Essential Oil of the Month: Douglas Fir
Crisp, clear, chilly days: What better essential oil to spotlight for December than the quintessential Christmas Tree, Douglas Fir, with its purifying, uplifting, and refreshing scent? Evoking the joy of Christmastime as well as the calmness of a walk in the woods, Douglas fir creates a sense of peace and focus.
Named after the Scottish botanist who discovered it in 1824-7, David Douglas, Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), bark, resin and needles (leaves) were used by many indigenous tribes for its medicinal and cleansing properties in herbal treatments and sweat lodges.*1. Douglas fir is one of the tallest conifer trees (with records as tall as 300 feet!) and is considered the strongest softwood. According to the Greek Philosopher Plato, the plant body has a direct correspondence to the human body. Using that theory, it is easy to see that the strength of this tree could correlate (and thereby improve) the strength of the human body.
Douglas Fir essential oil also has antiseptic properties and supports the respiratory system, making it a perfect choice for use in a diffuser, especially at this time of year when colds and flu are prevalent. It helps us breathe!
Diffuser oil suggestion:
2 drops of Douglas Fir
2 drops Sweet Orange
1 drop Ylang ylang (optional)
Douglas Fir can also help those tired, sore muscles and joints. For a massage oil, try the following:
1 drop of Cedarwood or Frankincense essential oil
2 drops Bergamot
2 drops Douglas Fir
Add to 1oz massage oil or lotion and massage achy areas. Avoid the eyes, face, etc.
Featured Tree of Life Products
CAUTIONS:
Although generally considered safe for adults, there is a possibility of skin sensitivity. Always use properly diluted on skin. For external use only. Do not use on children under the age of 6.
*1) Arno, Stephen F.; Hammerly, Ramona P. (2020) [1977].Northwest Trees: Identifying & Understanding the Region's Native Trees(field guide ed.)
"Douglas Fir" (PDF). Retrieved 2020-02-21.