Description

Fir Silver  Abies alba Base note – refreshing and highly uplifting

Fir silver essential oil – Abies alba known also as the European Silver Fir, White Fir or White Spruce. The second largest tree in Europe, second only to a Norway Spruce (Picea abies).

Documented examples in European countries state,”mature trees have grown to a truly colossal height of 55 metres (179 ft).”

The smooth grey trunk can measure up to 2 metres in diameter.

The Fir Silver is native to Europe, with forests located on the southern Alps, Russia as well as parts of North and Central America.

For centuries, the essential oil derived from distillation of the fragrant needles and twigs.   Fir oil has been produced throughout the European continent and likewise in small villages throughout Russia in the early 190o’s.

Prior to distillation, twigs are chopped into small pieces to pack the still as tightly.  The trees are harvest all year round, except when heavy snow causes problems with transportation.

The fragrance of the oil is sweet-green, slightly fruity and balsamic, and very reminiscent of the fresh needles. An absolute is also produced in France which is often referred to as Absolu d’Aiguilles.

Properties

• Analgesic.
• Antibiotic (buds)
• Antiseptic (buds and resin)
• Astringent. (resin)
• Balsamic (buds and resin)
• Decongestant.
• Deodorant
• Diuretic
• Expectorant and a bronchial sedative ( leaves and resin)
• Immuno-stimulant
• Rubefacient
• Stimulant and tonic.
• Vasoconstrictor and vulnerary.( resin)

Used to treat:

• Inhalation and vaporising help to stop the spread of infection such as colds and flu. In the same vein as a decongestant , Fir oil inhalation clears sinuses.
• Muscular aches and pains, arthritis, rheumatism, fluid retention and cellulite.
• Silver fir has a mild analgesic action that really seems to help ease stiff joints and muscles, whilst acting as a tonic to the whole system.

Emotional

This tonic helps boost the emotions:

• uplifting for depression,
• negativity,
• sadness,
• stress and nervous exhaustion.

It blends well with cypress, cedars, lavender, lemongrass, marjoram sweet, peppermint, rosemary, sandalwood, spearmint and most citrus oils.

 The entire tree is highly medicinal and provides a wealth of health giving remedies.

Together with Pine needle (Pinus sylvestris), silver fir is not very popular in aromatherapy despite its many benefits