White Pine Tea

A cup of forest magic to ground your spirit and nourish your soul.

At a talk I gave several days ago, someone in the audience asked me about my favorite herbal tea. Without hesitation, I shared the story of white pine tea. As I described its fresh, citrusy flavor and its grounding, and delightful qualities, I could see the intrigue light up their face. They were captivated by the idea of bringing the essence of the forest into a simple cup of tea, and it reminded me of how deeply this humble brew can resonate with people.

White pine tea carries the whispers of ancient wisdom, a gift from the forests that Native Americans first embraced for its healing power. To them, the white pine was more than a tree—it was a sacred ally, offering its needles to create a brew rich in nourishment and vitality. Used to ease respiratory ailments, boost the immune system, and ward off the winter’s chill, this tea became a symbol of nature’s quiet generosity. Its vibrant vitamin C content even served as a remedy for scurvy, reminding us that the forest holds answers to our deepest needs.

When European settlers arrived, they learned the art of white pine tea from the Indigenous peoples, adopting it as a lifeline during harsh winters. What began as a survival tool grew into a tradition, the fresh citrusy scent of the needles steeping into a soothing warmth. Each cup carries this legacy—a bridge between cultures, seasons, and the timeless wisdom of the earth.

There’s something profoundly grounding about brewing a pot of white pine tea. For me, it feels like bringing the forest indoors—a way to capture the essence of Shinrin Yoku, or Forest Bathing, when stepping outside into nature isn’t possible.