It is sometimes difficult to recognize these large trees, as the species are numerous and varied. They do not have leaves but needles, and their fruits are cone-shaped, hence their names of conifers. On the health side, Scots pine is used in herbal medicine, in gemmotherapyand in aromatherapy. Its needles contain amino acids, including glutamine and proline, phenol acids, shikimic acid precursor of many molecules as well as gasoline.
The buds are rich in essence which is extracted to give the essential oil of Scots pine. This contains about 80% of monoterpenes, more particularly alpha- and beta-pinene, and bornyl acetate. The bark contains tannins, sources of proanthocya-nidols, an extract of which, pycnogenol, treats venous insufficiency and relieves the symptoms of osteoarthritis. The resin collected by tapping gives the essence of turpentine and rosin; it is harvested industrially from maritime pines (Pinus pinaster).
An infusion to clear and clean the bronchi
Try this antiseptic and expectorant infusion recipe.
Recipe
- Immerse 15 g of pine buds, 20 g of mallow flowers and 10 g of globular eucalyptus leaves in 1 liter of simmering water.
- Cover and steep for 10 minutes.
How to use it
Drink 3 large cups of infusion per day, for 10 days.
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An aromatic blend to treat lung infections
This aromatic mixture cleanses and unclogs the respiratory tract.
Recipe
- Pour 3 ml of apricot kernel vegetable oil in the palm of your hand
- Add 2 drops of Scots pine essential oil, 2 drops of radiated eucalyptus essential oil and 1 drop of aspic lavender essential oil.
- To mix together
How to use it
Massage the back into the lungs, 2 or 3 times a day, for 6 to 8 days.
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An aroma preparation to soothe rheumatic pain
This powerful preparation relieves joint or muscle pain.
Recipe
- Pour 3 ml oily arnica macerate in the palm of your hand
- Add 2 drops of Scots pine essential oil, 2 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil and 1 drop of ylang-ylang essential oil
- To mix together
How to use it
Massage the painful area, 2 to 4 times a day for 10 to 15 days.
An aroma recipe to relieve heavy legs
This aromatic blend is super effective when you are suffering fromvenous insufficiency.
Recipe
- Pour 3 ml of oily arnica macerate in the palm of your hand
- Add 2 drops of Scots pine essential oil, 2 drops of pistachio lentisk essential oil and 1 drop ofItalian helichrysum essential oil
- To mix together
How to use it
Apply this preparation on the legs, massaging from the bottom to the top, 2 times a day for 15 days.
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A super tonic against fatigue
The essential oil supports the body in case of tiredness or intense stress.
Recipe
- Pour about 3 ml of apricot kernel vegetable oil in the palm of your hand
- Add 2 drops of Scots pine essential oil
- To mix together
How to use it
Apply the preparation in the back, on the kidneys, in the morning, for 21 days.
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One more anti-osteoarthritis tip
The pine bud decreases the wear and tear of the cartilage. Try this recipe:
- Drink 10 to 15 drops diluted in a large glass of water, once a day, for 21 days.
- Take 100 mg per day of Pycnogenol at the same time.
- To be renewed every 3 months.
How to safely benefit from essential oils
- Always seek medical advice in case of pregnancy, breastfeeding, drug treatment and for children under 12 years.
- Before using an essential oil, put a drop in the crook of the elbow. If no redness appears after 30 to 45 minutes, it is okay.
- Avoid any contact between an essential oil and the eyes
- For all preparations, follow the protocols described.
Thanks to our expert Pascale Gélis-Imbert, doctor of pharmacy
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