
General Information
OTHER NAMES: There are hundreds of fir trees most of which have medicinal properties: Fir, Norway pine, Norway spruce, Sitka spruce, blue spruce, Douglas fir, Balsam Fir, maritime pine, and white pine to name just a few.
HISTORY: First written account of pine bark about 500 years ago - very likely used much earlier than that - particularly among Native Americans
PROPERTIES: Powerful antioxidant, Antimicrobial, astringent, antiseptic,
expectorant, Flavenols, phenols, anti-inflammatory
Considered Uses
Respiratory: Colds, cough, runny nose, sore throat, decongestant,
allergies, asthma, flus, Tb (white pine)
Ears: Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Eyes: Retinopathy
Cardiovascular: Chronic venous insufficiency, high blood pressure, varicose veins/spider veins
Gastrointestinal: Laxative, antihelminthic (intestinal worms)
Genitourinary: Erectile dysfunction, UTIs, endometriosis, menopausal symptoms, male fertility, kidney, and bladder problems. May improve ED (erectile dysfunction)
Musculoskeletal: Topical anesthetic, rheumatism, Scurvy, coolant, arthritis
Neurologic: Boosts brain function, and may help memory
Skin: Healing (gum/resin), emollient, burns, boils, sores
Mental Health: Stimulant, ADHD, boosts brain function
Glucose: Helps to decrease blood sugar
Immunity: May help boost immunity (white pine)
Cancer: Possibly helpful
Infectious Disease: Gonorrhea
Other: Energy, athletic endurance, a good source of vitamin C
* * *
SIDE EFFECTS: Headaches, dizziness, stomach problems, mouth sores, halitosis (bad breath), irritation of skin and mucus membranes, increased bronchospasm
CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Autoimmune problems, bleeding disorders, diabetes, liver problems/hepatitis. Contraindicated in those on immunosuppressants (including corticosteroids); caution in those on antidiabetic medication and blood thinners
FORMS: Extract, capsules, powder, tea, ointments, gels, inhalant. Pine needle oil is used for respiratory issues as well as muscle aches and pains (topical)
RECOMMENDED BRANDS
No current recommended brands
DOSAGES: As directed
Reported doses – May NOT be supported by evidence as reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on label.
50 mg, taken 2-3 times daily, for up to one year
50 milligrams to 450 milligrams per day
Note: Mentioned uses on German Commission E
*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.