The history of using pine needles for healing invites us to consider another approach to wellness.
Native Americans considered white pine trees the “Tree of Peace.” Taoist Priests believed pine tea would help them live longer. People have drank pine needle tea for centuries to both prevent illness and treat coughs and colds.
In West Virginia white pine, red pine, and Virginia pine are great to gather and prepare from. In fact, most pine trees are completely edible with the exception of lodgepole, Norfolk, ponderosa, and yew, which are toxic.
Pine Needles
Pine needles are an effective natural remedy for colds and respiratory ailments.
Pine needles act as an expectorant, drawing phlegm and mucus out of the lungs, and have antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties.
They contain high levels of vitamin C, about 5 times more than oranges and lemons, which helps boost the immune system.
They are also rich in Vitamin A which is great for your eyesight, skin, hair, and red blook cell production.
More great benefits!
- Increase circulation which helps oxygen reach all body parts and systems.
- boost energy
- mental clarity and clearness
- fights illness & infection
- slows aging process
- supports digestion
- activates collogen production
- balances testosterone levels
- antidepressant
Health Benefits of Pine Oil
Recipes
Pine Needle Infused Oil
- harvest 1 cup pine needles in your area or try white pine needles prepared for purchase.
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon castor oil or castor seed oil
1. Cut the pine needles into 1 inch pieces.
2.Place in a pint jar and cover with olive oil and castor oil.
3. Cover with a lid and place in a cool, dark place (pantry or cabinet) for 6 weeks.
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use the double boiler method on the stove for 3-4 hours. (put a smaller pan, bowl, or glass measuring cup in a larger pan with an inch or two of water in it and bring the water to a simmer.)
Pine Needle Salve
- 1 cup pine infused oil
- 1/4 cup of beeswax
- 25 drops pine oil (optional)
Using double boiler Method:
1. Measure out 1 cup of the pine-infused oil
2. Put the oil into a wide mouth jar in the double boiler. Add the beeswax to the oil and continue to heat on low until it completely melts. Then, remove the mixture from the heat.
- Quickly stir in the essential oil drops if using.
- Quickly and carefully pour the salve mixture into tins or jars.
- Let the salve sit undisturbed until it is completely cooled and set up before use.
TIP: to test the firmness of the salve before pouring, place a metal spoon in the freezer while melting the beeswax. When the beeswax has melted, dip the frozen spoon in the jar. The wax consistency will immediately come out on the spoon.
- For a softer wax, add extra oil
- For a firmer wax, add more beeswax.
Pine Needle Tea
Harvest any time of the year, however young pine is less bitter due to containing fewer tannons.
- Wash and cut pine needles to 1 inch.
- Add TBSP to tea infuser and let steep 10-15 minutes.
- optional additions: lemon, honey
- cardamom, cinnamon, clover, ginger
Pine Multi-Purpose Cleaner
- Simply cut and pack a jar with fresh pine.
- Cover the pine with white vinegar.
- Cover with a lid and place in a cool, dark place (pantry or cabinet) for 4-6 weeks. Shake once a week or occasionally.
- strain the vinegar into a glass spray bottle.
- optional: add 25 drops of pine essential oil
Healing Starts from the Inside Out
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