Birch

      Betula Alba essential oil is from the leaf and buds of the Birch tree tree. The majority of the larger companies do not use the pure Birch botanical. in their products. Birch essential oil (Betula alba) is quite potent and should be used in minimal amounts with caution. Nature’s Spirit offers true Birch oil from the Adirondacks. True Birch essential oil is more expensive than what is commonly found in the commercial market. One reason for the higher expense is that the bark has to be macerated and soaked in warm water for a minimum of 10-12 hours before it can be distilled. The yield is low and the oil is more difficult technically to collect from the distillation because it is more dense than water and so the oil layer sinks to the bottom of the collection apparatus instead of floating on top like most essential oils.

       Ancients have utilized the bark from this tree for numerous purposes. I remember when I lived up North as a child, how I liked to peel the bark and use it for writing upon just like the Native Americans were known to do. The vital sap from Birch has been used for beverages such as Birch Beer and also in tisanes for medicinal remedies. The energies of this tree are said to be endowed with Protective Spirits.The vapors from the leaves and buds aid in reduction of toxins. 

        The essential oils held within its wood release attributes which are known to assist with reduction of swelling, ease of rheumatic and arthritic conditions, cleansing the kidneys, activating bladder functions and improving digestion. The astringent properties make it a useful component in scalp and hair tonics. To this day Birch essential oil is used to tone, ease cellulite, edema and obesity while promoting circulation. The antiseptic  qualities help to eliminate toxins and quicken healing. Birch is a good component in a blend for sore muscles and aching joints as an anti inflammatory agent that is known to ease rheumatism and arthritis. This intense plant oil offers  powerful pain relieving properties and quite an intense scent that goes along with it. The scent is pleasant like that of the familiar Wintergreen, yet it will dominate the formulation. Birch is not recommended to be used during pregnancy or by those who are taking allopathic medicine for the kidneys.