Rectified birch tar oil – the scent of Russian leather

The characteristic aroma of rectified birch tar oil, a pale to dark brown liquid fragrance ingredient, makes it a popular choice for cosmetics and perfume applications.

Rectified birch tar oil has often been described as smelling like ‘Russian leather’. That makes sense, because historically it was the oil used to tan leather in Russia.

Therefore, it’s strictly more correct to say that Russian leather smells like rectified birch tar oil, and as a fragrance ingredient birch tar can bring that same scent to other products too.

Russia is not the only country with a long-held association with the production of birch tar oil; countries along the Baltic coastline were the main source of birch tar oil for many years.

Zanos now supply rectified birch tar oil from Payan Bertrand, which is produced in Finland. As a tar-derived product, it can be harvested from birch trees all year round.

Unlike the original birch tar, the rectified oil is purified, clear and free from solids like flakes of carbon.

About Betula pendula

Birch tar oil is derived from slow destructive distillation of the bark of the birch tree, botanical name Betula pendula R.

The tree is commonly known as silver birch, as well as white birch in parts of Europe and East Asia, and sometimes as warty birch.

It is commonly classified as ‘least concern’ in terms of conservation status and is even considered an invasive species in some areas where it has been introduced in North America.

The bark of the birch tree has been used for a variety of different purposes historically.

In addition to its use as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics, the resin in the bark can also be used to light fires and as glue – and in tanning, with regards to the Russian leather connection.

The bark itself has also been used for roof shingles, as well as in crafts for making containers and shoes.

Order rectified birch tar oil

Many different types of containers can be used for storing birch tar oil, including glass, plastic and aluminium, and should be filled as far as possible and well-sealed.

It’s best to store in cool, dark conditions, at less than 18C, for up to 18 months.

To place an order for Payan Bertrand rectified birch tar oil contact your Zanos representative today. Email webenquiries@zanos.co.uk or speak to our Sales Specialists on 01565 755899.