Health Benefits of Pine Needle Tea
There are very few long-term or clinical researches on the health benefits of pine needle tea. But there is a long tradition of its usage in Native American and Asian cultures. We can find its mention in memoirs, encyclopedias, and folklore. Here are some of its top health benefits:
Rich in Vitamin C:
Although there is no research to support it, pine needle tea is believed to contain 4-5 times more vitamin C than orange juice. It was the traditional remedy for scurvy, which is caused by vitamin C deficiency. The Encyclopedia of Folk Medicine describes how Native Americans used pine needle tea to treat scurvy among the colonists. A Korean study found that the antioxidant activity of pine needle tea may have been indeed similar to that of vitamin C.
Vision health:
Pine needle tea is also believed to contain vitamin A. Together with vitamin C, it may help improve our vision. Vitamin C is good for aging eyes, giving it antioxidant protection against normal pollutants. Vitamin A is essential for our cornea and in improving vision.
Respiratory Conditions:
Pine needle tea was often used by indigenous cultures for treating respiratory problems. The Encyclopedia of American Indian Contributions to the World records how the Native Americans used white pine for its expectorant and decongestant qualities.
Weight Loss:
Pine needle tea may demonstrate some of the same potentials as green and black tea. Research shows that it may help in weight loss. A Korean study on rats and overweight humans found that pine needle extract along with green and black tea slowed weight gain and reduced visceral fat mass.
Rich in Antioxidants:
Pine needle tea could be a very rich source of antioxidants which may be essential for fighting free radicals, chronic conditions, and preventing diseases. According to research published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology, a water extract from pine needles showed a high level of antioxidants and DNA-protective properties.
Heart Health:
Pine needle tea may be good for your heart. Research has shown that it may protect against LDL oxidation, a condition that can threaten your cardiovascular health. It might also have strong anti-inflammatory properties which further help in minimizing any damage on your heart due to pollutants or other factors.
Cognitive Function:
Early studies on the effect of this potent tea on neurodegenerative diseases have shown promising results. An animal study showed that it can be very effective against memory impairment or amnesia. The antioxidants in this tea may help repair neural connections and improve memory.
Side Effects
There are a wide variety of pine trees. Some of these are potentially toxic or harmful when used for food. If you are foraging for pine needles, it is advisable to do so with an expert. According to the USDA Agricultural Research Service, the needles of ponderosa pine may cause abortion when grazed by cattle. With very little research available, most of the side effects of pine-needle tea are also anecdotal. Some of these are: [12]
Irritation in the throat and mouth
Inflamed patches on the skin
Vomiting
Nausea
Dizziness
Headaches
Diarrhea
For pregnant women: The USDA cautioned against the ingestion of ponderosa pine needles. Given the toxicity of some pine species, it is best to avoid drinking this tea if you are pregnant.
Allergy: You should also be aware of any potential allergies to pine trees. Pine oil that is released when brewing the tea, may have inflammatory effects on the skin and stomach, resulting in stomach upset in some people. Given these possible side-effects, it is recommended that you only try about half a cup in the beginning.