinal tree has the Sanskrit name Devadaru, in which Dev means “Divine/Godly” and Daru means “Tree“. And the overall meaning for Devadaru is “Wood of Gods“.

Complete descriptions of this tree, as well as its medical references, are found in the Ayurvedic works of Carakasamhita and Susrutasamhita.

Used in Ayurvedic medicine for many years in India, this plant has the common names of Deodar Cedar, Himalayan Cedar, Deodar, Devdar, Devadar, Devadaru.

The tree has drooping branchlets and level branches with trunks of 197 feet and 10 feet in diameter and has a conical crown. 

This medicinal plant has sharp leaves ranging from 0.98 inches to 1.97 inches long and also has long shoots that separate.

20-30 dense clusters on short shoots vary from bright green to glossy blue-green.

The male cones are 1.6 to 2.4 inches long and release their pollen in the fall season. Next, its barrel-shaped female cones are 2.8–5.1 inches long, which shed their seeds as they mature.

All parts of the Cedrus Deodara tree has the sacred name ‘Wood of God’, has various medicinal properties and is still used today to treat different types of diseases.

Uses of Deodar (Devadaru) / Himalayan Cedar

• Most of the medical literature written in the 7th century mentioned that Deodhar was used to treat major viral fevers.
• Due to the high resistance traits in Deodhar, they are greatly helpful in treating various problems like asthma, neurological disorders, fever, headache, injuries, arthritis, pruritus.
• They play an important role in clearing the mucus trapped in the trachea thus it relieves cough and provides balanced breathing.
• Due to their antispasmodic activity, they stimulate the airways and reduce the effects of asthma.
• In addition to managing the airways, it effectively controls blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion. So Deodhar is also beneficial for diabetics.
• It relaxes the function of brain and helps to prevent insomnia, stress, fatigue, and tiredness.
• Deodhar oil obtained from these trees has diaphoretic properties so they focus on increasing sweating and effectively reducing fever.
• Especially since they have anti-inflammatory properties, it effectively treats all problems including inflammation related to arthritis and inflammation caused by injuries.
• Due to the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of the Deodhar plant, its oil can be used as an excellent remedy for wounds and bleeding. These help to speed up the healing process.
• The leaves of this plant have antifungal properties, so applying the leaf paste on the skin can easily prevent skin infections and rashes.

15 Proven Health Benefits of Deodar / Devadari / Devadaru / Himalayan Cedar

Containing flavonoids, glycosides, and terpenoids as its most important components, the Cedrus Deodara herb has the potential to cure all ailments ranging from common ailments to chronic ailments.

That is why Deodar plants have been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine since ancient times. Moreover, all the parts of this tree such as heartwood, leaves, bark, oil, resin, etc. have various types of medicinal benefits and antiseptic properties which is why they are featured in the literature of ancient times.

Uses and Benefits of Deodar:

1. High in Antioxidant

All parts of the Cedrus Deodara tree contain high levels of antioxidants, which strengthen the body’s immune system and fight against most of the diseases.

However,

“The powder made from the heartwood of the Deodar tree has a higher antioxidant value than other parts, which protects the nervous and brain systems from damage caused by free radicals.”

In addition, the antioxidants in the essential oil of this plant are greatly involved in skincare. That is, they increase the tone of the skin, tighten the skin tissue, and lighten the skin.

2. Acts as Natural Sedation Medicine

The essential oil extracted from the bark of the deodar plant has soothing and sedative effects, effectively calming the brain and nervous system. Deodar oil can be taken as a medicine or massaged externally to manage anxiety, insomnia, fear, depression, and depression.

This method is widely recommended in aromatherapy. In the brain, it is involved in the process of converting the serotonin chemical known as a happy chemical into melatonin chemical, which in turn relaxes the nerves and muscles of the body.

“Deodar is widely used in aromatherapy to increase the sense of security, improve self-esteem, and relieve stress”.

Inscriptions say that in ancient times many sages and rishis used to sit and meditate under the Cedrus Deodara tree as all the parts of the deodar trees have medicinal properties and increase their calming ability.

3. Deodar Cures Epilepsy & Neurological Disorders

Epilepsy is one of the most common disorders of the central nervous system, affecting brain function and causing sensations, seizures, and loss of awareness. Cedrus Deodara extract has the property of significantly reducing the nature of epilepsy and its effects and curing it over time.

Furthermore, the alcoholic extract derived from the hardwood of this medicinal plant greatly helps to regulate the levels of Kapha found in the nervous system, thereby providing the body with antidepressant properties.

“Himalayan Cedar oil is very helpful in balancing the Vata dosha which is the main cause of various neurological disorders.”

A study of Deodar in rats showed that its oil reduced the risk of tonic-clonic seizures in Pentylenetetrazole (a drug mainly utilized as a respiratory and circulatory stimulant).

More so, the same study showed a significant reduction in the duration of the tonic extensor phase in MEZ (Maximal Electro Shock). Deodar oil is used to treat all nerve-related problems including stroke, nerve pain.

