8 Health Benefits of Pine Oil

17th January 2013

There may be a good reason why many common household cleaners claim to “smell like pine.” This connection to pine oil and good health is as old as the hills, and its related to the germ-fighting, disinfectant properties of the oil. In fact, it was greatly revered by the father of Western medicine, Hippocrates, who noted its strong healing effect on the human respiratory system. Similarly, the Native Americans used pine needles in bedding to prevent bedbugs and lice.

Pine oil, obtained by extracting essential oils from the needles of pine trees, is a strong medicinal aid. Similar to tea tree and eucalyptus oil, extracts of pine are powerful anti-septic agents. It also holds anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, insecticidal, analgesic, diuretic, aromatic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great oil to have in your medicine chest and cleaning cupboard.

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Its disinfectant and viral-fighting capacities are related to its high levels of phenols, acidic plant chemicals that fight off germs and ward off disease. It also has a healing effect on the endocrine system, and aids the body in cleansing impurities from the skin. Pine hydrosol is an immune-stimulant and body tonic, enhancing overall mental and physical balance.

8 Health Benefits of Pine Oil:

1. Powerful Anti-Inflammatory

Because of its potent analgesic properties, pine oil acts as an an anti-inflammatory for people with joint pain, arthritis and rheumatism. Used topically, it may also help relieve general muscular aches and pains. Add to a hot bath, or to a base massage oil, such as almond or coconut.

2. Expectorant

Essential pine oil may also help relieve congestion and acts as an expectorant, aiding the body to break up mucus and remove it from the lungs. It also helps reduce the incidence of sinus infections.

3. Skin Care

Pine oil may be useful with a variety of skin conditions due to its strong antiseptic capacities. This includes psoriasis, acne, boils, Athlete’s foot, eczema and itching. Applied topically, it can also be used for a remedy of the scalp, especially in cases of dryness and dandruff.

4. Acts as an Anti-Viral Agent

Pine nut oil may also aid in protecting us against the common cold and flu. Following a balanced diet, and plenty of foods high in vitamin c is also a great way to prevent colds.

5. Potent Anti-Oxidant Capacity

Through neutralizing free-radicals, pine oil helps us slow the process of cellular deterioration, thus slowing the process of aging. Anti-oxidants aid in protecting us from, eye-diseases, muscle degeneration, as well as many nervous-system disorders.

6. Anti-bacterial & Anti-Fungal Properties

With regular use, pine oil may help protect us against many types of fungal infections. It also holds anti-bacterial properties. This essential oil may aid in the prevention of common bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections and skin infections.

7. Aromatherapy

Stimulates the body and mind, and has an energizing effect on the overall person. As an aromatherapy agent, it has been used to support adrenal fatigue and mild depression.

8. Disinfectant

It is a great cleaning agent, and can be added to sprays and room-fresheners for a cleansing and brightening effect. Pine oil disinfectants have been shown to be effective in killing off many household germs, including mildew, yeast spores and E. coli.

Research on Pine Oil

Studies have shown the usefulness of pine oil in releiving bronchial infections. As a powerful antibacterial agent and antiseptic, it can help the body fight off infections. As an aromatherapy tool, it may be used to help prevent lower respiratory infections like bronchitis. Research collections from the University of Maryland Medical Center have demonstrated that its use for respiratory tract infections is solid and effective. Research also shows that use of pine oil may fight off sinus infections and colds when used as a steam inhalation. [1]

Cautions & Side Effects of Pine Oil

Essential pine oil should be used with care, as it is very powerful. If left undiluted, it may irritate skin and mucous membranes. Internal consumption may be hazardous to human health.

Usage for Essential Pine Oil

Add 4-6 drops of undiluted pine essential oil to warm bath water or dilute at 50/50 ratio with organic coconut oil or olive oil and apply to chest for respiratory distress. You can also put in aromatherapy diffuser.

Usage Of Pine Hydrosol

Add 1 teaspoon of pine hydrosol to 32 ounces of distilled water and shake well. Drink 8-16 ounces throughout the day for up to a week.

Previous Articles by Dr Edward

About the Author

Dr. Edward F. Group founded Global Healing Center in 1998 and is currently the Chief Executive Officer. Heading up the research and development team, Dr. Group assumes a hands-on approach in producing new and advanced degenerative disease products and information.

Dr. Group has studied natural healing methods for over 20 years and now teaches individuals and practitioners all around the world. He no longer sees patients but solely concentrates on spreading the word of health and wellness to the global community. Under his leadership, Global Healing Center, Inc. has earned recognition as one of the largest alternative, natural and organic health resources on the Internet.

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Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of Wake Up World or its staff.