Pine
- jenn
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
The mighty Pine tree - one of nature's "do it all" plants . With roots in traditional herbal medicine and ancient spiritual symbolism, to being essential for everyday necessities such as paper and lumber, the long standing usefulness of this tree is almost unmatched!
The first thing that probably comes to mind when you think of this tree is Christmas or Yule. This is understandable, the Pine tree is an iconic symbol for this time of year! But historically, this tree has been used for much more than just a holiday decoration. Hippocrates (the greek physician) mentions using the bark for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties for various aliments, while using the resin as an antiseptic for wounds. First Nations people primarily used all parts of the tree for respiratory issues, and the wood for building material. These examples barely scratch the surface of the vast versatility of this extortionary tree.
There are now 126 confirmed species of Pine found growing all throughout the Northern Hemisphere, but not all species are used for medicinal purposes. It is worth noting that there are some evergreens that are toxic (the Yew tree), so it's important to properly identify the tree before harvesting it for any uses. Pines are generally long living (the oldest recorded is around 4,000 years old), and can grow from 10 to 260 feet tall! Many cultures regard them as wise, sacred trees for this reason. Pre-Christian Scandinavian and Northern European traditions honor evergreens (especially around Winter Solstice time) because of their symbolic ties to longevity, hope, and perseverance. Many Native tribes also used Pine as a beacon for long lasting life and wisdom - they frequently utilized the wood for Teepee poles, building canoes, and burned various parts of the tree for use as incense. In Korean traditions they worship the tree for prosperity and good health, while Pagans used it to ward off negativity and invoke courage and strength. As you can see, there are many overlapping traits across countries and centuries, as medicine and magic. From folklore and fairy tails to modern day décor, Pine is truly "that girl".
Botanical name: Pinus spp.
Plant Family: Pinaceae
Energetics: warm, dry, moistening
Actions: stimulating diuretic, stimulating expectorant, stimulating diaphoretic, modulates inflammation, nutrient–dense food, vulnerary, antimicrobial
Taste: pungent, bitter, sour
Affinities: skin, mouth, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, immune system
Parts used: bark, needles, resin (pitch), seeds, pollen
Possible uses:
congestion
cold and flu symptoms
splinters
skin wounds
circulation
muscle / nerve pain
aromatherapy
Preparations:
resin infused oils / salves
tea / decoctions
incense
food
tincture
-- Safety & precautions --
You should not use Pine if:
You have upcoming surgery
You have a bleeding disorder
You are allergic to plants in this family
You are pregnant or breast feeding
Do not give to children
Do not use if taking the following:
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet drugs
Anti-diabetes drugs
Immunosuppressants
Hypotension meds (blood pressure)
Chemotherapy Medications
Generally considered safe - the appropriate dose depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and other conditions. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist, physician, or other healthcare professional before using.
Disclaimer:
I am not a medical professional and this web site does not constitute providing medical advice or services. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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