Silver fir (Abies alba) belongs to the Coniferae (Pinaeae) plant family and is related to Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris) and other pine tree family members. Silver fir has a number of synonyms including white spruce and European silver fir. Silver fir essential oil is not as widely used as Scotch pine essential oil but possesses some similar properties for aromatherapy use.
Botanical Description of Silver Fir
The silver fir tree is native to the countries of Northern Europe, particularly in the mountains; it is cultivated in Canada, Germany, France, Switzerland, Poland and Austria. The silver fir is a small, coniferous tree with a silver-white bark, hence its name. It is one of the fir tree species which is used for Christmas trees; the silver fir is also used for timber.
Extraction of Silver Fir Essential Oil
Essential oil is extracted from the silver fir tree through steam distillation of the needles and twigs; silver fir essential oil has a balsamic, rich, green aroma and is pale yellow or colorless. It is important to identify silver essential oil by its botanical name because many other fir species are commonly labeled by the general name "fir needle" oil.
Traditional Use of Silver Fir
Silver fir was popular in Europe because of its medicinal value; it was used to treat muscle pain, rheumatic pain, fever and respiratory problems. It is a popular fir needle oil in Europe and the U.S. because of its healing association with pine forests.
Use of Silver Fir in Aromatherapy
Silver fir has a number of properties which are used in aromatherapy; silver fir essential oil is used to treat arthritis, muscle pain, rheumatism, sinusitis, flu, bronchitis, coughs and colds. The properties of silver fir oil include:
- antiseptic
- analgesic
- expectorant
- stimulant
- deodorant
- immuno-stimulant.
Other Uses of Silver Fir
Silver fir is found as an ingredient in cough and cold pharmaceutical preparations and in remedies for rheumatism; it is commonly used as ingredient in room sprays, disinfectants, perfumes, soaps and deodorants because of its appealing aroma and its ability to banish unpleasant aromas. It can be used as an alternative to scotch pine.
Cautions for Using Silver Fir Essential Oil
Silver fir essential oil blends well with other pine oils, lavender, lemon and rosemary essential oils; it is not considered to be irritating or normally cause sensitization. It is also non-toxic. However, it is not advised to use silver fir essential oil in high quantities or undiluted on the skin. As is the case when using any essential oil, consult an experienced aromatherapist if unsure about a particular essential oil for a specific use.
References:
- Lawless, Julia 1999 The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils UK:Thorsons
- Penny Price Academy of Aromatherapy, UK
Sharon Falsetto - Sharon Falsetto is a business owner, certified clinical aromatherapist & professional writer with a life-long interest in plants.
