Pine Needle Tea Benefits, Harvesting Tips & Recipe

In the bitter winter of 1536, deep in the wilds of North America, morale was low. The French explorer Jacques Cartier and his crew, weakened by months at sea, began to suffer the devastating effects of scurvy. Cartier's group was struggling with no access to fresh fruits and vegetables, and their bodies were starved of the crucial nutrients needed to survive. 

Just when all hope seemed lost, the Iroquois people living in the area came to offer a gift. They prepared a potent tea, crafted from the needles and bark of an evergreen they called “Annedda” or, as some would later refer to it, the “Tree of Life.” As the group drank the warm infusion, strength returned to their bodies. Rich in vitamin C and vital compounds, this earthy tea was a lifesaving elixir that revived Cartier’s crew, allowing them to endure the harsh winter. [1]

To this day, the true identity of “Annedda” remains a mystery, though many believe it to be a type of Pine; since one tribal name for White Pine is “Ohnehta.” Yet, its legacy as a powerful natural remedy endures. The mighty Pine tree, steeped in Indigenous wisdom and centuries-old knowledge, remains a powerful source of healing, offering a wealth of health benefits, from immune support to respiratory health and so much more. Pine has found its way into many types of aromatic medicine, offering up its needles, resin, and bark as forms of traditional medicine utilized in incense, tea, herbal steams, salves, and more.

In this blog article, you’ll learn the benefits of Pine needle tea, plus other ways you can incorporate Pine into your life. We’ll explore the vast health benefits of Pine and how it has been traditionally used as both an aromatic medicine and healing remedy for ages. We’ll also guide you through the process of how to harvest Pine needles sustainably and ethically. Let’s dive in!

Pine trees, majestic evergreens of the Pinus genus, range from the humble Dwarf Pine, standing only 10 feet tall, to the towering Ponderosa Pine, which can reach heights of up to 260 feet. Known for their remarkable resilience, Pines often live for centuries, and some species endure for millennia. In California’s White Mountains, one extraordinary specimen was recorded at an astonishing 4,900 years old.

With over 100 species worldwide, Pine trees thrive across diverse landscapes, from mountainous regions and boreal forests to coastal areas and even high deserts. Their adaptability and endurance have made them a symbol of strength in nature, while their diversity gives each species unique qualities.

Throughout history, many – though not all – Pine species have been prized for their medicinal and aromatic properties. Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) is the most common source of Pine essential oil, while White Pine (Pinus strobus), Pinyon Pine (Pinus cembroides), and Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) are also valued for their distinctive uses in traditional aromatic medicine. These species, and other Pines, have been revered across cultures, often seen as sacred trees, their wood used in temples and places of worship.

The needles, resin, and seeds of Pine trees have long been harvested for food, incense, perfumery, and medicine. Pine nuts nestled inside the cones have been a wild food for ages, and even their fresh needle tips, which have a bright, tangy flavor, are edible. From the fragrant needles and aromatic Pine essential oil to the treasured Pine resin, Pine trees are gifts from nature, offering beauty, sustenance, and healing across cultures and centuries.

To many Native Americans and First Nations peoples, Pine has been an important tree resembling wisdom and longevity for ages. Many tribes have long used the resin and needles of Pine for spiritual and physical protection. As natural incense, Pine helps cleanse and purify the air when burned, reducing the amount of pathogens in the atmosphere, thanks to its antiseptic properties. Pine is also considered to be energetically cleansing, grounding, and purifying.

Pine is renowned for its airy and clarifying presence. The invigorating aroma of Pine has been historically associated with uplifting mood, boosting mental clarity, and purification. In many cultures, using Pine as aromatic medicine is thought to cleanse the mind of intrusive thoughts, circular thinking, and negative patterns that no longer serve a purpose. The crisp, refreshing essence of Pine is believed to uplift the spirit, offering clarity of thought and a renewed sense of purpose.

In addition to being used as incense, Pine resin is a powerful plant that is celebrated for its antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties which help skin heal quickly, reduce the risk of infection, and soothe irritation. This versatile substance, commonly incorporated into topical salves, is excellent for addressing minor wounds, cuts, scrapes, burns, and various skin irritations. Beyond its first-aid uses, Pine resin is also valued for relieving pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis, rheumatism, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Many cultures have used it traditionally on wounds to prevent infection, speed healing, and draw out impurities due to its adhesive nature. 

The aroma of Pine is also well-known and utilized for its benefits to the respiratory system. Native American cultures traditionally use Pine as herbal steam and incense for soothing respiratory issues, including relieving asthma and bronchitis, clearing the sinuses, and addressing respiratory infections. Today, many cough drops and syrups are made using Pine extract for their ability to open the lungs, improve breathing, fight bacterial infections, and clear congestion. Another popular Pine preparation is traditional Pine tip tea. Let’s explore the many benefits of Pine needle tea!

Pine needles are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, treasured for centuries in aromatic medicine for their immune-boosting properties. Notably, they’re packed with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health by protecting cells from damage. In addition to Vitamin C, Pine needles contain other antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols, which help neutralize free radicals that can lead to inflammation and weaken the immune system. 

Pine needles also carry compounds with potential anti-inflammatory effects, helping reduce chronic inflammation that can put a strain on immunity. Their aromatic compounds further enhance immune support with antimicrobial properties, helping the body fend off infections and promoting overall resilience.

As you sip Pine needle tea, you breathe in its aromatic compounds rising from the steam, enjoying similar respiratory benefits as when Pine is used as incense. These vapors work to open the sinuses and breathing pathways, making Pine needle tea benefits especially supportive for respiratory health. Known for easing sinus and bronchial congestion, coughs, asthma, and bronchitis, Pine needle tea helps break up congestion and soothes respiratory infections, coughs, sore throats, and symptoms of colds and flu.

