Description
**Description:** Pine essential oil is obtained from the needles of the Scottish Pine (*Pinus sylvestris*) through steam distillation. The yield of essential oil from the plant material is between 0.45 and 0.55%.
**Special Characteristics:** Pine essential oil is typically a colorless to yellowish liquid. It has a resinous fresh scent with woody notes. The essential oil dissolves easily in alcohol (1:6 ethanol), carrier oils, and other essential oils. It is almost insoluble in water. The main components are α-pinene, limonene, and camphene. It also contains smaller concentrations of myrcene and 3-carene.
**Applications:** The components of pine essential oil have medicinal properties. Pine essential oil possesses hormonal properties and has anti-diabetic effects. Recommended applications include inhalation, bath oils, and massages. It also has a tonic effect on cardiovascular problems as well as hypotension (low blood pressure). However, in cases of hypertension (high blood pressure), pine essential oil should not be used. Its strong antimicrobial action can be used to treat tonsillitis, sore throat (pharyngitis), and pertussis (whooping cough). It has been found useful for topical application, inhalation, and use in bath oils. In cases of bronchitis and rhinitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory system), pine essential oil has intense mucolytic action. Through rubbing or inhalation, one can treat the symptoms and causes of these diseases.
In aromatherapy, pine essential oil is highly valued for its stimulating action. Especially in cases of acute fatigue and anxiety-related symptoms, the use of aromatic candles and gentle massages is recommended. Even after prolonged illness or hospital stays, the body’s recovery can be enhanced. Pine essential oil is also widely used for air purification and infection prevention in large public spaces.
**CAUTION: ALWAYS use diluted in a base oil or other solvent.**