Pine buds from pines have been renowned since Antiquity for their medicinal properties, notably for treating breathing conditions. They are rich in antioxidants, flavonoids and terpenes. Essential oil of Scots pine is sold commercially, but did you know you can harvest pine buds yourself to benefit from their properties? We guide you step by step through harvesting, drying, storing and using pine buds.
Which species to use?
The Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) is most commonly used for bud harvest. It is recognised by its straight, slender, orange-brown trunk and its needles grouped in twos, fairly short and often twisted. However, other species such as the mountain pine (Pinus mugo) or the maritime pine (Pinus pinaster) can also be used.
What are their benefits?
Pine buds, particularly from Scots pine, are known for many beneficial properties. They are said to be expectorant, antiseptic and decongestant, helping relieve symptoms of colds, bronchitis and asthma. In addition, pine buds would have anti-inflammatory effects and could help strengthen the immune system. They may benefit bones and joints, aid bone regeneration after fracture, help fight osteoporosis and rheumatism, and increase physical vigour.
Bear in mind that any medicinal use should be accompanied by medical advice. Although natural, pine buds can have contraindications or interact with medications.
When and how to harvest pine buds?
Pine buds appear on the tree from late autumn, however they are harvested in late winter - early spring, usually in February - March, sometimes until April. Harvest when buds are still young and resinous, slightly sticky, beginning to swell but not yet opened. They are then particularly rich in active compounds! They should be brown-green to brown-pink in colour. Make sure to respect the tree during harvest, leaving enough buds for future growth. It is preferable to pick sparingly and spread the harvest across several trees rather than from a single tree.
We recommend wearing gloves to avoid getting resin all over your hands. There is no need to use a pruning shear, buds are picked simply by hand.
How to make a pine bud macerate?
Pine bud macerate is a preparation used in gemmotherapy, a branch of herbal medicine that exploits bud properties. It allows maximum extraction of active compounds. Here is how to prepare it.
Required equipment:
- Fresh pine buds
- An airtight glass jar
- 90% alcohol
- Vegetable glycerine
- Spring or mineral water
Macerate preparation:
- Once buds are harvested, fill your glass jar halfway with them.
- Prepare a mixture composed of one third alcohol, one third glycerine and one third purified water. For example, for 25 grams of fresh buds you can use 166 g alcohol, 166 g glycerine and 166 g water.
- Pour this mixture over the buds until they are completely covered. Close the jar airtight.
- Let macerate for 3 weeks in a room-temperature place away from light. Shake the jar daily to help extract active compounds.
- Then strain the macerate using a fine sieve or a coffee filter.
- Transfer it to a dark glass bottle with a dropper for easier use. Store in a cool, dark place.
Pine bud macerate is generally taken as a 20-day course, at 10 to 15 drops diluted in a glass of water, once a day, according to your therapist’s recommendations. It is preferable to take it between meals for better absorption. In all cases, consult a healthcare professional to determine appropriate dosage for your condition. Pregnant women, children and people on medication should be particularly cautious.
How to dry and store pine buds?
Besides macerate, pine buds can be consumed as an infusion. You can therefore dry them to store and use later.
For drying pine buds, once harvest is complete, spread them on a cloth or tray, ensuring they do not overlap. Place in a dry, ventilated place, protected from direct sunlight. Drying can take between one and two weeks. Buds are sufficiently dry when they are brittle to the touch.
To store pine buds, place them in an airtight glass jar, away from light and humidity. They can keep for several months, even up to a year.
How to use them?
To enjoy benefits of pine bud, the most common use is as a tisane or infusion. To prepare a pine bud tisane, use one teaspoon of dried buds per cup of boiling water. Let infuse for 10 minutes before straining.
Pine buds can also be used in syrup. Besides its pleasant aroma, this syrup helps soothe coughs and cold symptoms.
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