The wild pine, also known as pine-of-cone and pine-of-riga, is a tree found, more commonly, in the regions of colder climate being native of Europe. This tree has the scientific name of Pinus sylvestris and may have other types such as Pinus pinaster and Pinus strobus.
The pollen of this plant, as well as the essential oil, extracted from the bark, are being increasingly studied for use in the treatment of respiratory problems, rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, fungal and bacterial infections, muscle and nerve pain and also can help fight aging.
Essential oil and wild pine pollen-based products can be found in health food stores and in some pharmacies, however, before using these products it is necessary to consult a herbalist and follow the guidelines of a general practitioner.
What is it for
The wild pine is a tree from which the essential oil and pollen can be extracted, which generally serve to help treat problems of the respiratory system, such as cold, hoarseness, sinusitis and cough with phlegm, as it has an expectorant and bronchodilator effect..
Some studies have been developed to show the relevance of the use of wild pine in the relief of muscular and rheumatological pain, caused by rheumatoid arthritis, and in the treatment of joint inflammation and infections caused by fungi and bacteria. It has also been proven that wild pine pollen can play an important role against skin aging.
Wild pine properties
Wild pine pollen contains vitamin D particles, which are important for bone development, preventing diseases such as diabetes, helping to maintain body balance and strengthening the immune system. See more other functions of vitamin D.
Another substance found in pollen extract and essential oil of wild pine is the hormone testosterone, known to increase muscle mass, however, the amount of this hormone in this plant is very low and does not cause visible effects on the body.
In addition, the essential oil of this plant has antifungal and antibiotic properties, as studies prove that the components found in this plant inhibit the growth and development of bacteria, yeasts and fungi.
How to use Scots pine
Wild pine must be used in the forms of essential oil, extracted from the branches of the tree, and products made from pollen, such as ointments, creams, emulsions, bath oils and gel alcohol. The most practical and easy ways to use essential oil are:
- For inhalation: place 2 drops of wild pine essential oil in 1 book of boiling water and inhale the vapors for 10 minutes; For the bath: apply 5g of essential oil in the bathtub with water between 35-38 ° C and stay in the bathtub for 10 to 20 minutes.
This essential oil is sold in health food stores or pharmacies.
Possible side effects
The side effects of essential oil are not yet well defined, but the products that contain wild pine pollen have substances that can cause an allergic reaction such as skin irritation, sneezing and itching. Also, because of the risk of causing eye irritation, essential oil should not be applied around the eyes.
When not to use
Essential oil and products extracted from wild pine pollen should not be used by people who have bronchial asthma, due to the risk of developing an allergic crisis with cough and shortness of breath.
It is also not recommended to apply wild pine products on the face of babies and children up to 2 years of age, as it can lead to the appearance of spasms, breathing problems or skin burns.
