Birch Tar Essential Oil
Birch Tar Essential Oil has an intense, smoky aroma with deep tarry and charred-wood notes. The scent is bold and long-lasting, often compared to a campfire or leather smoke, and is used sparingly to add depth and character to aromatic and fragrance blends.
Product Details
Bottled in the UK for freshness and traceability.
100% pure aromatic extract with no fillers, synthetics or additives.
Ethically sourced and cruelty free.
Vegan friendly.
Supplied in amber glass bottles to help protect the oil from light.
Botanical Information
Botanical Name: Betula pendula
Plant Part Used: Wood and bark
Extraction Method: Steam distillation of dry-distilled birch material
Aroma: Smoky, tar-like, leathery and woody
Consistency and Colour: Very thick, viscous liquid with a dark brown to black appearance
Shelf Life: Once opened, store in a cool, dark place and use within 12 months for best quality.
Aroma Profile
Birch Tar Essential Oil does not present distinct top or middle notes. Its aroma appears quickly and remains dominant for long periods.
Base notes: Heavy smoky tar, charred wood and leathery depth
Scent Family
Woody, smoky, earthy
How to Use Birch Tar Essential Oil
There are several ways to use Birch Tar Essential Oil as part of aromatic and craft-based routines. Due to its strength, it is always used in very small amounts.
Diffusion
Use with extreme restraint. One drop blended with other oils can add a smoky undertone to diffuser blends. It is usually combined with woods, resins or citrus oils rather than used alone.
Topical Use
Birch Tar Essential Oil must always be highly diluted before skin contact. Typical use is well below 1%, often around 0.1 to 0.5%, due to its intensity and potential to irritate. Carry out a patch test before any use and avoid sensitive areas.
Bathing
Only use when very well diluted in a carrier oil or dispersant. Even then, only trace amounts are recommended, and many users choose to avoid bath use entirely.
Massage
When used, Birch Tar Essential Oil is blended at very low levels into massage oils intended for post-activity or warming routines, primarily for its distinctive aroma rather than strength.
How to Dilute Birch Tar Essential Oil
Birch Tar Essential Oil requires much lower dilution than most essential oils.
For a 0.25% dilution, add 1 to 2 drops to 30 ml of carrier oil and mix thoroughly.
Do not exceed low concentrations unless advised by a qualified professional. Always carry out a patch test before broader application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin or history of this essential oil
Birch Tar has traditionally been produced in Northern and Eastern Europe through the dry distillation of birch wood and bark, where it was valued for its strong, smoky aroma and preservative qualities.
How is the oil produced
The aromatic material is obtained by distilling tar produced from birch wood and bark, resulting in a thick, smoky extract.
What does this essential oil smell like
It has a powerful tarry, smoky aroma with charred wood and leather-like notes.
Which oils blend well with it
Birch Tar Essential Oil blends well with cedarwood, pine, juniper, vetiver, labdanum and certain citrus oils, where it adds depth and a smoky accent.
How should the oil be stored
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, with the cap tightly closed. Cooler temperatures may make the oil thicker without affecting quality.
How is it best used
It is most commonly used in perfumery, incense, candles, soaps and specialty fragrance blends, where only very small amounts are required.
Is it safe for children or pets
Use around children or pets should be avoided unless guidance is provided by a qualified professional, as Birch Tar Essential Oil is extremely strong and can be irritating.
Precautions
FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY.
Do not apply undiluted to the skin.
Always use very low dilutions.
Avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Keep away from children.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Carry out a patch test before use.
Keep away from eyes.
Natural Variation Notice: This aromatic extract is 100% natural. Variations in colour, viscosity or aroma may occur between batches and do not affect quality.
Disclaimer: Individual experiences may vary. Seek professional advice if unsure before use.
