Pine Needles: First Nations Wisdom for Fall Immunity

As the crisp air of fall settles in and the first signs of cold and flu season appear, many of us turn to nature’s pharmacy for support. Among the most time-honoured remedies in Canada’s boreal forests are pine needles—a traditional medicine deeply rooted in the healing practices of First Nations communities used to ward off upper respiratory conditions. 

Tradition and Resilience: Pine in Indigenous Medicine

For generations, First Nations peoples across what is now Canada have relied on the evergreen pine for its powerful medicinal properties. Pine needles, with their vibrant green color and invigorating aroma, have been used in teas, steams, and poultices to treat coughs, congestion, and seasonal illnesses. The Cree, Ojibwe, and Mi’kmaq are just a few of the Nations who have passed down this knowledge through oral tradition and practice.

• Cree: Pine needle tea was a staple for easing chest colds and coughs, often brewed during the long winter months when illness was more common.
• Ojibwe: Fresh pine needles were steeped to create a warming infusion believed to “clear the lungs” and support overall vitality.
• Mi’kmaq: Pine was used both as a preventative and a remedy, with elders recommending pine tea at the first sign of a sore throat or sniffle.

Pine’s role in First Nations medicine is not just about physical healing—it’s also about resilience, connection to the land, and the wisdom of living in harmony with nature’s cycles. As described in your blog “Evergreens, Fire, and the Human Will”, the evergreen’s year-round vitality is a powerful symbol of hope and endurance, especially during the darker months.

The Science Behind the Tradition: Pine Needle Chemistry

Modern research is catching up to traditional wisdom, revealing that pine needles are indeed packed with compounds that can help the body fight off colds and flus:

• Vitamin C: Pine needles are a rich source of vitamin C—an essential nutrient for immune function and a classic remedy for scurvy among early European settlers, who learned of its benefits from Indigenous teachers.
• Antioxidants: Pine needles contain flavonoids and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress—key factors in the body’s response to infection.
• Essential Oils: Compounds like alpha-pinene and limonene found in pine needles have antimicrobial and expectorant properties, helping to clear mucus and inhibit the growth of pathogens.
• Shikimic Acid: Present in some pine species, this compound is a precursor for antiviral medications like Tamiflu, underscoring pine’s relevance in modern medicine.

Studies have shown that pine needle extracts can inhibit certain viruses and bacteria, and their high vitamin C content supports immune defense (source). The aromatic oils released from a hot cup of pine needle tea or a steam inhalation can help open the airways and soothe irritated throats—benefits long recognized in First Nations healing.

Bringing Pine Wisdom Into Your Fall Routine

With cold and flu season upon us, now is the perfect time to embrace this tradition. Whether you sip pine needle tea, add a few needles to your bath, or simply pause to breathe in the fresh scent of a pine forest, you’re tapping into a legacy of resilience and self-care.

As highlighted in your blog “Spruce Tips, Pine Needles, and Vitamin C”, these evergreens are not just beautiful—they’re a living medicine chest, offering support when we need it most.

Honouring Tradition, Supporting Wellness

At Canadian Pine Pollen Company, we honour the wisdom of First Nations healers and the science that validates their practices. Our sustainably wild-harvested pine products are crafted with care and respect for both people and planet—helping you stay well, naturally, as the seasons change.