Ways We Have Used Pine

At the beginning of the month, we put pine and fir needles in vinegar to soak as preparation for making our own cleaning solution. This reminded me one of our mottos: "Harvest what you have." We have a lot of pine and fir trees around (I love evergreens!) and we have used them for several projects. Here are some of the uses we have personally tried for pine tree products:

1) Pine needle infused vinegar for cleaning- Pine needles have anti-bacterial properties, and when combined with white vinegar can be used to create a cleaning solution for many household uses. 

To make the vinegar cleaning infusion, simply cut up pine needles, place in a jar, cover with white vinegar, and infuse in a dark place for at least two weeks. To use as a cleaning solution: Use a ratio of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water. Add to a spray bottle and use for general cleaning. For greasy areas, you can use a stronger solution of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water. 

2) White pine tincture. - White pine needle tincture is anti-viral and supports respiratory function. The Lost Herbs has directions on how to make your own pine tincture.

3) Pine needle tea. - Pine needle tea is reportedly high in vitamin C and vitamin A. Web MD (1) has an article about the health benefits of pine needle tea. The Chestnut School of Herbs (2) has another article highlighting the medicinal benefits of pine tea. Be sure to get pine needles and avoid yew needles, which are highly toxic!

4) Potpourri. - A potpourri that includes pine makes the house smell wonderful. Simply add some pine branches to water and simmer on the stove. You can add fir needles, citrus peels, or cinnamon sticks to vary the fragrance. Caution: Be sure to keep an eye on your potpourri pot. You do not want to start a fire by letting all the water evaporate out!

5) Christmas wreaths. - There is nothing like evergreen wreaths and boughs for decorating at Christmas time. They smell wonderful and look beautiful for several weeks.

6) Pine cone fire starters. - Pine cones make great fire starters. Be sure to dry them out before using them for this purpose. You can use them dry or dip them in wax. Instructables has instructions to make an essential oil infused pinecone starter with wax and candle wicks. Joybilee Farm has another option that uses cupcake liners and a variety of both natural and recycled materials.

7) Pine pollen. - Pine pollen is reportedly high in vitamins, minerals, and more. The benefits range from anti-inflammatory, to hormonal balance and immune support, to detox and allergy support (3). Pine pollen can be added to flour or sprinkled on soups, casseroles, and salads. Forager Chef has an informational article detailing how to collect pine pollen and ways to use it.

8) Campfire wood. - While most pines create too much ash to be considered prime material for your home fireplace or woodstove, they can work well for a campfire.

9) Mulch - Pine needles can work well as mulch for some plants. They are acidic, however, so don't use them to mulch those plants that need less acidic (more alkaline) soil! We have mulched blueberries, strawberries, and roses with pine needles and have had good success.

Warning: Do not confuse pine with yew trees or any other look-alikes. Yew is highly toxic. Be sure to properly identify any plant before use!

Safety & Contraindications: Do not use pine needles in pregnancy and avoid internal use of the bark. Pine needles and pine bark can cause kidney irritation with long-term use. Do not use pine resin internally.


(1) https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-to-know-pine-needle-tea

(2) https://chestnutherbs.com/the-medicine-of-pine/

(3) https://www.rupahealth.com/post/6-benefits-of-pine-pollen

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