Making pine needle soda is a fun wintertime project. Rich in probiotics, this homemade wild-fermented drink is a delicious alternative to sugary store-bought beverages. Whipping up some pine soda is also a great activity to do with little ones. Crafting this bubbly beverage is a simple way to introduce children to the wonders of foraging and fermentation. And kids will love drinking something they helped make! This post contains affiliate links. As…
Evergreens have been an important part of winter celebrations since ancient times. From wreaths, garlands, and the classic Christmas tree, decorating with pine, fir, and spruce has long been a quintessential part of festive traditions. Evergreens are also a lovely ingredient in the holiday kitchen. Pine, spruce, and fir are all edible and can be a delicious addition to beverages, baked goods, condiments, and more! I work with pine the…
This is an excerpt from the article “An Herbalist’s Tips on Spring Tips” by Leah Jorgensen Jean featured in the Spring Vol 3 | Issue 12 | 2025 edition of Botanical Anthology. To learn more about foraging and using fir, douglas fir, and spruce tips, check out the entire article in the magazine! Our herbal magazine, featuring remedies, recipes and projects with plants for the spring season, can be purchased…
It is possible to enjoy festive body care products without any artificial fragrances and other nefarious ingredients. This Spiced Pine Hair Rinse gets its scent and beneficial properties from pine needles and a blend of festive herbs, without any of the toxic additives found in conventional shampoos.
One of my favorite holiday rituals is the festive feast we have every year. Our family’s traditional Christmas dinner features pork ribs slathered in homemade pine barbecue sauce.
These pine infused snickerdoodles are a festive, foraged spin on the classic cookie. Pine needles impart herbal, citrusy notes that pair wonderfully with spicy, warming cinnamon.
Pine needles (Pinus spp.) have a number of health boosting properties, which are imparted into the vinegar. They are rich in vitamin C and are a source of other nutrients, such as potassium and magnesium, and antioxidants. They also have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and expectorant effects.
From time to time, I enjoy paging through an herbal body care book from the 1970’s called Jeanne Rose’s Herbal Body Book. It’s full of old fashioned recipes for natural products that aren’t commonly found in modern day beauty regimens, including something she calls a “cosmetic vinegar.” According to Rose, cosmetic vinegars can be used as a facial rinse, aftershave, or deodorant. “It is softening and will relieve itchy skin and restore…