Birch trees were initially grown in Southeastern U.S. and Canada and later gained popularity across the globe. Today, they are widely extracted for their oils and is used in most countries for its detoxing effects and other health benefits that make birch oil unique among other essential oils.
What Is Birch Oil?
Birch essential oil is derived from two types of birch trees, the black birch and the white birch. Belonging to the Betulaceae family, the birch essential oil has a unique aroma that is minty and resembles the wintergreen essential oil.
Uses and Benefits of Birch Oil
Uses of Birch Oil
Birch oil has several uses such as the ones listed below:
- In aromatherapy
- As a tonic in winter to warm and stimulate the body
- As an expectorant to clear chest congestion
- In hair shampoos to promote hair growth
- To heal wounds and cuts
- In creams, ointments and soaps
Birch essential oil is attributed to many beneficial properties like antiseptic, analgesic, antidepressant, insecticide, germicide, diuretic, antiarthritic, antirheumatic, stimulant, tonic and disinfectant.
Benefits of Birch Oil
Listed below are some benefits of birch essential oil:
1. Regulates hormonal levels
Birch oil has the potential to stimulate the endocrine glands, which results in the secretion of enzymes that prevent hormonal imbalance. Hence, experts suggest the use of birch essential oil to stabilize hormonal levels in the body.
2. Anti-bacterial properties
Birch oil contains anti-bacterial properties and is rich in methyl salicylate and salicylic acid. These components are potent bactericides that protect the body from contracting bacterial infections.
3. Improves blood circulation
Improper blood circulation can lead to arthritis, rheumatism and edema. Birch oil is rich in all the essential nutrients that help promote blood circulation in the body and protect the body from the mentioned health conditions.
4. Maintains oral health
Maintaining oral health is important to prevent dental caries and infections. Birch essential oil contains analgesic, antiseptic, astringent and germicide properties that help maintain good health of teeth and gums.
5. Detoxifies the body
It is essential to keep eliminating the salts and toxins from the body to stay healthy. Birch oil is free of side effects and has detoxifying properties that help flush out toxins from the body.
6. Relieves headaches and migraines
Birch oil is loaded with analgesic properties and work as an immediate relief from pain. Those experiencing frequent headaches and migraines have claimed to benefit greatly from the use of birch essential oil.
7. Relieves symptoms of arthritis
Birch oil contains antiarthritic properties that stimulate the circulatory system and promote circulation. It provides instant relief to pain due to joint disorders and arthritis.
8. Increases urination
Birch essential oil is one of the best diuretics that can be used for the body as it is rich butylene and botulinal that has a diuretic effect on the body and increases urination.
This process helps to eliminate toxins, improve digestion, lower blood pressure, cleanse the kidneys and treat urinary infections.
Side Effects of Birch Oil
Birch essential oil is completely safe to use with no reported side effects. Contact your general physician to understand the right dosage for use.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are advised against using birch oil.
- Birch oil should not be used in the concentrated form. It has to be always diluted with a carrier oil.
- Birch oil should not be applied to open wounds. It should not be ingested and is generally used only topically.
