At Hangar South, we’re passionate about working with natural materials, especially those close to our hearts—and land. One of our favorite ingredients comes directly from our property in the Eastern Townships: cedar leaves and bark. These materials not only connect us to nature but also inspire many of our creations.
Sustainable Harvesting from Our Land
The Eastern Townships, where our gardens are nestled, are rich with the iconic Eastern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis). This tree has a deep-rooted history in traditional wellness and has been used for centuries by Indigenous communities for its healing properties. For us, it represents strength, protection, and a connection to the natural environment that we hold dear.
We take great care in harvesting the cedar sustainably. We collect fallen bark and carefully prune leaves, ensuring that the trees remain healthy and vibrant. By respecting the natural growth cycle of the cedar, we’re able to cultivate a sustainable practice that allows us to continue using these precious materials for years to come.
Transforming Cedar into Scented Creations
Our process begins with carefully drying and curing the cedar bark and leaves. Once prepared, these materials become the core of some of our most unique products—ranging from candles to perfumes and oils.
Cedar in Candles
In our candles, the cedar leaves and bark serve both as a scent and a symbol of our connection to the earth. The natural oils within the cedar release a warm, woodsy aroma when burned, filling your space with the comforting scent of the forest. The cedar’s unique fragrance is earthy, slightly sweet, and grounding—perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere in your home. We infuse these natural elements into our wax blends, capturing their essence through slow-burning candles that carry the pure, undiluted scent of the forest.
Cedar in Perfumes
In our perfumes, cedar plays a vital role as a base note. It adds depth and complexity to our blends, grounding the lighter top notes and creating a long-lasting fragrance that evolves on the skin. Cedar’s warm, slightly resinous character adds a natural, earthy richness to our perfume compositions. Its distinctive scent pairs beautifully with other plant-based ingredients, allowing us to create fragrances that feel intimate and personal, reminiscent of the peaceful stillness found in nature.
Cedar in Oils
In our wellness oils, cedar is a central ingredient for its therapeutic properties. Known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory qualities, cedar oil has been used in traditional medicine to calm the body and mind. We distill the oil from the bark and leaves using a low-heat extraction method that preserves the potency of its natural compounds. These oils can be used in a variety of ways, from massage to aromatherapy, providing a natural, earthy scent that promotes relaxation and mental clarity.
Honoring Nature’s Gifts
For us at Hangar South, using cedar is not just about creating beautiful products—it’s about honoring nature and fostering a deeper connection with our surroundings. By using materials sourced from our own land, we’re able to craft products that feel personal, authentic, and rooted in sustainability. Our cedar-infused creations reflect our respect for the environment and our desire to create high-quality, natural products that benefit both body and soul.
We invite you to explore our range of cedar-based candles, perfumes, and oils, each crafted with care and a deep connection to the earth. For us, these products are a way of sharing a piece of our land—and our passion—with you.
With love,
Mika & Dom
