Birch
Betula Lenta

Plant Origin: Canada
Extraction Method: Steam distilled from macerated and soaked bark
Cultivation: Unsprayed (organically grown but not certified)

Actual Key Constituents:
Methyl Salicylate (99.40%)
1,8-cineole (0.24%)
Ethyl Salicylate (0.16%)
alpha-pinene (0.07%)
Linalool (0.04%)

Birch and Wintergreen are, chemically speaking, almost identical.

Heritage Essential Oils' Sweet Birch is grown and distilled in the Adirondack region of Canada - Apparently true steam-distilled Birch oil is no longer produced commercially on a large scale because it is not economically feasible to compete with other products such as wintergreen oil which, in terms of chemistry, is practically identical. Recently though, we have located some amazing quality Adirondack Birch oil that is produced by a family distillery on a very small scale, and it is the only authentic birch oil known to be on the market today.

Indications:
Arthritis, rheumatism, inflammation, muscular pain, tendinitis, hypertension, joints, muscles and cramps. The main chemical component of Birch is methyl salicylate, which is similar to the salicylic acid used in aspirin. Contains an active principle similar to cortisone and is beneficial for bone, muscle, and joint discomfort. Analgesic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, liver stimulant, and supports bone function. Birch oil may also be beneficial for cystitis, acne, bladder infection, gout, gallstones, edema, eczema, osteoporosis, skin diseases, ulcers, and urinary tract disorders.

Anti-depressant
Analgesic - joint and muscle pains, headaches, toothache
Anti-inflammatory - arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, joint and muscle aches and pains, tendon issues
Anti-spasmodic - cramps
Anti-septic and disinfectant - protect skin from bacterial and fungal infections
Astringent and tonic - skin toner, in low dosages may reduce wrinkles, sagging skin and muscles. Strengthens gums, hair and tightens muscles.
Detoxifier - helps remove toxins like uric acid from blood through increased urination and perspiration
Diuretic - promotes urination, cellulite
Germicide and Insecticide - eczema, ringworm
Febrifuge - may help reduce body temperature by promoting perspiration, which also helps by removing toxins
Rubefacient - locally warming
Stimulant - stimulates nervous system, circulatory system, digestive system and excretory system. Stimulates endocrine glands resulting in more secretions of enzymes and hormones.

Heritage Essential Oil blends with Birch:
Breath Fresh
Complexion
Fire Power
Headache Relief
Helichrysum Blend
Lung Healing
Pain Patrol
Pain-X
Sablo
Tooth Suds

Application:
Birch oil is safest to apply after diluting with massage oil, or may be applied neat (undiluted) to the bottom of the feet. For baths, add 3 to 5 drops to Epsom Salt, mix and then add to bath water.

Safety:
Because of Birch's affect on muscles, it is recommended to avoid/use with caution during pregnancy.

Undiluted use may cause skin irritations

Avoid eye contact. In case of accidental contact, put a few drops of any pure vegetable oil in the eye. Water will not adequately dilute the oil. We’ve never known this to cause permanent injury or long-term discomfort, but if you feel concerned, please call your doctor if necessary.

Testimony:
I wanted to let you know about the Birch oil. When I last ordered, you said it was a superior oil and wanted some feedback on it. Well, thankfully, we haven't had much need for it until just the other day. My husband had a very stiff and sore neck, and before retiring for the night, I massaged some into his neck and shoulder area. He woke the next morning with absolutely NO PAIN! So, for our feedback: We really like it!!! - T.S.

References:
Davis P., Aromatherapy An A-Z, C.W. Daniel Company Ltd, 2000
Rose J, 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols, Frog Ltd, 1999