If you’ve ever wondered whether floral and woodsy can mix, this blend will surprise you.
Yes, lavender and cedarwood essential oils create a balanced, calming scent that combines floral freshness with earthy depth.
I first tried lavender and cedarwood in a homemade roller blend—and I couldn’t stop smelling my wrist.
The floral top notes hit first, then the warm, woody tones of cedar settled in.
It became my go-to scent for winding down. This combo works because opposites attract in the world of scent.
Do Lavender and Cedarwood Essential Oils Blend Well Aromatically?
You might not expect them to match—but they do.
Lavender’s light floral aroma blends beautifully with cedarwood’s warm, earthy notes, creating a relaxing and versatile scent.
Cedarwood is often used as a base note in perfumery1.
It helps lavender last longer on the skin or in a diffuser. While lavender lifts the mood, cedarwood grounds it.
Together, they form a fragrance that feels both peaceful and rich.
I use them together in diffusers, pillow sprays, and bath oils, and I always get compliments when guests walk into the room.
What Are the Scent Profiles of Lavender and Cedarwood Oils Individually?
To understand their blend, know their basics.
Lavender is soft, floral, and herbaceous. Cedarwood is woody, earthy, and slightly sweet.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is steam-distilled2 and smells clean, fresh, and calming. It’s often used for sleep and relaxation.
Cedarwood (often Juniperus virginiana or Cedrus atlantica) smells like a forest—deep, dry, and grounding. It’s popular for stress relief and emotional balance3.
Together, they smell like a walk through a blooming garden surrounded by trees.
How Does the Combination of Floral Lavender and Woody Cedarwood Create a Balanced Fragrance?
Balance comes from contrast—and this pair has it.
Lavender brightens and softens the deeper tones of cedarwood, while cedarwood anchors lavender’s airy floral notes.
It’s like mixing sun and shade. The blend becomes round, soft, and not too sweet.
It appeals to those who want something comforting without being overpowering.
This harmony makes it great for shared spaces, like bedrooms or living rooms, where everyone can enjoy it.
What Benefits Can You Expect from Blending Lavender and Cedarwood Oils?
It’s not just about smelling nice—it helps you feel better too.
The blend promotes relaxation, eases stress, supports sleep, and can improve skin and scalp health when applied topically.
Both oils are known for calming effects4. When I use them before bed, I fall asleep faster.
When I apply them during a stressful day, I breathe more easily.
The combo may also soothe inflammation and reduce itching5 when mixed with a carrier oil.
It’s gentle enough for everyday use, yet powerful enough to make a difference.
How Can Lavender and Cedarwood Blends Be Used in Aromatherapy?
You don’t need a lab—just a few drops and a plan.
You can use this blend in diffusers, bath oils, roll-ons, massage oils, or body sprays to enjoy its soothing effects.
Here are some ways I use it:
- Diffuser: 3 drops lavender, 2 drops cedarwood
- Roll-on: 10 ml roller bottle with 2 drops each oil, topped with fractionated coconut oil
- Bath soak: Mix oils with Epsom salt6 before adding to water
- Massage blend: Combine with almond oil for a relaxing rub
The scent lingers long after use, making it perfect for nighttime routines or moments when you need calm.
What Are Some Popular Recipes or Ratios for Mixing Lavender and Cedarwood Oils?
A good scent needs the right mix.
The most common ratio is 3 drops lavender to 2 drops cedarwood for a balanced, pleasing blend.
Here’s one of my favorite diffuser recipes:
- 3 drops lavender
- 2 drops cedarwood
- 1 drop sweet orange (optional for brightness)
Or try this bedtime roll-on:
- 2 drops lavender
- 2 drops cedarwood
- Fill rest of 10 ml bottle with jojoba oil
You can tweak ratios to suit your nose—some prefer more wood, others more flower.
Can Lavender and Cedarwood Essential Oils Be Used Together in Skincare or Haircare?
This duo isn’t just for scent—it’s for skin and scalp too.
Yes, when diluted, the blend can calm irritated skin, support healthy hair, and reduce scalp itchiness.
Lavender soothes inflammation, while cedarwood may support hair growth and reduce dandruff7. I use the mix in my homemade scalp serum:
- 1 tablespoon argan oil
- 2 drops lavender
- 2 drops cedarwood
- Massage into scalp before shower
Always do a patch test first. Essential oils are strong, even when natural.
How Does the Scent of Cedarwood Complement Lavender in Diffusers or Bath Blends?
Think of it as adding bass to a melody.
Cedarwood’s base note steadies lavender’s high floral tones, creating a deeper, longer-lasting aroma.
In a diffuser, cedarwood prevents the lavender from fading too quickly. In the bath, it rounds out the fragrance so it’s not too sharp.
This makes the blend great for quiet evenings, meditation, or just turning your bathroom into a spa.
Are There Any Cautions When Blending Lavender and Cedarwood Oils?
Even gentle oils need care.
Always dilute before topical use, and patch test to avoid reactions. Some people may be sensitive to either oil.
I once used undiluted cedarwood and noticed dryness. Now I always mix with carrier oils.
Also, keep oils away from eyes and don’t ingest unless directed by a trained expert.
Store your blend in a dark glass bottle, away from light and heat, to preserve its scent.
Conclusion
Lavender and cedarwood smell great together. Their blend is calming, grounding, and perfect for everyday use in diffusers, skincare, and relaxation rituals.
Footnotes:
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Understand how base notes help anchor and extend fragrance in essential oil blends ↩
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Learn how steam distillation affects lavender oil purity and aroma ↩
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See how cedarwood oil supports mood and emotional health ↩
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Discover research on lavender and cedarwood’s effects on anxiety and sleep ↩
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Find evidence supporting these oils’ anti-inflammatory and soothing skin properties ↩
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Understand how Epsom salts enhance bath oil absorption and relaxation ↩
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Read about cedarwood oil’s benefits for scalp health and hair regrowth ↩