Birch Oil

Chemical properties

The essential oil is obtained from the B. alba and B. pendula Roth.

Physical properties

The essential oil of B. alba L. is a viscous, yellow liquid with a balsamic odor. It is obtained from buds by steam distillation in 3.5 to 8% yields. The oil solidifies at low temperature because of its paraffin content. The essential oil of B. alba L. var. pubescens Ehrl., obtained from buds in 3.5% yields by steam distillation, has a specific gravity of 0.9779. The essential oil of B. alba I. obtained from bark is recovered in 0.4 to 0.5% yields. The essential oil obtained from leaves is recovered in 0.4 to 0.5% yields.

Occurrence

Found in the tar of the bark and wood of Betula pendula Roth (fam. Betulaceae).

Preparation

By steam-distillation of the tar obtained by dry distillation of the bark and the wood of Betula pendula Roth (fam. Betulaceae).

Definition

Extractives and their physically modified derivatives. Betula alba, Betula pendula and Betula pubescens, Betulaceae.

Safety Profile

A skin irritant. Moderatelyirritating to eyes and mucous membranes. A mild allergen.Combustible when exposed to heat or flame; can reactwith oxidizing materials.