How to Prepare Pine Bark Extract
Pine bark extract is derived from the maritime pine tree, or Pinus maritima. The active medicinal ingredient in pine bark extract is called pycnogenol, and it is sold in capsule form as an antioxidant supplement. It has also been linked to a wide range of other potential benefits and treatments for everything from cancer to sunburns; however, the scientific evidence supporting these claims is sparse. This herbal extract is water-based and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professionalThings You'll Need
- 1 cup maritime pine tree bark, fresh
- 12 cups water
- 1/4 cup glycerine
- 2 large bowls
- Large pot
- Cheesecloth
- Medicine bottle, amber
Instructions
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1
Wash your fresh pine bark to remove any debris. Allow the bark to remain wet.
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2
Fill the pot with 8 cups of water and place on stove at high heat until boiling. Put your bark into the water.
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3
Cover the pot and lower the heat. Allow the bark to simmer until the water has reduced by one half.
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4
Pour the stewing liquid into a separate bowl, straining the bark and loose pieces using your cheesecloth. Set the liquid aside.
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5
Place the strained herbs back into your pot and add the remaining 4 cups water. Bring the water to a boil again.
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6
Simmer the pot until the liquid has reduced by one half, then remove from the heat.
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7
Strain the bark from the liquid using your cheesecloth. Be sure to squeeze out all of the liquid. Pour the liquid into the same bowl as in Step 4. You have now extracted the active ingredients from the bark.
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8
Return the strained liquid to the large pot and heat on high until boiling. Once boiling, cover and allow the liquid to simmer until it has reduced to 1/4 cup. This will take several hours.
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9
Remove the concentrated liquid from the stove and allow to cool.
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10
Add the glycerine to the cool bark extract. Glycerine preserves and stabilizes the extract.
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11
Pour the extract into amber medicine bottles and store in a cool, dry place.
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