Orientation–
Today, your animated helper is Brian, Trish’s nephew. He is a big fan of the Conifers and wanted to share his impression of them. Please take a moment to listen to his talk.
Today’s readings and lectures will take place at the Ship’s Library. You know your way there now. Remember to bring your beverage, laptop or notebook, and scent strips. As you settle into your comfortable chair, prepare to go through this lesson as you are used to.
Read about all the essential oils and view the pictures of the conifers. Sniff all the essential oils in this family and do a scent impressions sheet for each. Here is your link to the Scent Impression Sheets- if you need extra copies. https://www.northernstarcourses.com/lesson/f-the-scent-impressions-sheet/
Robert’s video is at the end of the page. Vanessa, the Deva/Fairy, also has a short video about Scots Pine.
The Practical Potions download will give you a hard copy of Baba Yaga’s Furniture Polish. Make it and give it a try. If the Conifer family has influenced your life, head to the Practical Potions Facebook page to share your journey.
Introduction:
The Coniferae Family-
The Coniferae family is comprised of beloved trees. They have curative properties and are tonic and warming. They act on the nervous system, lungs, and glandular system. They are often used for lung problems, rheumatism, and arthritis.
Cade
Juniperus oxycedrus
From: Spain, Croatia
Steam distilled from the branches and heartwood of Juniperus oxycedrus. If it is dry distilled (without water or steam), it yields a rectified tar.
Class: terpenes
3 Key Constituents: delta-Cadinene, Torreyol (+ 3 other alcohols), Epicubenol (Tisserand p 222) 2000).
Favourite Use: As a smoky, sweet-woody note in scent blends.
Skin: Historically, cade has been used on the skin. It has been used to heal cuts, scalp disease, dermatitis, eczema, scales, dandruff, hair loss, pimples, herpes, scabies, and lice. It may be a sensitizing agent that some people react to. So, if used, you must take time and do patch tests on small amounts of skin. Never use it on damaged skin.
Respiratory: It also has a history of use for the respiratory system, but it is too thick to put in a diffuser by itself and much too strong-smelling to use alone. You could dip a toothpick into the oil and mix a pinhead amount with other essential oils, such as eucalyptus and ravintsara aromatica. Historically, cade was used for chronic rhinitis and catarrh.
Veterinary Use: Parasites.
It has a tar-like, leather-like, smokey scent—odour intensity of 5. A tiny bit can be enticing in smokey blends, but it can overpower everything quickly, and due to its tar-like consistency, it isn’t easy to blend. Historically, it has been used in some men’s perfumes.
Perfumery: Leather-like, smoky, woody, very high odour intensity.
Blends with cassia, clove, oregano, pine, tea tree, and thyme.
Research:
Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties
A research study assessed various juniper oils’ antimicrobial and antifungal effects, confirming their significant inhibitory actions against multiple pathogens. This supports its traditional use in topical applications for treating skin and scalp infections.
Zuzarte, M., et al. (2019). “Antifungal and antibacterial activity of Juniperus oxycedrus L. essential oil from Portugal.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
Cautions: It can irritate the skin for those with allergies or inflamed conditions. Do not use it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, around children, or with your furry friends—no internal use.
Unrectified cade should not be used, either internally or externally. The oil may contain benzo (a)pyrene, and this is a carcinogen. Tisserand 223; pg 222. Tisserand- The rectified oil used in aromatherapy is not carcinogenic. Use less than 2% for dermal limit.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Atlas Cedarwood
Cedrus atlantica
From: Morocco
Steam distilled from heartwood, stumps, and sawdust. It has been steam-distilled in Algeria since the 1880s.
Class: sesquiterpene, sesquiterpenols, including Atlantic, Cedric, alpha-bisabolol.
3 Key Constituents: Beta-Himachalene (31-40%), alpha-Himachalene (10-16%), (E)-alpha-Atlantone (Aberchane and Fechtal, 2004).
Cosmetic: Atlas cedar is a beneficial essential oil. Dilute and use on acne, oily skin, fungus, scabs, pus, and chronic dermatosis. Atlas cedar aids seborrhea, dandruff, and hair loss. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 141
Respiratory: Diffuse for respiratory infections, congestion, chronic bronchitis, coughs, excess phlegm, kills airborne bacteria. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 141
Muscles and Joints: Dilute in carrier oil and apply to sore regions to address rheumatic and arthritic pain.
Cardio: Stimulates circulation. Decongestant to pelvic and lymphatic circulation.
Genito: Add a bit into the bath or a few drops into a douche for urinary infections, chronic vaginitis, or cystitis pain. Atlas Cedar aids simple water retention (edema).
