Most of us live in or near areas that contain pine trees, and this provides us with an opportunity to take advantage their needles in some surprising ways. From cleaners to medicines, mulch or food, pine needles represent one of the best resources that nature provides, and it doesn’t take a lot to put them to work for you. Here are a few examples of how pine needles can benefit you now as well as during a prolonged crisis.
Cleaner
You can easily make a potent and fragrant cleaner that is a safe and effective alternative to Pine Sol or similar products. All you need to do is combine and mix together a tablespoon of castile soap, 15 drops of pine essential oil and sprig of rosemary with 4 cups of water. Clean as you normally would with a commercial product and rinse with water when finished.
Pine Tea
Pine needles are loaded with vitamin C, and a handful can contain up to five times the amount that we get from lemons or oranges. They also contain high levels of vitamin A as well as trace amounts of other nutrients that can help to fight illness and infection, combat fatigue and depression and even purify the blood. All you need to do is gather a handful of the freshest, greenest needles you can find, cut off their ends, and give them a good rinse before placing them in some cheesecloth to make an improvised tea bag. Steep the needles in hot water for 5 minutes before drinking. If you don’t have any cheesecloth, you can place the needles directly into the water and remove them before drinking as well.
Cough Syrup
Pine needles have been used as a natural expectorant and cough suppressant for centuries. You can enjoy the same benefits by placing a handful of needles attached to small twigs, along with a pine cone or two, into a pot of fresh water. Bring the water up to a simmer and let the pine steep until the liquid reduces by about 50 percent. Strain the liquid into a bowl and add some bee honey. The ideal ratio is 2 parts of liquid to 1 part honey, but you can experiment with different concentrations depending on your preferences. Let the syrup cool and take a tablespoon or two every few hours, or as needed, until you start to feel better.
Pine Salve
Pine needles contain high concentrations of nutrients that are ideal for helping wounds to heal while fighting off infections at the same time, and making a salve is the most-effective way to enjoy these benefits. The first step is to chop up a handful of fresh needles, place them in a mason jar, and cover them with some olive oil. Cover and let soak for 4-6 weeks. Next, combine 1 cup of the pine oil infusion with ¼ cup of beeswax and a few drops of essential oils of your choice into a double boiler. Warm over low heat until the wax melts before stirring until the ingredients are evenly-mixed. Store the finished product in tins or small glass jars until ready to use, and apply the salve as you would any other type of ointment.
Aside from these uses, pine needles also make a great mulch, and they can improve the efficiency of compost piles. You can also use the needles for padding or insulation, and they also make great sewing needles for patches or for making minor repairs to torn fabric in the field as well.
These are just a few examples of the limitless benefits that pine needles can provide, and you’re only limited by your creativity and ability to improvise. Try these for yourself, and keep your eyes open for other tips that can help you to get the most out of this abundant natural resource.
