There’s a good reason so many cleaning products are made with the scent of pine. This connection between essential pine oil and good health is quite old and is related to its disinfectant properties that attack germs. 

This oil was revered by the father of Western medicine, Hippocrates, who noted its substantial healing effect on the human respiratory system. Similarly, ancient people used pine bark in their bedding to ward off bed bugs and lice.

Pine essential oil is obtained by extracting the essential oils from the thorns and splinters of the pine trunk. Pine extract is antiseptic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, insecticidal, diuretic, analgesic, aromatic, and anti-inflammatory.

Pine essential oil benefits

Its disinfecting ability is related to its high levels of phenolic acids, plant chemicals that fight germs and prevent disease. It also has a healing effect on the endocrine system and helps clean body impurities from the skin.

1. Powerful anti-inflammatory

Due to its powerful analgesic properties, pine essential oil acts as an anti-inflammatory for people with joint pain, arthritis and rheumatism. Used topically, it can also help relieve general muscle pain. Add it to a warm bath or massage the diluted oil into the painful spot for a calming effect.

2. Expectorants

Pine essential oil can also help relieve congestion and act as an expectorant, helping clear body mucus from the lungs.

3. Skincare

This oil can help treat various skin conditions due to its solid antiseptic ability. Skin problems can be cured, including psoriasis, acne, boils, athlete’s foot, itching, and eczema. It should apply topically, but it can also be used as a scalp remedy, especially in cases of dandruff. To be used on the skin, it is necessary to dilute the oil, do not use it purely on the skin.

4. Acts as an antiviral agent

Pine oil may also help protect against the common cold and flu. A balanced diet and increased consumption of foods rich in vitamin C is also an excellent way to prevent colds.

5. Antioxidant capacity

By neutralizing free radicals, pine oil helps us slow down the process of cell deterioration, thus delaying the ageing process. Antioxidants help protect against eye disease, macular degeneration, and many nervous system disorders.

6. Antifungal and antibacterial properties

Regular use of pine oil can help protect against many fungal infections. It also has antibacterial properties. This essential oil can help prevent common bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections and skin infections.

7. Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy stimulates the body and mind and has an energetic effect on the person. It is also used to help treat adrenal fatigue and mild depression.

8. Sanitizer

It is a great cleaning agent and can be added to room sprays (good air) and air purifiers. Pine oil is a very effective disinfectant in killing germs, including mould, fungus, and bacteria like Escherichia coli.

9. Treat respiratory infections

Studies have shown the usefulness of essential pine oil in bronchial infections. As a powerful antibacterial and antiseptic agent, it can help the body fight infection. Can use aromatherapy to help prevent respiratory infections such as bronchitis.

Research at the University of Maryland Medical Center (USA) has shown that its use for respiratory tract infections is very effective. Research also shows that essential pine oil can fight colds when used as a steam inhalation.

Pine oil side effects and precautions

You must use essential pine oil carefully as it is powerful. If used undiluted, it can irritate the skin and mucous membranes. Internal consumption can be dangerous to human health and should be avoided.

How to use

There are several ways to use this oil to promote health. To treat respiratory problems, try adding 4-6 drops of warm undiluted pine essential oil to your bath water or dilute it 50/50 with organic coconut oil or olive oil and apply it to the chest to soothe respiratory difficulties. You can also put it in an aroma diffuser for aromatherapy. Or do steam inhalations.

It is essential to correctly follow the instructions for use described on the packaging and the manufacturer’s or seller’s recommendations.