Mental and Nervous System: Atlas cedar is a nervous system regulator. It is sedative, suitable for nervous tension, fear, and anger disconnectedness, promotes integrity, and soothes anxiety (Sheppard-Hanger, pg. 14). It is helpful for mild anxiety, resignation, and burnout. Like patchouli and sandalwood, it is calming, stabilizing, and perfect for tension and weakness. It will calm the hyperactive insulate system that encompasses worry, obsession, and repetitive thinking (Holmes, 2016).
In TCM terms, it treats dampness and blood stagnation in the Lower Warmer. Atlas Cedar nourishes Yin, resolves dampness, and calms Shen.
Perfumery: Woody, soft. Odor intensity midrange. Mid-base note, with good persistence.
Blends well with amber, bergamot, benzoin, boronia, calamus, cardamom, cassia, cinnamon, clary, cypress, frankincense, geranium, jasmine, juniper, labdanum, lavender, lemon, linden blossom, neroli, rosewood, rosemary, sandalwood, vetiver, and ylang. It is very compatible with labdanum and woody or woody-floral blends. It has a slight mimosa-type quality.
It is an astringent and anti-bacterial addition to men’s aftershave.
Mythological/Spiritual: The oil may be mythologically connected with Atlas, the Greek figure strong enough to bear the world’s weight. It has been linked to coffins, with magical powers to help the departed find their way through the death transition.
“The oil was used in Ancient Egypt for embalming bodies for mummification, and the wood was used for sarcophagi-double insurance!” Purchon and Cantele p.44
In A Druid’s Herbal, pg. 33 Cedar is used for purifying a home and enhancing psychic powers.
Research:
Analgesic Pain Reducing Effects: Participants reported a decrease in pain levels.
Da Silva, A. M., et al. (2018). “Anxiolytic properties of Cedrus atlantica oil inhalation in humans.” Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 31, 162-167.
Antimicrobial Activity: A study focused on the antimicrobial activity of Atlas cedarwood oil against various pathogens. The oil exhibited potent antimicrobial properties, particularly against fungal infections, making it useful in skin care formulations to prevent and treat diseases.
El Amri, J., et al. (2010). “Antimicrobial activity of Cedrus atlantica essential oil.” International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents, 35(6), 637-643..
Insect Repellent Properties: This study assessed the efficacy of Atlas cedarwood oil as an insect repellent. The results confirmed that the oil effectively repels mosquitoes and other insects, suggesting its application in natural insect-repellent formulations.
Schmidt, E., et al. (2015). “Repellent activity of Cedrus atlantica essential oil against insects.” Journal of Pest Science, 88(3), 613-621..
Cautions: In high concentrations, it may irritate the skin. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please do not use it with children—no internal use.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Baba Yaga’s Simple Furniture Oil
(Adapted from Laurie’s book Scents of Wonder)
This recipe is also found in your Practical Potions, Accompanying Journal-
I like to work imaginatively with the furniture. For example, if you have spruce or pine furniture, add spruce or pine essential oil to the jojoba. This puts an element of the original scent of the wood back into the furniture. I can hear my furniture sigh in ecstasy as I massage its original essence back into it.
Baba Yaga is an East European Crone goddess known for her fierce, determined character. The furniture polish named for her is simple, efficient and natural, a combination she might find pleasing.
Baba Yaga’s Furniture Polish
20 ml (3/4 ounce) jojoba oil
3 ml (60 drops) atlas cedar
Mix atlas cedar into the jojoba. Dab a little of this concoction onto the clean cloth you will use to polish furniture. Try a spot of wood that does not show from the top. See how your wood responds to it. Before proceeding, give it a day to see if you like how it looks. If it works well, apply more liberally to clean, moisten and polish your wood furniture. Keep away from children and pets.
Exercise: Create the furniture polish. Try it on the underside of your furniture to ensure it does not ruin the finish.
Cedar Atlas- Student Project, Lisa Holzinger
Click on the picture for a clearer view.
Red Cedarwood/ Virginia Cedarwood
Juniperus virginiana
Steam distilled from wood
Class: sesquiterpene
3 Key Constituents: alpha-Cedrene, Thujopsene, Cedrol (Lawrence 1998e p. 67-68)
Favourite Use: I put a few drops on an absorbent cloth and place it in my closet. It has the scent of old cedar chests and is traditionally used to repel moths.
Cosmetic: Dilute well, but it is valuable for acne, oily skin, psoriasis, dermatitis, dandruff, scabs, pus, and soft skin. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 255
It is used in shampoos to control dandruff.
