The scent of fresh pine fills the holiday season with joy. However, this evergreen tree is not only a mood booster. Pine is full of chemical compounds that have a positive effect on the human body. Pine oil has antiseptic, expectorant, analgesic, bactericidal, warming, anti-infective, and gently stimulating properties.
Pine essential oil , with its powerful healing properties and intense resinous aroma, is obtained from the needles, cones, and young twigs of the Pinus Sylvestris (Scots pine) tree. The highest quality oils are obtained from plants from northern Europe and Asia.
Extract for what hurts
In 1940, French scientist Jacques Masquelier discovered that pine bark and needles contained vitamin C. Researchers followed up on his theory and learned that pine is rich in beneficial antioxidants.
Pine is known for its ability to alleviate circulatory problems, knee pain, and menstrual cramps. It may even improve memory in old age.
Pine oil has warming properties, so it can be used to relieve rheumatic pain and arthritis. Literature indicates that pine oil has a cleansing effect on the kidneys. It is beneficial for bladder and liver inflammation, as well as prostate problems. It also alleviates symptoms of fatigue and nervous exhaustion and boosts the body's immune system.
Stress relief
In Japan, shinrin-yoku (meaning "absorbing the forest atmosphere"), a therapeutic forest walk, is practiced. This practice has been observed for its stress-relieving properties. In one study, researchers at Kyoto University sent 498 healthy volunteers on two 15-minute walks through the forest. They compared the results of these walks with a day without walking. Participants rated their mood using a standard psychological scale. The experiment showed that hostility and depression significantly decreased after the walk. Moreover, the more stressed someone was at the beginning of the study, the more relaxed they felt after the walk.
Most of us don't have access to the ancient Japanese pine forests, so it's worth stocking up on essential oils. Traditional aromatherapy recommends these oils for fatigue, especially mental fatigue, to calm emotional tension and relieve stress. Simply place a few drops on a pillow or tissue and inhale deeply and slowly.
For bronchitis
Pine oil has primarily antiseptic and expectorant properties. For health purposes, it is used to treat upper respiratory tract and sinus infections. It quickly and effectively releases bronchial secretions. Steam inhalations are effective for runny noses, colds, and sore throats.
Massage for sore muscles
A mixture of a few drops of pine oil and up to two tablespoons of vegetable oil is used to relieve muscle ailments. However, be careful not to use Scots pine oil for this purpose, as it can irritate the skin.
Additionally, pine oil is said to have a beneficial effect in the fight against cellulite, as it perfectly softens the skin.
Air aromatization
Due to its fresh and pleasant scent, pine oil is used as a natural air freshener.
Contraindications
Pine oil should not be used by people with asthma or whooping cough. Pregnant women and children should consult a healthcare professional before using the oil.
