Pine Needle essential oil was investigated by Hippocrates, considered the father of Western medicine, for its beneficial effects on the respiratory system ~ it has a long history of medicinal use.

Pine essential oil has been noted for its antiseptic properties, and is noted of particular importance by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt in Advanced Aromatherapy as a perfect diffuser oil for cases of bronchial infection. Battaglia notes in The Complete Book of Aromatherapy that "Pine needle oil is extensively used in pharmaceutical preparations for cough and cold medicines, vaporizing fluids, nasal decongestants and analgesic ointments." Pine is mentioned as a tonic for the lungs, kidneys and the nervous system."

Pine oil has been used for sore joints and muscles, and shares many of the same properties of Eucalyptus Globulus; blending these oils together is said to enhance the effectiveness of both. Balsam Fir needle also makes an excellent addition to such a formula.

This pure pine essential oil has a wonderful earthy and forest-like aroma. The influence is thought to ease mental stress and anxiety, remove unwanted odors, and revitalize the mind and body. Pine is noted by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt as an important addition to blends for rejuvenating the adrenal glands.

One of our favorite diffuser blends for simple aromatic enjoyment is a combination of evergreen needle oils in virtually any ratio. Just put a few drops of one or more of the following oils in your diffuser: Pine, Spruce, Black Spruce, and Balsam Fir, plus a tiny bit of Juniper Berry and you'll find yourself in the middle of Forest Heaven. (At least we do! :-) Because these oils are from within a similar family, one needn't worry too much about getting an exact recipe, unless of course you really want to recreate a favorite combination.