Betula lenta from which Mahogany Birch essential oil is distilled should not to be confused with white birch or birch tar and is also and variously known as Black Birch, Sweet Birch, Cherry Birch, or Spice Birch. It is a native to North America and quite often confused with Wintergreen which is now used more often as its aroma and actions are very similar in many respects.
Reported Attributes of Mahogany Birch Essential Oil:-
Mahogany Birch Essential Oil is anti inflammatory so is frequently used in rheumatism and joint pain therapies. It has historical use as being good for treating psoriasis, gout, ulcers, and broken bones. It is also mildy diuretic.
History of Mahogany Birch:-
Cherokee and other first nation tribes chewed the birch leaves for dysentery and used the birch bark tea for colds, dysentery, milky urine, and stomach ailments. Iroquois, in particular, used birch bark for colds, fever, soreness, and venereal diseases (although the latter one presumes it had little effect upon)
CAUTIONS: Use this oil sparingly on the skin and as with all essential oils, well diluted. Large dosages may cause skin sensitivity and irritation. Not suitable for the very young because of its naturally occurring constituents, methylsalicylate, betulin and betulinic acid .