
The Mood-Enhancing Qualities of Osmanthus and Cedarwood
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When crafting fragrances, each ingredient can be thought of as part of a painter’s palette, with every note adding its own nuance. Two evocative and impactful colors in this composition are osmanthus and cedarwood - not just for their sensory appeal, but for the surprising ways they influence mood and wellbeing.
Osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans) is a fragrant flower with a rich heritage. Known as the “sweet olive” or “fragrant tea olive,” its flowers have been cherished for centuries in tea blends and rituals, symbolizing love and prosperity. Its aroma is a complex harmony of apricot, peach, and a subtle leathery warmth - a scent that feels both delicate and grounding.
Research supports the mood-enhancing properties of osmanthus. Inhalation of the essential oil has been shown to reduce physiological markers of stress, including heart rate and blood pressure, while promoting relaxation. This calming effect has been attributed to its interaction with the parasympathetic nervous system, aiding in emotional balance and reducing anxiety (Tsuji et al., 2024).
Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) is celebrated for its ability to promote relaxation and grounding. Its warm, woody, and slightly smoky scent is known to create a sense of stability and calm, effects linked to its high concentration of sesquiterpenes (naturally occurring hydrocarbons in essential oils). These compounds are believed to encourage the release of serotonin and melatonin, hormones that regulate mood and sleep, while also offering anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties.
Cedarwood has been widely studied for its relaxing effects and is commonly used in aromatherapy to foster a grounding environment. Cedarwood lends depth and character to fragrances, complementing lighter floral notes like osmanthus. Cedarwood oil may help lower blood pressure and breathing rates, promoting calmness and improving sleep (WebMD, n.d.). Additionally, research suggests that the use of essential oils like cedarwood, engages the limbic system to reduce stress and create emotional balance (Cleveland Clinic, 2023).
Together, osmanthus and cedarwood create a balance of light and depth. Osmanthus’s fruity-floral brightness offsets cedarwood’s rich, grounding warmth, resulting in a blend that is both uplifting and stabilizing. It’s more than just a pleasant pairing; it’s an olfactory experience that can subtly shift your mood and provide a sense of calm.
These two ingredients are featured in Taller Than Trees, where their unique qualities come together to create a fragrance that is both approachable and nuanced. It’s a perfect companion for moments when a sense of grounding or clarity is needed.
In a world that can feel overwhelming, osmanthus and cedarwood demonstrate that fragrance is more than a luxury - it’s a tool for connection, grounding, and even joy.
Image Credit: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Open Access Collection. Qing Dynasty embroidery, 'Rabbit Gazing at the Moon and Stars Besides a Blossoming Osmanthus, Lingzhi Fungus, and Autumn Leaves.' (Accession Number: 70091)
References:
Tsuji, A., et al. (2024). Inhalation of O. fragrans essential oil and its effect on physiological stress markers. Journal of Aromatherapy and Stress Relief, 2590157524001913.
WebMD. (n.d.). Cedarwood Essential Oil: Benefits, Risks, and Uses. WebMD.
Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Can Aromatherapy With Essential Oils Provide Stress Relief? Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials.