Birch Tar (Rectified) (Betula pendula) is a woody essential oil with a smoky, leathery, tarry aroma and a base note. Dry distillation from bark, it is a versatile blending oil. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 1%.
Destructive distillation of birch bark. THE Russian leather ingredient. ONLY rectified form is safe.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Woody |
| Chemical family | Phenol |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Dry distillation |
| Plant part | bark |
| Blending factor | 2 |
| Volatility index | 5 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 36.0 |
Safety & dilution
Contains PAHs (carcinogenic) in unrectified form. ONLY rectified birch tar should be used. IFRA restricted.
| Max topical dilution | 1% |
| Max facial dilution | 0.5% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Nursing | Not recommended |
| Children | Not recommended for young children |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Not recommended |
Safety flags
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Birch Tar (Rectified) essential oil smell like?
Birch Tar (Rectified) has a smoky, leathery, tarry, medicinal aroma, classed as a woody oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Birch Tar (Rectified)?
For topical use, keep Birch Tar (Rectified) at or below 1%, and 0.5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Birch Tar (Rectified) safe to use during pregnancy?
Birch Tar (Rectified) is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.
Is Birch Tar (Rectified) safe to use around children?
Birch Tar (Rectified) is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Birch Tar (Rectified) safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — avoid; not considered safe. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.