Respiratory: It must be highly diluted to be safe, but it has been used for bronchitis, cough, chronic congestion, sinusitis, and excess mucous. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 255
Muscular: Dilute with a carrier oil to 1-2% to use for arthritis, especially chronic cases.
Nervous system: Diffused and highly diluted for stress, tension, and nervous disorders.
Perfumery: This oil has the scent of cedar chests—bottom note.
Try it with benzoin, cypress, guaiac wood, juniper, patchouli, rose, sandalwood, and vetiver. They were used extensively in soap perfumery.
Oil can be distilled from either the heartwood or the leaves and twigs.
Research:
Research focused on the anxiolytic and sedative effects of inhaling Juniperus virginiana oil. The study found that the oil significantly reduced anxiety and promoted relaxation in subjects, suggesting its use in aromatherapy for stress and anxiety relief. Zhang, Kai, & Yao, L., 2018.
Cautions: Red cedar may be an abortifacient and toxic if taken internally. It may also cause sensitization and be phytotoxic. Avoid it during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and with children and pets. Atlas Cedarwood is safer.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Texas Cedarwood
Juniperus ashei
From: Texas & USA in general
Steam distilled from wood
Class: terpenes
3 Key Constituents: Thuopsene, alpha-Cedrene, Cedrol (Lawrence 1998e p. 67-68)
Cosmetic: Dilute with a carrier oil for acne, oily skin, and psoriasis. It is used for dandruff and as an insect repellant. Use highly diluted.
Respiratory: Dilute highly in a diffuser with other essential oils, or use a drop in a water-based diffuser for bronchitis, cough, congestion, sinusitis and excessive mucous. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 253
Muscular: Dilute to 1% in a carrier for arthritis and rheumatism.
Nervous system: CNS regulator, sedative, nervous tension, stress, anxiety, fear, anger, aids meditation, balance. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 253
Aids meditation.
Perfumery: Pencil wood, type scent, cade-like. Mid-high odour intensity.
Try with amber, bergamot, orange, patchouli, pine, spruce, tangerine, and vetiver.
Research:
Antimicrobial Effects
A study evaluated the antimicrobial properties of Juniperus ashei essential oil, examining its efficacy against common bacterial and fungal pathogens. The results indicated vigorous antimicrobial activity, suggesting its potential use in managing infections, particularly those affecting the skin and respiratory system (Jenkins et al., 2015).
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Research on the anti-inflammatory effects of Juniperus ashei oil demonstrated its potential in reducing inflammation, particularly in dermatological contexts. The study proved that the oil could alleviate inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis symptoms (Tumen et al., 2013).
Cautions: High doses can irritate the skin. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please do not use it with children or pets—no internal use.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Cedar Leaf/Thuja
Thuja/Thuja occidentalis
From: Canada, USA
Steam distilled from leaves and branches
Class: ketones
3 Key Constituents: alpha-Thujone, Fenchone, beta-Thujone (Yatagi et al 1985:)
Favourite Use: I only use this essential oil on warts. It takes persistence to get results. I advise applying a “moat” of vaseline or a skin protectant around the wart. Dab thuja onto the wart. Cover with a band-aid. Do 1-2 times per day.
Cosmetic: Soothing to poison ivy, oak rash, corns. Treats viral warts. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 405
Cautions: This is an oral toxin. Convulsive, abortive. Do not use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Please do not use it with children or pets. Please be sure to use it only with extreme caution. It is aggressive to the skin. Please be sure to use it with care. No internal use. Neurotoxin.
Cypress
Cupressus sempervirens
From: France, Spain, Morocco.
Steam distilled from branches (twigs and needles). The scent is fresh, camphor-like, balsamic woody with a fruity green note.
The tree is long-lived and widely planted in graveyards throughout the Mediterranean. Ancient Egyptians used the wood for mummy sarcophagi.
Class: Monoterpene
3 Key Constituents: alpha-Pinene, delta-3-Carene, Cedrol (Lawrence 1979p. 18, 1989 p29-30 1995d. p.34)
Cosmetic: Cypress has astringent qualities and is mostly used for oily or acne skin.
Cypress’s dry, astringent qualities help with excessive perspiration, simple water retention, varicose veins, and cellulite. It stimulates skin blood circulation. It tones oily skin, broken veins, coupe rose, rosacea, acne, and boils. Its drying effect helps with “boggy conditions” of the body, including lymphatic congestion.
Cypress may also reduce or stop external bleeding, making it a good wound oil. Purchon and Cantele p. 52
Respiratory: Add a drop of cypress to a glass of salt water and gargle for a sore throat, hoarseness, and laryngitis associated with a dry cough.
