How to Collect Pine Tree Pollen
Scientists sometimes collect pollen from plants, such as pine trees, to verify identification. Some herbalists claim that pine tree pollen contains a testosteronelike substance and can be used to boost one's libido or for other medicinal purposes. Pine pollen also contains several vitamins. The key to collecting pine pollen is finding pine trees when they are in bloom.
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Things You'll Need
- Field guide to trees
- Pine trees
- Plastic or paper bags
- Disposable gloves
- Ladder
- Baking sheet
- Oven and/or dehydrator
- Airtight container
Instructions
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Identify pine trees in your region. Pines are conifers that keep their green needles all year. Many pine trees are tall and somewhat triangular shaped, although some are low and spreading. Different species of pine trees are found all around the world, and a tree field guide can help you identify pine trees in your region.
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Find a pine tree in bloom. Pine tree flowers (also called catkins) don't look like what we normally think of as flowers, like marigolds or daisies, but instead they look somewhat like a caterpillar. The male flowers, which produce the pollen, are usually long and thin, while the female flowers, which become pine cones, are short and fat. Male pine tree catkins are often yellow or pale tan, and, depending on the species of pine, they may be on the tips of the branches or at the joints. Pines normally produce pollen in the spring or summer.
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Insert the pine catkin into a plastic or paper bag and gently shake. Pine catkins are likely to be sticky, and you may want to wear disposable gloves. Use a ladder to reach the flowers on the uppermost branches.
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Dry the pine pollen by laying it out on a cookie sheet in the hot sun. You can also dry it in a very low oven or in a food dehydrator.
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Store pine tree pollen in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
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Tips & Warnings
The products from pine trees, including pollen, are generally safe to consume, although some species of pine trees may produce pollen or sap a with strong "turpentine" odor and bitter flavor. Do not consume pine pollen if you have pine or pollen allergies or a severe reaction to bee stings.
