Fir Needle Oil
Fir Needle Oil is either extracted from Balsam fir known as Abies Balsamea or Silver fir known as Abies Alba. The genus Abies contains about 48 to 55 species. It belongs to the evergreen conifers of the Pinaceae plant family. Generally all the trees of this genus reach an average height of 30 to 250 ft. These cone shaped trees have a kingly appearance. The trunks of these trees are marked with resinous vesicles. The special aspect of the fir trees are needle-shaped leaves. As the essential oils are extracted from these leaves, the oil is rightly called as fir needle oil. The grayish green branches are rough and the needle leaves are attached to the twig by a base. This twig resembles a suction cup. The mature winged seeds are released by the cylindrical cones that measure about 5 to 25 cm. The Balsam fir has a splendid and spicy fragrance that makes it more suitable for Christmas Eve. The needle leaves are fresh and strong even a long time after cutting the tree. Fir needle oil is extracted from the needles of the Siberian fir trees or the Balsam fir trees. Fir oil is bright, clear, refreshing and uplifting.
Latin Name: Abies Alba/Abies Balsamea
Alternative Names: Silver Fir, Balsam Fir, Fir Pine, Canada Balsam, Christmas Tree, Fir Balsam, Fir, Sapin, Silver Pine, Fir Canada oil, Fir Siberian oil.
Generally fir trees are native to South America, North America, Europe and Africa. These trees are commercially cultivated in a wide range of areas for use in aromatherapy and the plywood industry. Fir trees grow well in clay soils and soils that are rich in water content. It requires partial shade and moderate sunlight. Fir trees are propagated by sowing the seeds during early spring. Fir oil contains mucilages, vitamin A, tannins, vitamin C, terpene acid, bitter principles, minerals, santene, a-pinene, tricylene, careen, terpinen-r-ol acetate, myrcene, terpinolene, limonene, borneol, phellandrene and piperitone.
Uses: Fir oil is used in aromatherapy for treating health conditions like sinusitis, bronchitis, cough, cold, rheumatism, flu, arthritis, muscular aches, fatigue and pains. With its analgesic and expectorant properties, Fir oil is used to treat certain chronic disorders. This oil is soothing and calming to the mind and body. With its stimulating effect, helps in bringing mental and physical alertness. It is also used in candles, diffusers and is diluted in certain massage oils.
