Pine trees adorn forests throughout the country, but did you know they offer more than natural privacy and year-round greenery? Pine needles are filled with antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, according to a study published in the July 2012 edition of the “Journal of Food Sciences.” For generations, pine needle tea has been consumed by indigenous peoples as a decongestant, expectorant and an antiseptic wash. In fact, pine needles have up to five times more vitamin C than freshly squeezed orange juice. Enhance your health, while learning a new skill, by gathering and making pine needle tea.
As a rule of thumb, the younger and greener the needles, the more concentrated its medicinal compounds. The ideal needles are less than three-inches long. Don’t choose needles from a pine that lines a roadway or in a highly-populated area as they may be sprayed with pesticides or other toxic chemicals. The best needles come from pines found deep in the forest. Put your hiking boots on and enjoy a day in the country while searching for healthy pine trees.
While pine needle tea can boost your health, be careful what trees you choose. While the majority of pine trees are fine for consumption, make sure you steer clear from:
In additional to the aforementioned, stay away from:
**I am not entirely sure why, but it is recommended that pine needle tea should not be drunk if pregnant or breast feeding**