Pine essential oil is obtained by the steam-distillation of pine needles, twigs and cones from the common pine species Pinus sylvestris. Chemically, pine oil comprises mainly alpha-terpineol and other cyclic terpene alcohols. It may also contain terpene hydrocarbons, ethers and esters. The exact composition of pine oil is dependent on various factors such as the variety of pine from which it is produced and the parts of the tree that was used. Pine oil also has various natural therapeutic properties such as antimicrobial, balsamic, antiviral, antiseptic and many more.
It is naturally deodorizing, and antibacterial. It may also be used varyingly as a disinfectant, massage oil and an antiseptic. It is also used as an effective organic herbicide where its action is to modify the waxy cuticle of plants, resulting in desiccation. Since it has very low toxicity for humans, it is one of the safer essential oils, although some people are sensitive and can suffer from mild respiratory irritation when inhaling too much of this powerful oil. Pine has a long history as a remedy for many health conditions.
Pine essential oil is has been researched for its many benefits. This includes also the ability to clear respiratory issues. Its forest-like fresh scent is well-known from all household products. But above all that, it is also a great lung antiseptic. Explained below are some of the many health benefits of pine essential oil.
Skin Care
Pine essential oil can be used to treat various skin problems. Dermatologists often recommend the oil for treating problems like eczema, skin diseases, poor skin, scabies psoriasis, itching, pimples, sores, and fleas. It offers balanced, smooth, renewed and shiny skin and can also act as an antioxidant for the free radicals which can have such a negative impact on the health of your skin. Free radicals attack healthy skin cells and cause them to mutate, resulting in premature aging, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Pine essential oil can combat these negative effects.
Cosmetics
Pine essential oil also has a mesmerizing essence and gives a sweet aroma to the cosmetics in which it is used. It is also used to make perfumes and scented products. Additionally, pine essential oil can remove lice from the hair, and is widely used as massage oil and bath oil. That’s why you commonly see pine oil as a part of soaps and even cleaning products.
Injuries
Pine essential oil is antiseptic and is regularly used to treat boils, cuts, sports injuries, and Athletes’ Foot. This is not only due to its antiseptic properties, but also its anti-fungal characteristics. Fungal infections are some of the most dangerous and difficult conditions to treat, and if they become internal, they can even be deadly. Thus, using pine essential oil to cleanse your system of any fungal infections is a very good idea.
Stress Disorder
The health benefits of pine oil also include some emotional benefits. It creates an energized feeling and is effective for removing mental stress from any number of sources. It is also used medicinally for removing adrenal fatigue and refreshing your spirits since it is an excellent mood elevator. Regular massage with pine essential oil can give you mental clarity, and help to remove anxiety and nervous tension. Finally, it has been shown to be quite useful for people suffering from weakened concentration and memory loss. Although additional research is required in this area, it has been traditionally used for this purpose in many cultures.
Eliminate Bronchial Infections
Because of its infection-fighting abilities, Aromatherapist often use essential pine oil to help fight off lower respiratory infections such as bronchitis. An article published by The University of Maryland Medical Center reviewed research on pine oil’s effects on bronchitis and concluded that some research supports essential pine oil’s use in fighting off bronchial infections. Steam inhalations provide the best treatment method for this illness. Add a few drops of pine essential oil to two cups of steaming water and inhale the vapors. Just be sure to close your eyes so you don’t burn them.
Resistant to Redness and Swelling
Because of its powerful properties, pine oil resists redness and swelling for people with joint pain and discomfort. Used topically, it may also help relieve general muscular aches and pains. Add to a hot bath, or to a base massage oil, such as almond or coconut.