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Coniferous trees present in forests, gardens and houses during the Christmas tree season, in addition to their nice appearance and smell, contain many substances beneficial to health. Both needles, young shoots and resin are medicinal substances that have been used for years. One of the most popular trees in Poland is pine, which contains valuable essential oils, vitamin C and flavonoids.
The essential oils present in the composition of pine have an expectorant effect, removing toxins, warming, stimulating immunity, disinfecting and improving blood circulation in the body. In addition, we will find in it:
- Tannins that have a disinfecting, anti-inflammatory and antidiarrheal effect,
- Flavonoids – antioxidants that slow down the aging process of the body and prevent the spread of free radicals, thus preventing the formation of dangerous diseases such as cancer,
- Carbohydrates,
- Bitterness – stimulate appetite and secretion of gastric juices,
- Vitamin C – a golden vitamin to strengthen immunity and help fight infections and colds,
- Phenolic acids – also strengthen immunity, as well as disinfect and prevent atherosclerosis.
The main medicinal raw materials of pine that can be used for health purposes are buds (preferably harvested in winter and early spring), young shoots, needles, bark (as a result of dry distillation, it gains anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, skin softening, antibacterial properties) and resin, with from which turpentine (congestant) is obtained. The resin is used to make ointments and patches.
Pine ointment – properties and method of preparation
It is a cure for many ailments. It will cure rheumatic pains, accelerate the healing of small wounds, have a disinfecting effect, reduce itching after bites, open the airways and facilitate breathing in case of infections.
To prepare such an ointment, you will need about 40 pine buds, 50 ml of pine resin (collected from a tree 70 cm above the ground), 20 young shoots with buds, about 200 ml of coconut oil. All elements should be placed in the pan, heating them for a few minutes, and when the resin melts, the needles will start to change their color. When the coconut oil turns golden, mix it all together and let it sit for about half an hour. After this time, you can strain the ready ointment into a container.
Amber spirit – for rubbing against various ailments
Such a home remedy is used externally. It has a soothing effect on sore muscles and joints, muscle spasms and even minor neuralgia. Applying alcohol to the temples can help relieve headaches.
To obtain such a home remedy, it is enough to put a spoonful of washed, small pieces of natural amber in a small jar and pour half a glass of spirit over it. Amber cannot be smelted beforehand. Leave the closed jar at room temperature for ten days, shaking it occasionally.