The magnificent silver fir tree could ideally be called “Doyen of the forests.” It deserves attention for its excellent geometrical appearance and extraordinary lifetime, up to 800 years. During all this time, the silver fir tree fills the forest air with its fresh turpentine aroma. It is beneficial for people suffering from bronchitis and asthma and pleasing while strolling around the forests.
- SILVER FIR ESSENTIAL OIL FOR DIFFUSER. Exuding a piney, camphoraceous fragrance, silver fir essential oil diffuser is a soothing scent that may remind some of a fresh woodland forest. Diffuse 2-3 drops for 30 minutes to create a calming atmosphere.
- NOURISHING FOR SKIN. Silver fir oil for skin has potential benefits that may improve the appearance of skin, providing deeper nourishment for skin. Mix 1-2 drops of silver fir essential oil for skin with carrier oil to level up your skincare game.
Today, the silver tree turpentine is being substituted by the pine tree since this is easier to harvest. Though its properties are very similar, the fir tree’s turpentine is usually more aromatic than the pine tree.
The resin of the fir tree, or turpentine, accumulates in spring under the bark and the buds. When the bark is cut, the resin flows, a liquid as fluid as oil, whose aroma resembles that of lemon but sour-flavored. This resin can be distilled, thus obtaining turpentine essence or turps.
Healing Properties and Warning
The whole plant contains tannin, essential oil, turpentine, and provitamin A. Turpentine is an oleoresin, which in external use has the following properties:
- Balsamic, antiseptic, and expectorant: It is recommended for respiratory airway afflictions, including sinusitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma. It eases mucus expulsion and regenerates the mucus membrane covering the respiratory airways.
- Revulsive (attracts the blood to the skin, decongesting the internal organs and tissues), antirheumatic, and vulnerary (heals wounds and bruises). It eases rheumatic aches, sciatica, lumbago, and torticollis. Reduces the inflammation of the sprained joints, as well as bruises and muscular pains in general. It also cleans infected wounds and skin sores.
- When taken orally, fir tree turpentine or its essence acts equally well on the respiratory organs. It also has diuretic and urinary antiseptic properties and is used to prevent the formation of calculi and sands in the urinary tract.
WARNING! The inhalation or ingestion of excessive doses of turpentine or its essence can irritate the central nervous system, especially in children.
Silver Fir Tree Scientific Facts
- French: Sapin blanc.
- Spanish: Abeto blanco.
- Environment: Mountainous regions of Central and South Europe. In America, same similar species grow.
- Description: A tree of the Pinaceae family, growing up to 50 meters high, with a straight trunk, smooth, greyish bark, male and female flowers on the same tree, pine cones of around five centimeters, which, when ripe, let the scales and the seeds fall. Its aroma resembles that of lemon, and its taste is sour.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The buds and the resin (turpentine).
How to use Silver Fir
- Infusion with 30-40 g of buds per liter of water, drinking three or four cups daily. The buds of the silver fir tree are sticky due to their significant turpentine content, especially during spring.
- Turpentine or its essence: Three to five drops, three times a day.
Externally: - Turpentine or its essence is applied in baths (alleviating those suffering from rheumatism or asthma), frictions, inhalations, and vapor inhalations.
Canadian Fir Tree
In North America, the Canadian fir tree grows from whose resin the so-called Canadian balm is obtained. This balm has the same properties as silver fir turpentine; thus, their medicinal applications are the same. Besides, the Canadian balm is used in microscopic laboratory examinations due to its unique optical characteristics.
- Has great abilities to purify the air
- Refresh Body, spirit and mind
- Improve clarity
Frequently Asked Questions
What are silver fir tree’s main bioactive compounds, and how do they work?
1. Essential oils (terpenes): These are primarily bornyl acetate, limonene, camphene, and alpha-pinene. These compounds offer anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potentially mood-boosting properties.
2. Polyphenols: Including flavonoids and tannins, which act as antioxidants, protecting against cellular damage.
Can silver fir tree preparations help with respiratory problems beyond the common cold?
Silver fir has historically been used in traditional medicine for various respiratory conditions. Limited studies suggest its essential oil, due to its expectorant and decongestant properties, may help with bronchitis and sinusitis.
Does the silver fir tree have any effects on the immune system?
In lab studies, silver fir extracts show immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate the immune response.
Are there any topical applications for the silver fir tree?
Yes. Diluted silver fir essential oil is traditionally used for:
1. Muscle soreness: May offer mild pain relief due to its anti-inflammatory actions.
2. Minor wound healing: Antiseptic properties could help prevent infection. Always consult a healthcare professional before using on broken skin.
How is the antioxidant power of the silver fir tree compared to other plants?
Several studies demonstrate that silver fir extracts possess vigorous antioxidant activity. The concentration of these compounds varies depending on the part of the plant used (needles, bark, etc.)
Are there potential interactions between silver fir and medications?
Possibly. It’s best to consult your doctor before using silver fir preparations, especially if you take any medications. Some compounds might interact with how the body breaks down certain drugs.
Can silver fir support mental health?
While not a primary treatment for mood disorders, the aroma of silver fir essential oil is believed to be calming and uplifting for some people. This aromatherapy benefit may contribute to overall stress reduction.
What forms of silver fir are used medicinally?
1. Essential oil: Primarily through diffusion or topical application (adequately diluted).
2. Herbal teas: Made from needles or bark.
3. Capsules/extracts: These offer a standardized dose of active compounds.
Are there any safety concerns with using silver fir?
Generally considered safe in small amounts. However:
1. High doses of essential oil can be irritating.
2. Avoid during pregnancy.
3. Do a patch test before widespread topical use.
Where can I find reliable information on high-quality silver fir products?
1. Reputable herbal medicine resources: Consult books or websites by qualified herbalists or naturopathic doctors.
2. Specialized suppliers: Look for companies that focus on ethically sourced, organic plants and offer lab analysis of their products.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 292,293. Print. [silver fir tree]
- WebMD https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-323/european-silver-fir
- RxList https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/fir.htm
Last update on 2024-05-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API