The Origin of Forest Prana Pine Pollen and Nettle Root Elixir Tincture
In 2011, we introduced the first iteration of what would become the Forest Prana Pine Pollen and Nettle Root Elixir Tincture. Then—as now—our intention was to unite the potent properties of two foundational phytotherapeutics, RAW Pine Pollen™ and Stinging Nettle Root, into a single, purpose-driven formula designed to support Pine Pollen’s phytoandrogenic qualities while promoting prostate health.*
The pairing was intuitive—and the first of its kind. Pine Pollen, rich in naturally occurring phytoandrogens (analogous to androgenic hormones), was central to RAW Forest Foods. Stinging Nettle Root offered a natural allyship to Pine Pollen, traditionally used to support the balance of androgenic and estrogenic hormones and to promote prostate health.*
At the time, our pure Pine Pollen Tincture had already become a customer favorite. Yet there was an opportunity to refine its use for daily, ongoing support. Pure Pine Pollen tinctures—such as our Forest Manna Royal Pine Pollen Tincture and Forest Aurum Pine Pollen Nectar Tincture—are best realized through intermittent use. To support a more consistent, daily approach, we formulated Pine Pollen with Stinging Nettle Root—bringing balance to the formula and enhancing its suitability for long-term use.
This melding of Stinging Nettle Root with Pine Pollen tempers potential concerns around the daily use of pure Pine Pollen tinctures—such as elevated DHT and E2 levels—while offering integrative, whole-system support.*
Behind the Forest Prana Name
Invoking the ancestral traditions this formula is born of, the Forest Prana name speaks to the profound connection between tradition, nature, and enduring vitality—the synergy between the natural world and the vital life force within. Within each and every one of us. This is the infinite power within.
The word Forest is much more than a reference to RAW Forest Foods. It symbolizes authenticity, growth, patience, and the timeless wisdom embodied in wild environments—like the untouched mountain forests where our Pine Pollen is sustainably sourced. It reflects a reverence for natural ecosystems and the slow, intentional processes that define both forest life and our formulations.
We borrow the word Prana (प्राण) from Sanskrit, where it is translated as life force or vital energy. Prana is the breath of life that animates all living beings—it is our innate vitality, the spark within, and the universal energy that flows through everything. Prana is Qì: the invisible yet essential current of life.
Through the Jūn-Chén-Zuǒ-Shǐ framework, we craft alchemical, synergistic elixirs—elixirs that honor tradition while offering intentional, long-term support. Forest Prana Pine Pollen Elixir is a tincture that nourishes across time, rooted in forest wisdom, and formulated to support the unfolding of strength, internal alignment, and enduring vitality.*
In 2017, as our understanding of the formula evolved, we incorporated Aged Citrus Peel (Chén Pí) and Cape Jasmine Fruit (Zhī Zǐ) into the original pairing of Pine Pollen and Stinging Nettle Root. While these additions make up only 5% of the total formula, their inclusion transforms the elixir into a true Jūn-Chén-Zuǒ-Shǐ preparation—potentiating and synergizing the primary ingredients, invigorating and regulating Qì flow, and energetically harmonizing the formula.*
Tinctures emphasize the Yang qualities of their ingredients—delivering fast-acting, activating effects and making them an excellent choice for those seeking immediate vitality and support.* This dynamic expression contrasts with the deeper, long-term nourishment provided by raw powders and extract powders, highlighting the adaptability and depth of our Mountain Harvest Pine Pollen™ Collection.*
In addition to this tincture, the Forest Prana Pine Pollen and Nettle Root Elixir formula is also available in capsule form and as an extract powder—supporting your practice in the way that best fits your individual needs, wherever you are on your path.*
As always, we invite you to discover the infinite power within. Welcome to the trail family.