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The aroma of Pine is considered balancing, nourishing, softening, and harmonizing. It can help create a sense of equilibrium in the nervous system, promoting a balanced emotional state and reducing feelings of nervous tension. It is often associated with uplifting and mood-enhancing effects and may help elevate mood and alleviate feelings of sadness or depression, creating a more positive mental state.

These calming qualities help quell the “squirrel brain,” or circular thinking that is not beneficial, but rather, contributes to stress and anxiety. Pine promotes a sense of quietening, offering a peace and stillness that is like a “calm in the storm.” The aroma of Pine contains chemical compounds like bornyl acetate, pinene, limonene, and terpenes which are known to boost anti-oxidant and anti-stress qualities, helping to reduce the amount of cortisol (stress hormone) in the body. This can help reduce stress and anxiety and promote an overall sense of ease.

With the wide distribution of Pine species across the globe, chances are you’ll find some varieties growing in your local environment. One of the best things about harvesting Pine needles is their year-round availability. They’re among the few herbal medicines that can be gathered in winter – just when their immune-boosting benefits are needed most!

However, it’s important to note that proper identification is key before using any part of the tree. While many Pine species are commonly used for aromatic medicine, not all of them are deemed safe for internal use. Plus, many conifers have similar appearances – and some are considered toxic, like the Yew tree (Taxus spp.).

The most common Pine species used for Pine needle tea benefits is the Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus). Other Pines that are sometimes used in tea include Japanese Red Pine (Pinus densiflora) and Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa), however, Ponderosa Pine needles have been known to cause abortions in cattle when consumed, so it is generally recommended to be avoided during pregnancy. We encourage you to do your own research on the Pines growing in your area. Never consume any plant unless you’re certain you've properly identified it and it’s safe.  

To minimize harm to both the tree and its ecosystem, it’s important to use ethical and sustainable wild harvesting methods. Proper identification is key – not only for safety but also to ensure you’re not unnecessarily harvesting plants that won’t be used. Gather only what you need, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. A trusty local tree identification guidebook, particularly one with clear color illustrations and comprehensive regional information, is an invaluable tool for this. When in doubt, it’s safest to avoid harvesting altogether and consult with a professional.

Before harvesting, take a moment to observe the surrounding area. Don’t harvest from a tree that appears stressed or unhealthy, and ensure that the species is abundant in the area. Rather than taking large amounts from a single tree, gather small amounts from several trees, much like pruning to promote the tree’s long-term health. Always aim to harvest in a way that encourages the tree’s future growth without causing harm.

As you venture out into the forest, bring scissors or garden shears and a paper bag or basket for collection. Look for freshly fallen branches to harvest from. If you can’t find any, use your scissors to snip the base of the evergreen needles or branches. Try to cut at the node – the area on a stem where buds are located – to help stimulate future growth. It’s okay to take one small branch from a few different trees, just be sure to cut at the base of the branch.

Brewing Pine needle tea, also known as an herbal infusion, is a wonderful, tasty way to receive its high amounts of nutrients – especially since Pine needles are rich in Vitamin C, which is water soluble. 

1. Chop up the Pine needles with a knife to release their flavors and aromatic compounds.


2. Add the Pine needles to your teapot or strainer in your tea mug. The amount of plant material used can vary depending on your personal preference. As a general guideline, use about 1-2 tablespoons of dried plant material per 16 ounces (2 cups) of water.


3. Heat the water to just below boiling temperature. 


4. Carefully pour the hot water over the needles and ensure the plant material is fully submerged in the water. 


5. To reduce the evaporation of precious volatile oils, be sure to cover your teapot or cup with a lid. This is an important step!


6. Let the needles steep in the hot water for 10-15 minutes.


7. Strain and enjoy!


Optional: Add honey or sweetener if desired. You can make this recipe as-is, or add in other herbs to compliment the Pine needle flavor and boost the intentions of your tea. For example, if you’re making an immunity tea, you could add Elderberries, Rosehips, Orange Peel, or Cinnamon. For a respiratory tonic tea, Rosemary, Garden Sage, Thyme, or Peppermint would pair well with Pine needles. Get creative and explore different ingredients that call to you! But do try drinking Pine tip tea by itself at least once to fully immerse yourself in the wisdom, tastes, aromas, and sensations of this plant.

People who are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, or have health conditions should not consume Pine needle tea. Always consult a healthcare professional before consuming herbs.

Pine needles are incredibly versatile. Pine needle tea is just one of the many ways you can utilize the benefits of this aromatic plant. You can also incorporate Pine needles into other aromatic and herbal preparations like herbal steams, hydrosol, incense, herbal baths, apple cider vinegar extracts, tinctures, glycerites, cordials, oil infusions, and salves. Pine essential oil makes a great addition to natural perfumes or incense and can be added to an essential oil diffuser. The list could go on! 

This article offers a brief glimpse into the rich history, folklore, and vast uses of Pine. It is a snapshot of our Aromatic Medicine Garden library, where you can explore in-depth information on this and other aromatic plants. Our library is packed with resources, including step-by-step recipes for herbal and aromatic preparations, botany insights, history, science, cultivation tips, and more. 

Are you ready to dive into our educational collection of Plant Talk videos, plant monographs, and foundational knowledge videos designed to elevate your understanding and appreciation of aromatics? You can learn more about this membership and join the waitlist by clicking here.

1. Durzan, D.J. Arginine, scurvy and Cartier's "tree of life". J Ethnobiol Ethnomed. 2009 Feb 2;5:5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2647905/

Article Written By Melissa Szaro

© 2024 The Northwest School of Aromatic Medicine. All rights reserved.

*The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA, and are for educational purposes only. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your physician before you use this information for health purposes.