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The Book of Siberia
Chapter on Siberian Scents: Essential Oils
Posted 22 August

A chapter on how essential oils from Siberian plants make our health stronger and our life more beautiful...

When asked about the scent of Siberia, most would describe it as a refreshing blend of pine needles and natural freshness. The awe-inspiring fragrance of pine forests, the pristine snow, and untouched nature. Once you breathe in its scent, you will never forget it.

Siberia is a renowned treasure trove of natural wonders, boasting over 3,000 plant species, with more than 500 being medicinal and essential oil-bearing plants.

The beauty of these plants lies in their ability to subtly yet significantly influence people: Their pleasant aromas soothe, uplift moods, relieve headaches, and even improve appetite – all thanks to the wonders of their essential oils.

Essentially, they are volatile liquid mixtures of various chemical substances (alcohols, esters, hydrocarbons, phenols, ketones, aldehydes, etc.) extracted from different parts of plants, such as flowers, seeds, roots, leaves, fruits, wood, or resin. Essential oils play a vital role in determining the scent of plants. They serve as a defense mechanism, protecting plants from pests and viruses, while also attracting insects for pollination purposes.

Herbal Pharmacy

Essential oils derived from plants have numerous benefits for both nature and humans. Their therapeutic properties have been known since ancient times. Almost all of them have a bactericidal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect on our body. They have a positive effect on the nervous and cardiovascular systems, emotions, and mental health.

Today, essential oils are utilized both internally and externally, finding application in various forms such as inhalations, topical use, and aromatherapy. Oils of Siberian essential oil-bearing plants are widely used in the production of medicines, as well as in the food, cosmetics and perfume industries.

How Fir Oil Is Produced

Essential oils are produced in different ways: For example, by extraction with ether, warm oil, or fat sorbent.

Essential oils from conifers are obtained by steam distillation. To extract fir oil, coniferous twigs with a diameter of up to 0.8 cm are utilized along with steam at a temperature of approximately 110 °C. It is worth noting that there exists a specialized apparatus known as a "fir cooking machine" designed specifically for the production of fir oil.

The twigs are placed inside a distillation chamber where pressurized steam is fed. As the steam passes through the raw material, it causes the evaporation of volatile compounds (esters). As a result, the steam enriched with esters condenses into a liquid, collected in a separate container, and later separated into two parts: the upper portion is the essential oil, and the lower portion is the hydrolate.

Fir oil is rich in over 35 active substances, which contribute to its numerous beneficial effects: Toning, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, pain-relieving, immune-strengthening, skin-healing, and sleep-normalizing properties. And the fragrance of fir oil is a complete perfume composition itself!

Essential Oils in Siberian Wellness Products

Siberian Wellness products contain only natural essential oils. Extra Rich Massage Balsam incorporates the beneficial properties of fir oil and other Siberian herbs. When applied externally, it provides a warming sensation, promotes faster recovery, and restores a sense of comfort to the skin.

Coniferous essential oils can also be found in various other products:

Renowned representatives of essential oil-bearing plants

Oregano is famous for its specific pleasant aroma. The essential oil of oregano is believed to have calming properties and may help with insomnia.

Thyme essential oil, used by the ancient Greeks, is renowned for its potent antiseptic, antiviral, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties. Its scent soothes and relieves fatigue.

Chamomile essential oil has a strong bactericidal effect, so it is widely used to treat colds. Due to its rich composition, it is particularly beneficial for the delicate and sensitive skin of children.

Peppermint essential oil is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. Its components have an antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, gently stimulate bowel motility, relieve stress, and aid in restoring strength.

Many essential oils of Siberian plants are now available in pharmacies, so they are actively used in everyday life: in cooking, as additional skin care, and in everyday life. When using any essential oil, it is important to know and consider its properties and required doses. Then the application will be beneficial and joyful!