Diffuse for sinusitis, bronchitis, spasmodic cough, and possibly whooping cough. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 191
Muscular: Create a massage oil with a carrier and a few drops of cypress for muscle cramps, arthritis, poor circulation (icy hands and feet), and rheumatism. Cypress is anti-spasmodic to both smooth and striped muscles. It is also used for hemorrhoids.
Urogenital: Use in a bath or massage to help induce menstruation, menopausal hot flashes & tension, spasmodic cramps, and PMS, also for strangury, neurogenic bladder, incontinence and enuresis.
Cypress also helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and decongest the prostate. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 191. The oil is vital to hypo-estrogenic conditions, including menopause, PMS, ovarian cysts and dysmenorrhea.
Nervous system: A drop or two in a bath or massage may help the emotional conditions of tension, stress, anger, lack of concentration, uncontrolled crying, and talking. It is an adrenocortical treatment that is beneficial for chronic nervous weakness. “Cypress allows new decisions to arise authentically from within and conscious intentions to be made with complete self-assurance…[and] supports the process of radical transformation and renewal” Holmes (2016).
Perfumery: Top-bottom note. Mid-high odour intensity
Mix with ambrette, blue Moroccan chamomile, citrus, clary sage, juniper, labdanum, lavender, mandarin, pine rosemary, and sandalwood. Purchon and Cantele p.52 Cypress makes an excellent addition to aftershave.
Mythological and Spiritual: Cypress has always been connected with death and significant transitions. In Greek mythology, the boy Kyparissos, who suffered terminal grief, was turned into a cypress tree.
Astrologically, Cypress is connected to the planet Saturn, life lessons, and old age. It is also associated with Hades (Pluto), the underworld god. Mourners at funerals would carry cypress branches to show their grief. Coffins were once made from cypress; the wood helped disguise the scent of decay.
It is planted in graveyards to help the deceased during their transition. Cleanses spirit removes psychic blocks. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 191
In TCM terms, it helps to tone Qi, activate Qi and Blood, and strengthen the Shen.
Research:
Antimicrobial Activity
A study explored the antimicrobial effects of Cupressus sempervirens essential oil against several bacterial and fungal strains. The findings indicated that the oil possesses significant antimicrobial properties, effectively combating skin infections. Selim, S.A., “Antimicrobial activity of essential oil of Cupressus sempervirens.” European Journal of Microbiology & Immunology, vol. 5, no. 3, 2015, pp. 147-150. Read more.
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity: This study evaluated the chemical composition, antimicrobial, and antibiofilm activity of the essential oil and methanol extract of Cupressus sempervirens. The results indicated significant antibacterial properties, particularly against Klebsiella pneumoniae. Selim, S., et al. (2014). “Chemical composition, antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of the Mediterranean cypress’s essential oil and methanol extract (Cupressus sempervirens L.).”.
Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities: This study focused on the antioxidant potential and antibacterial activity of Cupressus sempervirens essential oil, highlighting its effectiveness against various bacteria and its high antioxidant capacity. Nouri, A. B., et al. (2015). “Chemical composition and antimicrobial activities of essential oils of some coniferous plants cultivated in Egypt.”.
Antimicrobial Activities against Pathogenic Fungi: This research analyzed the chemical composition and antimicrobial activities of essential oils from Cupressus sempervirens against phytopathogenic microorganisms, showing strong inhibitory effects. Fitsev, I., et al. (2022). “Chemical composition and antimicrobial activities of some Cupressaceae species from Algeria against two phytopathogenic microorganisms.”.
Cautions: Avoid Cypress if pregnant or breastfeeding, with high blood pressure, high estrogen conditions, uterine cancer and breast fibrosis. Please do not use it with children or pets—no internal use. If oxidized oils are used, they are skin sensitizers. Keep oils in a cold, dark place. Tisserand p.265
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Student Project, Tina Mathieu, Silver Cypress- Click below for Access
Newspaper Template. Tina Use Stillpdf
Balsam Fir Needle
Abies balsamea
From: Northeast USA and Canada
Steam distillation of oleoresin from the trunk.
If the leaves or needles are steam distilled, it is balsam fir needle oil.
Class: Monoterpene
3 Key Constituents: Beta-Pinene, delta-3-Carene, Bornyl acetate (Regimbal & Collin 1994).
Respiratory: Diffuse Balsam Fir for bronchitis, chronic coughing, sinusitis, and catarrh. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 87. The oil warms, drys and decongests.