4. Effectively Treats Skin Disease & Wounds

The oil extracted from the Deodar plant known as Himalayan Cedar is rich in anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, this oil can be applied topically to the affected areas to treat wounds and pruritus.

Its oil contains two types of chemical compounds called Benzyl Benzoate and OCD, which kill active acaricides and effectively kill parasites and germs. In addition, oil is effective against Sarcoptes skin infections, including psoriasis, scabies, and eczema.

Deodar oil is not only for external use but also for cleansing the blood by using it in recommended doses internally. Deodar thus taken internally acts as a natural blood purifier and cures skin related problems.

Mix Deodar, Guggulu, and Turmeric well and apply the paste to intolerant swellings. This combination is also recommended for use in the treatment of leprosy, and fungal skin infections.

Cedrus Deodara oil is used as a commercial insecticide against Pulse Beetles and Housefly. Deodar plant oil is used internally and externally as medicine for people suffering from syphilis.

“Deodar oil is effective in controlling the amount of excess sebum secreted by the sebaceous glands of the skin and easily prevents acne.”

Also for face care 2 drops Deodar oil is mixed with 1 ml of almond oil and massaged.

5. Relieves Gastro-Intestinal Disease

The unique organic compounds naturally occurring in the Cedrus Deodara plant put an end to the constipation problem by effectively enhancing the peristaltic movements of the intestine, i.e. allowing the stool to be completely expelled.

In this way, problems like constipation, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, intestinal contractions, etc. are avoided. “Ama” is a type of toxin that forms in the colon as a result of irregular food digestion.

This toxin disrupts the digestive process by clogging the subtle channels and captivates an imbalance of doshas that can lead to dangerous diseases. Deodar plays an important role in preventing the formation of such harmful toxin Ama.

 So, the oil of this herb is widely used in the treatment of hemorrhoids and related blood clots. The inner bark of the Cedrus Deodara is finely crushed and the decoction made from its powder is used to treat chronic diarrhea and acute diarrhea.

6. Rectifies Arthritis

Arthritis is caused by the severity of the maximum Vata that accumulates in the body, causing swelling, pain, and difficulty in movement. Cedrus Deodara tree extract (turbid liquid) has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is used as the main medicine to treat arthritis.

The extract also has the property of balancing the Vata and provides relief for body aches and joint pains caused by arthritis.

Heartwood oil, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, inhibits leukotriene synthesis and helps stabilize mast cells. In addition, Deodar can help relieve erections in cervical spondylosis.

7. Treats Cough

Cold-related cough is usually caused by the accumulation of mucus in the airways, a condition known in Ayurveda as Kapha disorder.

Deodar helps to reduce cough by effectively removing mucus from the airways, and it is also widely recommended in the treatment of tuberculosis. Consumption of the mixture of Deodar powder and hot water can also cure cough.

Mix 1 drop of Davana oil with 1 drop of Cedarwood oil in warm water and inhale its vapor to expel mucus and Kapha from the trachea. Thus inhalation of vapor cures sinusitis, colds, fever, and cough.

Also Read: 10 Best Traditional Herbs That Help Treat Cold 

8. Natural Remedy for Asthma

Himachalol found in cedarwood oil is a natural substance and extractive. Cedrus Deodara is the most important ingredient in vegetable oil which treats asthma and shortness of breath due to its anti-allergic properties.

Deodar is used to treat hiccups, sinusitis, and runny nose, as they contain allergens. In general, asthma is caused by the major defects of Vata and Kapha, which, when exacerbated, have a variety of effects.

Vata creates a blockage in the airways associated with Kapha Dosha and makes it difficult to breathe. According to Ayurveda, this condition is called “Swas Roga“. Deodar balances the Vata and Kapha and expels excess mucus from the lungs. Asthma symptoms are cured by this process.

Also Read: 10 Best Herbs for Asthma

9. Controls Fever

“Deodar is one of the important herbs in traditional medicine which treats viral fever and acute fevers”.

 The inner bark of the deodar tree should be finely powdered, and prepare decoction by boiling this bark powder in water or else make kashayam by adding some other herbal products with deodar bark powder. To rejuvenate the body, the deodar herbal drink is the best choice. 

Also Read: 10 Incredible Natural Herbs to Cure Fever

10. Mitigates Blood Disorders

“Intake of Deodar bark powder (either in the form of powder or capsule) removes the Toxins and impurities in the body”.

In addition, taking it internally can effectively improve liver function. Deodar is also an excellent remedy for vascular disorders, excessive bleeding, and infections in the blood such as sepsis.

11. Manages Urinary Tract Problems

Urinary tract problems known as Purpura and Dysuria cause urinary urgency and frequency, which can lead to chronic kidney failure.

Devadarvarishta and Chandraprabha vati made from Deodar herbal plants are also used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat these urinary tract disorders. Methods of preventing urinary tract infections using Deodar and dealing with their effects are written in detail in the ancient medical literature known as Prameha.

