Dwarf pine
The dwarf pine is a tree. The oil extracted from the needles and twigs is used to make medicine. Dwarf pine oil should not be confused with fir needle oil or Scots pine needle oil. Dwarf pine needle oil is used to help remove mucus from the lungs. Dwarf pine needle oil is sometimes added to ointments that are applied directly to the skin to prevent skin infections.
Dwarf pine needles are used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages. In other manufacturing processes, dwarf pine needles are used as a flavoring and fragrance in cough and cold medicines, nebulizer liquids, nasal sprays and ointments for pain relief. Dwarf pine needle oil is also used as a fragrance in soap and cosmetics.
How does dwarf pine needle oil work?
Some chemicals contained in dwarf pine needle oil may be able to fight bacteria and viruses.
How effective are dwarf pine needles?
There is not enough scientific data to say how effective dwarf pine needles are at clearing mucus from the lungs and preventing skin infections when applied to the skin. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of dwarf pine needles in these applications.
Safety and side effects
Dwarfpine needle oil is safe and harmless for most people when used in the amounts typically found in food. Dwarf pine needle oil also appears to be safe and harmless when applied to the skin, although it may cause skin irritation in some people.
Precautions and warnings
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Not enough is known about the use of dwarf pine needles during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid dwarf pine needles.
Allergies: Some people are allergic to dwarf pine needle oil.
Interactions
There is currently no information on interactions between dwarf pine needles and medications or supplements.
Dosage
An appropriate dosage of dwarf pine needles depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At this time, there is insufficient scientific data to determine appropriate dosage ranges for dwarf pine needles. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.