Add a drop to a glass of salt water and gargle for a sore throat. Diffuse for sinusitis, staph., chills, rhinitis, catarrh, shortness of breath, or asthma.
Muscular: Dilute in a carrier oil and use as a rub for arthritis and muscle aches.
Genito: Use in a bath for a urinary antiseptic, cystitis and urinary bacterial infections. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 87
Nervous System: Diffuse for tonic effects on the Central Nervous System. Energetically, Balsam Fir is warming and grounding.
Perfumery: Coniferous, balsamic and refreshing. Odour intensity mid-high. Top-mid note. (Fir absolute, however, is a base note).
It blends well with basil, bergamot, blue Moroccan chamomile, caraway, cedar, citrus, clary, frankincense, grapefruit, juniper berry, lavender, labdanum, myrtle, niaouli, oakmoss, patchouli, pine, rose, rosemary, rosewood, and sandalwood. It also combines with black spruce, scotch pine, and cypress for respiratory mucus.
Mythology and Spirituality: Many people prefer the Balsam Fir as a Christmas Tree and recognize the scent of this sacred experience.
According to http://www.ancient-wisdom.com/treelore.htm, “The Celtics knew the Fir as the Birth Tree. The needles are burned in childbirth to bless and protect the mother and baby. Fir cones respond to rain by closing and to the sun by opening. Fir can see over great distances to the far horizon beyond and below. Fir indicates high views and long sights with a clear vision of what is beyond and yet to come”.
Research:
Anti Tumour Properties
(Legault et al., 2010).
Cautions: No internal use. Do not use if pregnant or with children. There are rare reports of dermatitis. Fir oil can oxidize; keep it in a dark, airtight container in a refrigerator. Tisserand p.283
Note * Templin Oil comes from the Silver Fir- Abies alba or pectinate cone. This cone oil has a balsamic, “orange” like fragrance.
Fir Needle- Student Project, Lisa Holzinger-
Click on the Picture to Make it Bigger.
William Orr- Student Project-
Video on Balsam Fir, Lodgepole Pine and Red and Atlas Cedar
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Balsam Fir Video- Student Project, Tanya Wells
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
From: Canada, USA
Essential Oil steam distilled from the needles. Fresh lemon notes on top of deep balsamic-conifer base notes.
3 Key Constituents: Camphene,alpha-Pinene, Beta-Pinene (Kubeczka & Schultze 1987)
Favourite Use: I diffuse it to clean the air and add the scent of the forest, which makes me feel expansive and grounded. I also like balsam fir for the same reason.
Respiratory: Diffuse for asthma, bronchitis, coughs, respiratory infections and airborne bacteria. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 363
Muscular: Dilute in carrier and massage onto muscle aches and rheumatism. Aids poor circulation.
Immune: Diffuse for colds, flu, infections, and environmental disinfection.
Mind: This essential oil evokes being in the forest, and it may be helpful for anxiety and stress. The tree scents are both grounding and opening.
Dr. Berkowsky suggests that needle oil can help assuage gut-driven primal fear—not only via its sedative effect but also because its unique plant soul vibrates in the key of paternal protection and nurturing. It is helpful for anxiety, nervous tension, asthma, wounds, and feelings of powerlessness. It is associated with a lack of male nurturance, where stress and fear are experienced in the chest.
Research:
Antimicrobial Properties Research shows that Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) essential oil has demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against various fungal and bacterial strains, making it a potential natural preservative and treatment for infections. A study analyzing the chemical composition and antifungal activity of Douglas fir essential oil found it effective against several fungal species, with a higher antifungal activity than the commercial agent bifonazole (Tešević et al., 2009). Another study identified over 50 compounds in the essential oil of Douglas fir, with β-pinene, sabinene, and other monoterpenes as the main constituents. The biological tests discussed in the study suggest potential antimicrobial benefits (Jirovetz et al., 2000).
Anti-inflammatory Properties Douglas fir essential oil has been found to significantly reduce inflammatory markers, which can be beneficial in treating chronic inflammatory conditions. Research on the anti-inflammatory effects of Douglas fir essential oil in human dermal fibroblasts showed a significant reduction in inflammation-related biomarkers (Han, 2017).
Cautions: No formal testing for sensitivities. Avoid use on sensitive and damaged skin. Avoid it in pregnancy with babies, children and pets, as it is possibly irritating—no internal use. Skin sensitization if oxidized. Keep oils in a cool, dark place.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Juniper
Juniperus communis
From: Croatia, Serbia, Italy & France
Steam distilled from branches & berries
Class: monoterpenes
Antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, bronchitis, sinusitis. Sheppard-Hanger, pg 251. The twig oil is an excellent mucolytic expectorant for bronchitis and a detoxing diuretic for high-uric acid conditions such as gout and urinary stones.