“Kashyam made from the bark of the Himalayan Cedar tree is recommended as the best medicine for painful urination”.

Also Read: 10 Best Herbs to Cure Urinary Problems

12. Alleviates Backache

Topical formulas made with Deodar are very helpful in treating back pain after childbirth and during menstruation. In addition, its juice is taken orally to relieve back pain and strengthen the spinal cord.

13. A Good Utero-Tonic

The uterus is strengthened and its health is improved when the Himalayan cedar bark’s extract is taken regularly with the proper advice. When taking Deodar products internally, some of the active compounds present in it stimulate the release of eggs from the ovary.

This spontaneous process can effectively treat uterine dysfunction, Amenorrhoea, Leucorrhoea, Anovulation, Dysmenorrhea, etc.

14. Aids to Control Obesity

Unhealthy eating habits and delicate lifestyles are the main reasons for weight gain, which can lead to poor digestion and various diseases.

“Deodar wood helps to reduce obesity by expelling excess fat and triglycerides deposited in the body.”

Also, the antioxidants in Himalayan Cedar help greatly in reducing the toxin called Ama and improving the metabolism. All these processes are carried out by their digestive properties called Pachan and appetizer properties called Deepan.

15. Treats Hair Loss / Alopecia

Alopecia areata is a term used to describe the circular baldness or occurrence of sudden hair loss in both men and women. In this case, the hair follicles start out as considerable small patches and then they cause more hair loss and the formation of circular bald patches.

“Deodar oil is a good natural medicine to cure alopecia and control hair loss. This oil cures scalp irritation, excessive dandruff, hair loss, etc. and promotes healthy hair growth.”

In general, fungal infections are a major cause of hair loss problems. Deodar oil has excellent anti-fungal properties and is used as an ingredient in various hair growth oils.

Also Read: 10 Best Natural Herbs for Hair Growth and Thickness

Importance of Deodar (or) Himalayan Cedar

• The Inner core of the wood from Deodar is more aromatic, and it’s used to make Incense sticks.
• The oil extracted from the tree’s inner wood is used as an insect repellent on the feet of camels, horses, lambs, and other kettles.
• The Deodar tree is also known as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens. The fruits are also widely used for decorative purposes.
• The Himalayan cedar tree has excellent demand as a building material because of its rot-resistant character, durability, and close grain, taking a high polish.
• This tree is used for constructing boat houses, religious temples, and landscaping around temples historically. It has also been extensively used to build bridges, barracks, canals, public buildings, and railway cars.
• Meats and Foodgrains like wheat and oats are stored and preserved in rooms made of deodar wood or in the vessels made of deodar due to anti-fungal and insect repellent properties.
• The antifungal properties of Deodar cedar wood can control fungal infection in spices during storage.
• Its application also includes floor polishes, perfumes, soaps, household sprays, insecticides, and microscope work as a cleaning oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What Does Ayurveda Say About Devadaru Powder? 

A: Devadaru powder has a lot of beneficial supplements one among such is it promotes respiratory health. It helps to boost the lungs function by breaking down the occasional buildup of wastes and produces the clear respiratory tract. Breathing is an important activity for maintaing a proper health, by consuming Devadaru powder regulary the natural functioning of lungs will be boosted up.

The blood circulation also flows perfectly in the body by the intake of Devadaru. The natural photochemical properties removes the toxins and purifies the blood. If the blood circulation is normal then there is nothing to worry. Finally, the nervous system plays an important role in human body, such system can be worked out properly with the help of devadaru powder. It also promotes urinary health, skin health, as well as menstrual health.

Q: What Should You Take Devadaru Powder With?

A: Nothing tragical just take warm water and mix a fine quantity of devadaru powder to consume.

It’s also recommended to consume Devadaru powder with Anupana. It works effectively, also the benefits of herbs remains in the body for a long time.

Q : Which Natural Phytonutrients are Found Inside Devadaru Powder?

A : Devadaru powder is a complete package of essential Vitamins, Proteins, Flavonoids, Alkaloids, Saponins, Glycosides, Essential oils. The major benefits of natural phytonutrients is promoting the respiratory health, regulating the blood circulation and maintaining the blood sugar levels.

Q : How long do deodar cedars live?

A: Devdar (Cedrus deodara), also called Deodar cedar, Devadara, Devadarm , Himalayan cedar, Beyar,is an amazing Ayurvedic herb.Cedrus Deodara is vastly found in the north-west Himalayas from Kashmir to Mussoorie. It grows at altitudes of 1,500–3,200 m (5,000–10,000 ft.). These evergreen trees may live for 1000 years.

Q : What is the Suggested Use of Devadaru?

A: It’s recommended to take ⅛ – ¼ teaspoon of Devadaru powder with warm water, you can consume it once or twice a day. Pregnant women and kids must get proper advice from physician before the intake of mix.