Season for young pine cones, especially the species Pinus sylvestris (Pine Pine) begins in the second half of May. In the spring, pines develop new female cones (so -called seed cones). They are then in the early stages of growth – green, soft, juicy and full of resin. In southern Poland (e.g. Małopolska, Silesia) or in regions with a milder climate, spring comes earlier. Here, cones can be ready for harvest Already at the beginning of May.
In the north (e.g. Pomerania) or in the mountains (Tatra Mountains, Bieszczady) spring starts later. Lower temperatures delay the development of cones. The collection can be stretched here until the beginning of June (around 1-10 June). The best place for harvesting is forests away from factories and urban pollutants. The pine resin is adhesive and difficult to wash – it contains terpenes that stick to the skin and can cause irritation. Disposable gloves, e.g. latex, are a simple way to avoid clutter and maintain hygiene. Rinsing cones in running water or with the addition of vinegar removes dust, insects, cobwebs and pollen that can be embedded on them.
It is worth remembering that Young female cones after a few weeks (usually in June or July) begin to lignify, i.e. wood. Then they become hard and less useful for culinary or healing applications. Wooden is a natural process in which cones are preparing for a reproductive role – seed protection. The perfect time for harvesting is the phase, when the cones are 2-5 cm long, they are light green and can easily cut with a knife.
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Young pine cones contain flavonoidswhich protect cells against oxidative stress. We will also find in them also potassium and magnesiumsupporting electrolyte balance and digestion and vitamins E, P and K. Essential oils, In this Pinen and Limonen, they give them a characteristic coniferous aroma, and at the same time they work expectoration and diastolicfacilitating breathing with coughing or colds. Vitamin C levels in cones are lower than in citrus. Here, pine needles, which can contain up to 200 mg/100 g.
Essential oils contained in pine cones can support circulationimproving blood flow, Although science is still studying this effect and the evidence is limited to preliminary observations. However, cones can be a natural ally during periods of weakening immunity.
Unfortunately, not everyone should reach for them: People with allergies for pollen or essential oils may feel irritationand even rare cases even skin or respiratory reactions. Therefore, before use, especially in larger quantities, it is worth consulting a doctor – especially for chronic or pregnancy.
The tradition of using cones reaches hundreds of years. In folk medicine there was a remedy for colds, and in some regions, such as Scandinavia, even with a sweet delicacy. Today, these ideas are evolving, offering something for everyone: from classic syrups to more sophisticated jams or tinctures.
Pine syrup This is natural support for coughing and colds. Preparation is simple: cut the cones into thin slices, cover with sugar in a 1: 1 ratio and leave in a jar for several weeks (usually 2-3, at room temperature), until the sugar dissolves in juice released by cones. After straining through gauze, put the syrup in the fridge. Preventively, a teaspoon a day, in illness – up to 4 teaspoons for adults, although people with diabetes, children or pregnant women should consult a doctor due to the high sugar content and the potential effect of essential oils.
Pine jam It requires more effort: soak the cones (e.g. overnight to soften), cut into small pieces and cook with sugar and lemon juice – for example a kilo of cones at 0.8 kg of sugar – until the mass thickens, which usually lasts 1-2 hours. A dense, resinable delicacy is created, which goes well with cheese (e.g. Camembert), cakes, tea, and even adds a forest accent to meat marinades. You can also make it with fruit.
Jelly With pectin (e.g. a kilo of cones, 0.5 kg of sugar and a spoon of pectin) is a more delicate option – after cooking and straining, it freezes into a subtle addition to desserts, which will surprise guests with an unusual taste.
Sources: Terazpoczy.pl