It is effective for seborrheic scalp conditions such as dandruff.
Cautions – Avoid Juniper during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please do not use it with children or pets or take it internally.
The branch oil is often adulterated and should never be used internally. Encyclopedia of Essential Oils, Julia Lawless, pg. 114. Please don’t use Juniper if you have sensitive skin.
Berries
Class: Monoterpenes (65-90%), including alpha-pinene (25-70%) and sabinene (10-40%).
3 Key Constituents: alpha-Pinene, Sabinene, beta-Myrcene (Schilcher et al 1993)
Favourite Use: Diffuse to clean the air.
The essential oil is a warming, drying stimulant. At the same time, it is a fluid decongestant, resolving damp conditions in Middle and Lower Warmers.
Cosmetic: Juniper berries may be used for acne, dermatitis, blocked pores, varicose veins, cellulite, wet eczema, ulcers, abscesses, and water retention. It can be added to shampoo for hair loss. Dilute and apply to the gum for a toothache.
Respiratory Diffuse for rhinitis. It is a good disinfectant for the air.
Muscular: Dilute and rub into the area for gout and rheumatism. An added benefit is Juniper Berry, a circulatory stimulant that helps individuals who feel worse in cold, damp weather.
Due to its astringent action, Juniper Berry can be made into an anal suppository with coconut oil for hemorrhoids.
Immune: Diffuse for colds, flu, and infections. It helps detoxify, increases perspiration and reduces body temperature: Purchon and Cantele p. 68.
It is a good insect repellent, Purchon and Cantele p. 68 and may help deter ticks and fleas.
Digestive: Stimulates pancreatic digestion. Sheppard-Hanger pg 251
Genito: Dilute and rub into the area. Juniper Berry may ease menstrual pain. Helpful for cystitis, edema, and bladder irritation. It may be used on genital warts. Sheppard-Hanger pg 251
Nervous System: Diffuse for anxiety, stress, jet lag, poor memory. It relieves stagnant, hostile, confused thoughts and mental fog, according to Holmes (2016).
Perfumery: Musky, fruity, top-middle note; Odor intensity mid-high.
It blends well with benzoin, black pepper, cedar, cypress, elemi, fir, geranium, ginger, labdanum, lavender, lime, lovage, oakmoss, orange, pine, sandalwood, and forest blends.
In TCM terms, the oil strengthens the Spleen, resolves dampness and warms the interior.
Mythological and Spiritual: Juniper berry has been used to protect against evil spirits. The berry represents staying true to oneself. It is also used to heighten mystical experiences and clairvoyance. In A Druid’s Herbal, Juniper is used to purify, protect, and enhance sexual powers in men, attract love, and strengthen psychic ability.
Like many members of the conifer family, the tree branches form a natural broom. Juniper is also used to sweep space to cleanse for ritual and clear negative energy. Until recently, sprigs of juniper and rosemary were burned in hospital wards in France to prevent the spread of infection. Purchon and Cantele p. 69
Interesting tidbit: The berries are used to flavour Dutch and sloe gin. The fermented berries yield an inferior oil, and finding unfermented berry oil on the market is challenging.
.
Research:
Antimicrobial Activity A study explored the antimicrobial properties of Juniperus communis essential oil and found it effective against a range of bacterial and fungal pathogens, suggesting its use as a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent (Schmidt et al., 2010).
Cautions: Avoid on delicate skin. Do not use if pregnant or with children. It may stimulate the uterine muscle and be an abortifacient. No internal use—or use very carefully and exceptionally moderately. According to old literature, prolonged internal use may damage kidneys, but this is unlikely with this oil. Reports probably referred to another plant, Juniperus Sabina. Skin sensitizer if oxidized. Store in a cool, dark place—Tisserand, p. 314.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Take a break and stretch as you need to.
More coniferous delights to come!
Pine
Pinus sylvestris
From: Russia, Germany, France (over most of the world)
Many pine oils are lumped together under this name. Adulteration with this oil is common and sourced from other pine species.
Scotch pine has been distilled in Europe since the Middle Ages, and in the 18th century, it was used in Turkish steam baths and spas.
Steam distillation of needles and branches.
Class: monoterpenes (60-80%).
