11/16/2025
Pine & Spruce also contain vitamin C, which helps support the immune system - Eastern white pine, in particular. Spruce tips are also rich in vitamins C, A and K.
You can even make a natural "soda" from pine needles. Eastern white pine is especially good for this.
Recipe:
1c fresh pine needles
1.5 c filtered or distilled H2O
2-4 TBSP white sugar (other kinds work, but may decrease carbonation)
1. Gently rinse the needles, but don't scrub (you want to keep the natural yeast) and coarsly chop to increase flavor distribution.
2. Dissolve sugar in water (warm works best), and cool.
3. Place needles into jar & add sugar water to 1-2" from top.
4. Seal the jar tightly and lightly shake (or swirl) contents to mix thoroughly.
5. Place jar in a warm area (~75º -ish). Keep out of direct sunlight, and allow to ferment for 3-7 days. Do not shake the jar, as there may be a bit of pressure build up!
6. Begin checking the carbonation level after 3 days.
7. When it has reached your desired level of fizz, strain the mixture into another container to remove the pine needles.
8. Keep in the fridge, in a sealed container to conserve the carbonation.
9. Add some lemon, lime, or (my fav) hibiscus or pomegranite juice to your "soda" and enjoy!
Have you made pine needle soda? I'd love to hear your experience!
