Comparative Chemical and Biological Analysis of Wood and Tar Essential Oils from Cedrus atlantica and Juniperus oxycedrus in Morocco

Abstract

Juniperus oxycedrus, a member of the Cupressaceae family, is indigenous to southern Europe and the Mediterranean basin, 4,[15][16][17][18] flourishing at altitudes between 1700 and 3000 meters in stony terrains. 3,19 Renowned for its ecological significance, Juniperus oxycedrus contributes to the regional economy through diverse applications, including firewood, natural ornamentation, and medicinal purposes. Its essential oil, esteemed for its multifaceted properties, such as antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, has found utility in various domains 3,19 , albeit recent concerns have arisen regarding its association with poisoning incidents. [20][21][22][23][24][25] Cedrus atlantica, family Pinaceae, is an endemic Moroccan species prized for its essential oil possessing antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. 26,27,[36][37][38][39][40][41][42][28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35] Widely utilized in construction due to its durability. 30 Cedarwood also holds significance in Morocco's traditional therapeutic practices, 43 where cedar wood tar forms an integral part of the Magico-medical system, 44 utilized for treating skin conditions and eliminating parasites in animals. 32 These traditional forest species, deeply rooted in folk medicine, intrigue researchers for their potential applications. 43,45 This study presents a comparative analysis of the biological and antioxidant properties of wood tar essential oils extracted from Juniperus oxycedrus and Cedrus atlantica, using both lab-produced and artisanal samples. By exploring the composition and potential of these oils, the study aims to uncover similarities or distinctions between the two species, thereby contributing novel insights into their utility and applications in various fields.