Can cedar oil be used for pest control?

Cedar oil is sometimes effective for pest control, depending on the garden and the type of pests. Some gardeners claim it works, and some claim it does not.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency recognizes cedar oil as a low-risk pesticide. The oil's pungent odor keeps insects at bay, and people have used cedar in many different forms, such as wood and sawdust, to keep insects away for many years. Some claim cedar oil reduces the number of aphids, thrips and scales in a given garden and also works against cucumber beetles; however, regular application is necessary for cedar oil to work properly. Cedar oil derives from a few kinds of juniper and cypress trees. The red cedar tree is its most common source.