Common name: Sitka Spruce
Latin name: Picea sitchensis
I am always interested in essential oils that contain beta-myrcene as part of their chemical make-up. The most recent Sitka Spruce we imported from one of our French distillers has 23.5% beta-myrcene. The research on beta-myrcene indicates that the component offers analgesic, anti-inflammatory and CNS (Central Nervous System) sedative effects.
We consider oils high in β-myrcene to be good pain killers, and tend to use them in our blends to reduce pain. Sitka Spruce is one of these oils. It has an earthy, woody aroma that I love. It is also indicated for people suffering from respiratory issues such as allergies, colds, the flu or sinus infections. If the sinuses are inflamed and there are aches and pains related to it, Sitka is a great choice. (We also use Mastic essential oil which can have a content of 50% beta-myrcene.)
Below is a great stock blend for cold and flu. Several drops of this blend can be used in a diffuser or can be added to a carrier such as a bath salt, inhaler, jojoba, lotion or salt scrub.
Cold and Flu Blend (found on the Sitka Spruce page)
10 drops Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis)
10 drops Juniper (Juniperus communis)
10 drops Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
20 drops Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora ct 1,8 cineole)
See the recipe page on Aromatics International for other cold and flu blends
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Grea timing! Having been away for two weeks, one in Chicago and one in New York, I have a list of people that would like to try inhalers for sinus in particular. Once folks turn on their heat, the trouble begins. For those who experience significant pain, would you recommend adding Mastic to this blend? Or one of the linalol/ linalyl acetate oils?Thanks, Patti
Hi Patti- good idea to add Mastic to the blend, and also linalol/ linalyl acetate oils. We have 5 of these oils on Aromaticsinternational.com:
Neroli/Petitgrain
Petitgrain
Bergamot Mint
Linaloe berry
Lavender