White Spruce (Picea glauca):
Key identification features:
Conifer trees that have single needles that can be rolled between the fingers. Branches are very rough and stubbly as the leaf (needle) stalks remain on the branch.
Medicinal usage:
Spruce is antimicrobial against bacteria and fungi. Spruce resin or pitch is an excellent antiseptic for wounds and was traditionally used a lozenge for sore throats and coughs. Spruce pitch and needles were traditionally taken internally to treat lung congestion. An ointment made from the resin can be applied to sore joints and muscles to relieve pain, or applied to the chest to help relieve lung congestion. The inner bark was traditionally used to treat coughs, colds and flus. Scientific research into the inner bark of Norway Spruce (Picea abies) has shown it has immunomodulatory properties, supporting the traditional usage in cold and flu treatment.
Edible use:
The young spruce tips in spring can be eaten fresh or cooked.
How to prepare:
The spruce resin can be harvested any time of the year, but is less sticky in the winter. The needles are frequently gathered when fresh in the spring, but can be used at any time of the year. The bark is also best gathered in the spring and can be used anytime of the year.
Caution:
Spruce is best used for acute conditions rather than long term. Avoid during pregnancy.
Spruce pitch balm:
Ingredients:
Organic sunflower oil
Spruce pitch/resin
Beeswax
Instructions:
Weigh total amount of spruce resin. Add 5 times the volume of sunflower oil relative to the weight of spruce resin. For example for 50g of spruce resin add 250mL of oil. Heat oil and resin in a double boiler or bain marie until the resin is melted. Remove any undissolved chunks. Add the beeswax as 12% weight relative to the volume of oil. For example for 250mL of oil add 30g of beeswax. When beeswax is melted pour the liquid oil mixture into jars. Allow jars to cool uncovered. Once cooled cover jars with lid.
Usage:
Apply directly to minor wounds and broken skin, bruises and sore muscles. Apply to the outer edge of deeper wounds. Do not apply to weeping eczema. Use an applicator to keep ointment sterile and prevent contamination.
Would you like to learn more about Spruce Medicine?
If you are in Calgary please join me at the Light Cellar on Sunday January 12 from 1pm to 3:30pm.
Tickets: https://lightcellar.ca/collections/in-person-classes-events/products/tree-medicine-discover-the-properties-benefits-how-to-make-your-own