Birch Oil Uses and Benefits

Birch essential oil is a rare woodland treasure, but one that is well worth the trouble to obtain. Because the bark of birch trees yields such a limited amount of precious essential oil, the greater essential oil industry has turned to synthetic alternatives and deceptively labeled wintergreen in place of a pure birch product. However, doTERRA embarked on the long and intensive journey to develop a sustainable, long-term supply of Birch essential oil. The result speaks for itself.

When used aromatically, the powerful, minty aroma of Birch can promote a fresh, invigorating atmosphere as well as manage odours and refresh the air. When used topically, Birch renders a cooling sensation on the skin and helps maintain a healthy-looking complexion.

How Do I Use Birch Oil?

Aromatic

The aroma of Birch is crisp, energizing, and minty. Its refreshingly sharp scent can promote a stimulating, uplifting environment. You only need a drop or two of Birch to experience its potent aromatic benefits.

The powerful aroma of Birch can also effectively mask odours. Put a few drops on a cotton ball and place it in your gym bag, shoes, and other spots that tend to accumulate less-than-pleasant smells.

Topical

Birch essential oil provides a cooling sensation topically, making it especially effective for massage. Try rubbing it into your back and legs before or after exercise.

Birch can also promote healthy-looking skin. Gently apply it to help reduce the appearance of blemishes. Birch is a sensitive essential oil, so make sure to dilute it with a carrier oil or lotion beforehand.

Get more usage tips at Do It Yourself with Birch Oil.

Fun Facts

• dōTERRA® Birch comes from the bark of the Betula lenta tree—also called black birch, cherry birch, and sweet birch.
• Birch has a similar chemical makeup to Wintergreen, but Birch is more nuanced with a papery, lightly minty, sweet, and slightly woody aroma.

What is Birch Oil?

The Betula lenta, also known as black birch, cherry birch, or sweet birch, is a tree native to the United States and Canada. The birch tree can grow up to be about 24 meters tall and is often recognized for its pale, peeling bark. Once it is stripped from the trunk, the precious bark is then steam distilled to produce Birch essential oil.

Due to the complexity of raw material preparation and distillation, Birch essential oil is typically only available in small volumes which makes sourcing pure, unadulterated Birch a difficult task. However, after a long, dedicated search, the doTERRA Sourcing Team found a U.S. family from Pennsylvania that sustainably sources pure Birch essential oil. Thanks to this collaborative team effort, doTERRA Birch essential oil is among the highest quality commercial products available.

Learn more at Behind the Bottle: Sourcing Birch

Birch vs. Wintergreen

While both wintergreen and birch are high in methyl salicylate, there are some differences between these oils. Birch has more phenol compounds in it, and phenols have skin-cleansing benefits. Wintergreen comes from the leaf of the wintergreen plant, which means it contains a higher terpene content.

Terpenes give essential oils their distinct aromas, which can create a relaxing or uplifting atmosphere. They also contribute to a soothing massage, especially after a strenuous workout.

What Essential Oils Blend Well with Birch Oil?

The invigorating, minty aroma of Birch essential oil pairs well with Spearmint oil, Ylang Ylang oil, Marjoram oil, Cypress oil, and AromaTouch®.

Cautions