3 Key Constituents: alpha-Pinene (20-50%), beta-Pinene (2-35%), and delta-3-Carene (1-32%) (Lawrence 1993p. 140-143; Orav et al. 1996)
Cosmetic: Diluted Pine is disinfecting for boils, cuts, and sores. Pine is helpful for excessive perspiration, eczema, and psoriasis.
Repels ringworm, scabies, and lice. Good for skin, especially greyish oxygen-deficient skin, sometimes experienced by smokers. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 355
Respiratory: Diffuse to ease breathing, asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, whooping cough, sinusitis and any chronic lung condition. Julia Lawless says pine is an excellent restorative after a long illness. Encyclopedia of Essential Oils, pg. 157
Add a drop to a glass of salt water and gargle for a sore throat and laryngitis.
Immune: Pine essential oil is an immune stimulant that may moderate inflammatory conditions and the allergic process—Sheppard-Hanger pg 355. The oil is a potent systemic neuroendocrine and immune restorative regulator with adaptogenic balancing of the HPAA. This includes hormonal dysfunction, including estrogen, progesterone or testosterone deficiency. It also restores pancreatic function in both hyper and hypoglycaemic states, combining well with geranium.
Pycnogenol is a supplement made from pine bark, which is very helpful for inflammatory conditions, including allergies.
Pine oil protects against osteoporosis and bone loss. Mulbauer RC et al, Bone 2003 32(4): 372-80.
Scots Pine needle oil exhibits potential for breast tumours and is unresponsive to endocrine treatment. It is strongly cytotoxic to both negative and positive breast cancer cell lines. Hoai NT et al., Pharmacogn Mag 2015 (Supp 22): 290-5.
Muscles & Joints: Dilute and add a few drops to massage oil or bath for muscular pains, stiffness, sciatica and water retention. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 355
Nervous System: Diffuse to fight fatigue and tension and promote a clean feeling. Some people do not like the scent because they have smelled many cleaners with a pine odour. However, it can help with psychological issues such as depression, ADD, and dissociative disorders. “Pine is for the person whose soul strength has been crushed by severe hardships or harsh circumstances. The oil may help create enough soul presence and honesty to kindle a spark of courage and motivation to continue life’s journey, despite all odds and opposition.” (Holmes, 2016).
Perfumery: Mid-top note, coniferous, wood; odour intensity high. You can use it very sparingly in blends.
Combines with bergamot, cedarwood, cinnamon, clove, clary, cypress, eucalyptus, frankincense, grapefruit, juniper, lavender, lemon, marjoram, myrtle, niaouli, peppermint, ravintsara, rosemary, sandalwood, tea tree and thyme linalool.
Mythology and Spirituality: Associated with Christmas trees.
“Worshipers of Dionysus often carried a pine-cone-tipped wand as a fertility symbol. The pine cone image is also found on ancient amulets as a fertility symbol. For the Romans, the pine was an object of worship during the spring equinox festival of Cybele and Attis. As an evergreen tree, the pine would also have symbolized immortality.”
Video: Vanessa the Deva talks about the Sacred Scots Pine-Press Play.
“Druids used to light large bonfires of Scots pine at the winter solstice to celebrate the seasons’ passing and draw back the sun. Glades of Scots pines were also decorated with lights and shiny objects, the tree covered in stars representing the Divine Light. It is easy to see how these rituals have given rise to the latter-day Yule log and Christmas tree customs”—excerpt from Paul Kendall, Trees for Life.
In a Druid’s Herbal, pg. 37- Pine is said to increase healing, joy, and purification and to send spells back to the sender. It is a tree representing peace and immortality.
Research:
Chemical Composition
The essential oil of Pinus sylvestris needles from Turkey was analyzed, revealing 43 components, with α-pinene, camphene, and β-pinene as major constituents (Ustun et al., 2006).
Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Cytotoxic Activity
Research on the essential oil from Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica identified 101 compounds with significant antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxic activities, especially against MCF-7 breast cancer cells (Namshir et al., 2020).
Seasonal Variation
The essential oil composition of Pinus sylvestris varies seasonally. The predominant compounds in the oil include α-pinene, camphene, β-pinene, and sabinene (Zafra & García‐Peregrín, 1976).
Chemical Composition of Different Locations
The chemical composition of Pinus sylvestris essential oils varies based on geographic location. Over 70 constituents have been identified, including α-pinene and δ-3-carene, the dominant components (Venskutonis et al., 2000).
Cautions: Avoid if allergic (to pine) and with prostate cancer. Do not use it if pregnant or on children. Please do not take it internally. The oil can be sensitizing and cause skin reactions. Keep oils in a cool, dark place. Older oils should be avoided due to their skin-sensitizing properties.
