What is pine pollen and why should I consume it?

Pine pollen is a fine yellow powder that is produced by the male cones of pine trees. The cones contain the sperm cells that are required for pine reproduction. The common representation of a pine cone is actually its female cone, as male cones are thinner, longer, and of a lighter color than female cones. Male cones also go by the name of catkins, and are much softer than female cones. Unlike female cones that grow anywhere on the branch, male cones are to be found mostly at the end of branches, where they are more exposed and their seeds can easily be dispersed by the wind. As its purpose is to be carried over to and pollinate a female cone, the tiny pollen grains can settle on almost any surface, including clean, vertical windows. Interestingly, although too small to be seen in detail by the naked eye, magnification of a pine pollen grain reveals that they are shaped like Mickey Mouse's head. Pine pollen is viewed by many nutritionists and natural health experts as one of the most potent nutrient-

dense wholefood sources in the world. Loaded with over 20 amino acids, including all of the essential ones, rich in vitamins A, D, E, vitamins of the B complex, abundant in a wide range of minerals, including copper, iron, calcium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, selenium, ormus and zinc, as well as a natural source of TESTOSTERONE! - pine pollen is a natural miracle unto itself. Pine pollen has so many health benefits that it is probably impossible to recount them all in this guide. It is part of a very special class of herbal tonics called adaptogens, which have the ability to identify and target very specific health and fitness problems that affect each individual. Moreover, it is completely nontoxic and safe to consume on a regular basis and for prolonged periods of time. Similar to ginseng in its scope, very few other plant products are known to possess such universal applicability. Adaptogens are able to rejuvenate the entire body, relieve stress, anxiety, speed up trauma recovery, fight depression, regulate metabolism, and help with disease management. Pine pollen is also a wonderful plant source of androgens, stimulating male endocrine activity and working as a natural aphrodisiac.

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Scientific claims
Scientists have also turned their gaze toward this natural remedy, and have so far been able to determine the following benefits of pine pollen: can increase the levels of a class of enzymes known as superoxide dismutase, which work as powerful antioxidants within all cells of the body. inhibits lipid peroxidation (the degenration of fats into free-radicals). increases glutathione transferases (proteins that works as catalysts in metabolic processes) and removes pollutants. helps reduce lipofuscin deposits, which cause the appearance of age spots on internal organs. can provide bio-available testosterone, as well as other natural steroids that promote the health of the reproductive system in both males and females, as well as encouraging muscle health promotes the production of collagen and elastin - the two main constituents of the skin that ensure its youthful appearance

fine, yellow layer on the ground and other nearby surfaces. To collect pine pollen, different individuals may use different methods.

What tools do I need to collect pine pollen?

The collection of pine pollen does not require the use of any fancy equipment. However, and especially if you are prone to developing allergies, you will need the following tools: plastic bag disposable gloves a thin scarf or dust mask, to wear around the mouth and nose a ladder, to reach the higher branches of the pine tree. baking sheets, to dry out the pollen an air-tight container, in which to store the dry pollen

Where do I find pine pollen and how do I collect it?

First and foremost, you should look for pine trees in your area. People who are not experienced with nature might have trouble spotting pine trees among other coniferous trees. While there are about 115 known species of trees in the pinus genus, most individuals will be able to identify pines by their long, clustered needles. Some species of pine trees are tall and triangular, while others are shorter and more spread out. They are widely distributed across the globe and can be found in most of the Northern hemisphere. They are found in Eurasia, ranging across the Iberian Peninsula and Scotland, Russia, Northern parts of Africa, to Southeast Asia, as well as spreading across to the

When do I harvest pine pollen?

Male pine cones begin releasing pollen during the spring, when the cycle of life begins once again. As the pollen drops from the cones, it usually forms a

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equator. In North America, different pine tree species can be found from Canada to Nicaragua. The most common varieties to be found in Canada are the Jack Pine and Red Pine. Jack Pine Red Pine

courage it to release its seed. The pollen should easily collect inside the bag. Repeat this process with multiple catkins until a decent amount of pollen is collected. At this point, the pollen can be consumed in its pure form, or dried out for later consumption. Note: Some individuals prefer to leave a bag or bucket under the catkins and wait for time to work its magic, however the amount of pollen you collect this way is a lot harder to control. Others who want to obtain very large amounts of pollen can simply crush the entire catkin inside the bag; however, the resulting powder will then have to be sifted, to separate the pollen from the crushed catkin bits. If you decide to dry the collected pollen, spread it into a fine layer on a baking sheet and let it dry out in the hot sun. While sun drying foods provides many health benefits, you can also use a dehydrator to dry out the pollen. After the pollen is dried, store it an air-tight container and place it in the refrigerator.

To harvest the pollen, look for the light-colored catkins on the tips of branches. You will be able to easily tell them apart from female cones, since female cones are a lot thicker and darker colored than their male counterparts. The fastest way to harvest pine pollen without damaging the catkins is to insert the catkin into a plastic bag, then pinch it slightly to check for pollen. Due to its natural resins, the catkin may be-

That's all it takes to collect pine pollen!

come sticky, especially when squeezed too much. If pollen is present, you can shake the cone very gently, to en-

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