Spruce tips honey is a delightful, aromatic creation made by infusing young spruce tips into a sweet syrup, often called “honey” even though it’s plant-based. This golden treasure captures the vibrant power of spring and offers a wide range of health benefits that most people have never heard of. Let’s dive into what makes it so special!
15 Surprising Benefits of Spruce Tips Honey
1. Soothes sore throats
Its gentle, piney sweetness coats the throat, offering quick natural relief.
2. Eases mild coughs
The soothing properties help calm dry, tickling coughs.
3. Clears stuffy noses
The aromatic oils help open nasal passages naturally.
4. Supports lung health
Spruce tips have traditionally been used to ease breathing and strengthen the lungs.
5. Calms mild seasonal allergies
Its anti-inflammatory effects can reduce mild hay fever symptoms.
6. Eases digestive discomfort
Small doses may help with bloating and minor indigestion.
7. Boosts mood naturally
The fresh aroma can lift spirits and promote a sense of wellbeing.
8. Refreshes the skin
Used topically (diluted), it can help soothe irritated skin.
9. Acts as a mild expectorant
It helps the body naturally expel mucus from the chest.
10. Promotes oral health
Its antimicrobial properties can support healthier gums and fresher breath.
11. Helps with mild fatigue
The natural sugars and oils provide a gentle, energizing lift.
12. Supports joint comfort
Traditional uses suggest it may help reduce minor aches.
13. Balances minor hormonal swings
Its calming properties can help smooth out mild mood fluctuations.
14. Packed with antioxidants
Helps protect the body from oxidative stress.
15. Rich in nutrients
Supplies vitamin C, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds.
How to Make Spruce Tips Honey at Home
Making spruce tips honey is simple and fun! It requires just a little patience and attention to detail. Here’s the full process from start to finish:
1. Harvesting Spruce Tips
- When to pick: In spring, when the new growth appears — soft, bright green, and about 2–5 cm long.
- Where to pick: Find healthy, pesticide-free trees in clean areas, away from busy roads.
- How to pick: Gently pinch off the tips without damaging the branch. Never take too many from one tree; harvesting ethically keeps the trees healthy.
2. Preparing the Spruce Tips
- Rinse the spruce tips gently under cool water to remove dirt or insects.
- Pat dry with a clean towel or air-dry them briefly.
3. Infusing the Honey (or Syrup)
You have two main options:
Option 1: Infused Honey (if using real honey)
- Fill a clean jar halfway with spruce tips.
- Pour raw, local honey over the tips until they are fully submerged.
- Stir gently to remove air bubbles.
- Seal the jar and store it at room temperature for 2–4 weeks.
- Stir or turn the jar upside down every few days.
- After infusion, strain out the spruce tips if desired, or leave them in for a stronger flavor.
Option 2: Vegan Spruce “Honey” (sugar-based)
- Place 1 cup of spruce tips and 2 cups of water into a pot.
- Simmer gently for about 30 minutes without boiling hard.
- Strain out the spruce tips.
- Add 2 cups of sugar to the strained liquid.
- Simmer again until it thickens into a syrupy texture (around 15–25 minutes).
- Pour into clean jars while hot and seal.
4. Storage
- Store your spruce tips honey or syrup in a cool, dark place.
- Once opened, keep it in the fridge to extend freshness.
5. How to Use It
- Take a spoonful when you feel a sore throat coming on.
- Stir it into warm teas (especially mint or chamomile).
- Drizzle over yogurt, pancakes, or toast.
- Use a small amount in marinades for a unique twist.
Disclaimer:
Always make sure you correctly identify spruce trees and avoid harvesting from toxic lookalikes like yew trees. If you have allergies to pine or other conifers, consult a healthcare provider before using.