What is "Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Oil" and what is its utility?

Originating from the mountainous regions of Europe and temperate Asia, Scots pines are resinous trees with an ochre-red bark. They can reach heights of 40 metres and grow in mountainous areas. Their lifespan generally reaches 200 years, but some can live up to 500 years. When applied topically, Scots pine can be used for the production of turpentine oil to make rosin, which is used for bowed string instruments.

Theessential oil of Scots Pine is obtained by hydrodistillation (steam distillation) from the needles and pine cones of the tree. The principle involves heating a mixture of water and needles to evaporate the volatile molecules and collect them following condensation. This method allows for the extraction of two products, namely the hydrosol and the essential oil, with a low yield of 0.4 to 1%. The essential oil of Scots Pine presents itself as a colourless to pale yellow liquid with a fresh, resinous, woody scent. This essential oil primarily contains monoterpenes (about 40% of alpha-pinene, 30% limonene and 13% beta-pinene) and to a lesser extent esters (borneol acetate), sesquiterpenes (longifolene) and monoterpenols (borneol).

From a therapeutic perspective, the essential oil of Scots Pine acts as a decongestant for the respiratory system. When applied topically, it is generally used for its soothing action.

The virtues of Scots pine essential oil on the skin are numerous. This substance contains active molecules that soothe and mitigate the effects of skin inflammation. Its active principles also relieve the symptoms of skin sensitivity, namely itching. In some cases, treatments based on Scots pine extract can act on certain skin conditions such as eczema. Moreover, this essential oil has virtues that alleviate redness and burning sensations on the skin, hence its recommendation for soothing sunburn. Formulas containing Scots pine essential oil are also adopted to delay or mitigate the effects of ageing thanks to its antioxidant properties.

This essential oil is also energising and tonic. When applied topically, it thus alleviates fatigue and muscle pain. Its decongestant properties will help to prevent water retention and improve blood circulation, limiting the appearance of varicose veins. When applied to the hair, it invigorates the scalp and imparts a pleasant aromatic fragrance.