How to Use Pine Needles for Colds and Coughs
Pine needles contain volatile oils that help loosen congestion. As an extra bonus, they're also a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for the immune system. Here's what you need to do to use fresh pine needles to help your immune system and relieve any congestion you might have.
Things You'll Need
- A pine tree that is set back at least 50 feet from the road
- Field guide
- A pair of scissors
- Garden gloves
- A basket or paper bag
- Boiling water
- A mug
- Honey, to sweeten
Instructions
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Your first step is to take some time to find a pine tree that is set back from the road at least 50 feet. The reason for this is that harmful chemicals from cars and trucks can affect the medicinal quality of the tree. Any variety of pine tree will work. If you need help identifying the trees, consult an expert or look in a field guide.
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Once you find the tree, you can pick the needles that you need. Only take what you need. Snip them with your hands or a pair of scissors and place them into the basket or bag. For one cup of tea, you'll need around ten needles.
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You don't need to wait for them to dry in order to use them. Bring 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Break apart the pine needles with your fingers. Turn off the burner and add the pine needles. Let steep around 5 to 10 minutes.
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When at least 5 minutes has passed, stir in honey to sweeten. Honey has the added benefit of helping with sore throats and is also a mild antibiotic. Pour into a mug and enjoy. It doesn't matter if some of the pine needles get into the mug. But you can strain it out if you want.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure you positively identify the trees correctly by using a field guide.
Be careful not to pick too many needles from one tree. Aim for 5 percent and then move on to another tree.
Make sure you see a doctor, especially if your congestion or cough seems to be lingering. You could have an infection and need antibiotics.
