Oil of cedar is a precious substance which the ancient peoples used to embalm dead bodies. It was also once used to coat books to preserve them from insects and damp. The oil is obtained by distilling it from the African cedar and is an ‘essential’ oil, that is one that gives a plant, flower of fruit its distinctive odor or flavor. These oils are used for the scenting of flavoring of numerous products, such as perfumes, cosmetics and soaps.

The African cedar grows in the north of that continent, especially on the Atlas Mountains. It is a very imposing conifer that bears many leaves and grows to a height of more than 40 meters. It closely resembles the more famous cedar of Lebanon which was also highly prized by the ancient peoples.

Cedarwood is soft and rich in resin. It can be worked easily and is used extensively in building and furniture-making.