Susan Weed Keeps You Fine With Pine

Discovering The Healing Legacy of Pine

Susun Weed is one of the first herbalists who truly got me into herbalism. A revered herbalist and prolific author, Weed is an old-school herbalist—the kind that is all too rare today. Her book Healing Wise is one of the seminal texts of contemporary Western herbalism.

In her article "Pine Keeps You Fine," Weed writes about the profound health benefits and many traditional uses of the pine tree—although she seems unaware of the healing power of Pine Pollen. In Pine Keeps You Fine, Weed explores the centuries-old uses of the pine tree as both a food and a medicine, highlighting the multifaceted role it has played throughout history in promoting and sustaining wellness.

From Needle Tea to Poultice: The Traditional Uses of the Pine Tree

According to Weed, pine trees have been cherished for generations for their nutritive and therapeutic properties. Weed highlights the benefits of pine needle tea, historically invaluable for its high levels of vitamin C. Pine needle tea was used to combat scurvy, and as the legend tells, it was actually the Indigenous peoples of North America who educated British sailors on the use of pine needle tea to stave off scurvy—not the use of limes.

Weed writes, "Pine needles are rich in vitamin C. Hundreds of years ago, many people died of lack of vitamin C, not directly, but indirectly, from opportunistic infections that thrived because their immune system lacked critical vitamins."

Additionally, Weed mentions the use of pine needles as a poultice, an effective treatment for alleviating pain and inflammation. This traditional knowledge underscores the pine tree's versatility and enduring relevance in herbalism.

Pine Needle Vinegar

In Pine Keeps You Fine, Weed shares a recipe for pine needle vinegar. She describes its flavor as similar to, yet superior to, balsamic vinegar. I haven’t tried it yet—but it is on the to-do list of home apothecary projects.

Beyond its taste, Weed notes that pine needle vinegar is a potent source of vitamin C, a surprising revelation given pine’s less common association with this essential nutrient. Weed writes, "I preserve all the vitamins found in fresh pine needles by soaking them in apple cider vinegar for six weeks... I call this tasty vinegar 'home-made balsamic vinegar,' and you will be surprised at how much it tastes like the store-bought stuff—'Only better,' say many, with a smile."

The Spiritual Significance of the Pine Tree

The pine tree holds deep spiritual significance across numerous cultures worldwide. Weed writes about the reverence for the pine tree in various traditions, where it symbolizes longevity, wisdom, and resilience. This spiritual dimension enhances our appreciation of the pine tree, connecting us to traditional practices and beliefs.

Pine Sap as a Versatile Healer

Pine sap, or pine pitch, has strong antibacterial properties. Historically, it has been used in cough syrups, tinctures, and salves to support respiratory health, wound healing, and fighting skin infections. Because pine sap is hydrophobic (it repels water), it requires high-proof alcohol for proper tincturing.

Pine sap honey, made by combining pine sap with honey, offers another unique way to prepare and use it. As Weed explains, "Pine sap, like many resins, is strongly antibacterial. Pine sap medicines slightly irritate the lungs, increase the effectiveness of coughs, kill bacterial infections, halt coughing, and improve breathing." 

Capturing the Essence of the Pine Tree with Pine Pollen

Pine Pollen has been used in Classical and Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries—although its use is largely unheard of in the West. Stephen Buhner, an herbalist, poet, and environmental activist, writes that Pine Pollen is exceptionally high in phytotestosterone—a plant analog to the male sex hormone testosterone.

Buhner notes that consuming the pollen itself, or taking a tincture in dropperful doses, may gradually enhance libido in those responsive to its effects. Moreover, Buhner writes that Pine Pollen is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress.

Embracing the Pine Tree for Modern Wellness

Susun Weed’s writing on the many uses of the pine tree reaffirms my belief in its invaluable role in both historical and contemporary herbalism—and its potential for aiding in my own health journey.

From its needles, high in vitamin C, to its spiritual significance, the pine tree provides benefits that foster healing of the body, mind, and spirit.

Parting Thoughts

If you are unfamiliar with Susun Weed's work—or if you are already familiar and would like to read Pine Keeps You Fine—I highly encourage you to visit her website and explore the timeless wisdom she shares.

Someday, I hope to leave even a shadow of the legacy through RAW Forest Foods that Susun Weed has.