Note* what is sometimes called pine oil is derived from Siberian Fir – Abies siberica.
Pinus sylvestrus- Student Project with Anita Berger
The Pines
Student Project by Alicia Miller
A whiff of pine scent
On a quiet walk
A breeze blowing softly
As I look up, pines stirring
And a kind of brewing
At the top of the pine
branches lifted, spirits rising, waiting
Then that particular smell, bracing
As a sharpened point
Sunlight streaming through waving branches
Making patterns on the ground
Pine Slide Show Student Project by Tammy Courtney
Spruce (Black)
Picea mariana
The oil is produced from needles and twigs. It has only been widely produced in eastern Canada since the early 1960s.
Three key Constituents are bornyl acetate (31-49%), beta-pinene (2-10%), and alpha-pinene (13-16%) (Tisserand, p.429).
The properties are very similar to those of white spruce. Black spruce is more advantageous for pituitary and thyroid issues. It restores the HPA axis and helps restore neuroendocrine balance, especially fatigue associated with adrenal dysregulation. It also assists with hypothyroid problems. Consider its benefit in cases of chronic fatigue syndrome. In TCM terms, it improves Lung and Kidney Yang, acting like an adaptogen.
Research:
Antibacterial Activity
The essential oil of Picea mariana has been shown to have antibacterial properties against various bacterial strains, making it a potential natural antimicrobial agent (Canillac & Mourey, 2001).
Chemical Composition
The essential oil of Picea mariana is rich in bornyl acetate, camphene, α-pinene, and borneol, which contribute to its therapeutic properties (Alpaslan et al., 2014).
Optimization of Bioactive Polyphenols Extraction
Optimization studies have demonstrated the extraction of bioactive polyphenols from Picea mariana bark, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (Francezon et al., 2017).
Cautions: Potential skin irritant. Do not exceed the recommended dilution when applied to the skin due to the high content of delta-carene.
Old and oxidized oils should be avoided. Keep in a cool, dark place. Do not use internally in the first trimester if pregnant or around children—no internal use.
Black Spruce- Student Project- Lisa Holzinger-
Click on the picture for a larger view.
White Spruce
Picea glauca
Both trees have very similar properties and will be covered together.
From: Canada
Essential Oil Steam distilled.
Class: monoterpene, ester
3 Key Constituents: B- Pinene, x-Pinene, Bornyl acetate Tisserand p. 431
Favourite Use: Dr. Penoel taught us to dilute the spruce oil with a carrier oil and rub it onto the adrenal glands in the morning to give them extra strength. He noted that trees produce essential oils for protection, and spruce defends the adrenals during busy or stressful times.
Skin: Dilute and use for acne or dry eczema. Spruce tightens watery tissue.
Respiratory: Diffused spruce is a good tonic and antiseptic that aids bronchitis. Inhale it for wet asthma. Spruce may be suitable for colds, flu, and infections. Spruce is a possible aid for asthmatics taking corticosteroids. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 343
Muscular: Spruce is a beautiful oil for muscle aches & pains, poor circulation, rheumatism, arthritis, and aching joints. Dilute to about 3%. Test for skin sensitivities before application.
Mind: Diffuse for anxiety, debility, stress, tension, and exhaustion.
Diffusing tree scents is like taking a walk in the forest. The fragrance evokes a sense of spaciousness and strength. Conifer scents are refreshing and have been used in programs to rehabilitate exhausted psyches and depleted bodies for centuries. For instance, part of the healing magic of the Black Forest in Germany is attributed to the evergreen trees.
Perfumery: Woody, coniferous, refreshing. It is generally classified as a base note but has a top note—high odour intensity.
Blends with bergamot, birch, basil, benzoin, camphor, cedar, cypress, galbanum, hyssop, lavender, labdanum, marjoram, myrtle, orange, oakmoss, pine, rosemary, and yuzu.
Mythology and Spirituality: Loved by Artemis, the goddess of the forest and wild.
Planetary– Moon
Cautions: This product is a potential skin irritant. Old and oxidized oils should be avoided. Keep it in a cool, dark place. Do not use it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or around children or pets—no internal use.
The Song of Spruce was recorded on the music of the plant’s device, capturing the actual tones of a spruce tree.
The Song of Spruce-
Robert Captured the Song of a Spruce Tree.
Robert Discusses the Coniferae Family Below-Video
Take a trip to your Practical Potions Journal, located at the bottom of this page under downloads. Complete the exercises to deepen your understanding of the Coniferae family and to do your scent impressions sheets of the oils in this family.
Could you share your experiences of the conifers with your Facebook group?