What Is Pine Bark?

Pine trees have been of great value for centuries. Not only have they provided wood for building and construction, but the pine cones themselves contain seeds that are highly prized for consumption. The bark, itself, of pine trees is quite thin and brittle. But just underneath that first layer is a tender layer that is edible. Not only is it safe to eat, but full of nutritional value.

Nutrition

• Herbal Medicine

  For centuries, people have been using pine bark as a source of food. Today, however, scientists are discovering that the extract of pine bark is a powerful antioxidant with similar effects as vitamin C and vitamin E. Additionally, it is being used as an herbal remedy for both heart disease and circulatory problems.

Battling Arthritis

• The extract of pine bark has also been found to assist in the battle against Osteoarthritis. The pine bark aids in reducing swelling in the joints so that the patient is allowed a broader and more comfortable range of movement. More than 50 percent of participants in the study have shown signs of improvement.

Side Effects

• It seems that everything we put in our bodies has both good and bad effects. With pine bark, some users have reported chest pain and a tightness in the lungs. There is also documentation of itchy skin or a rash. In children, where pine bark is believed to assist with Attention Deficit Disorder, some have claimed their children to become irritable and to possess less energy.

Wonder Herb

• One has to be realistic when reading all of the claims regarding the benefits of pine bark. The benefits seem to go on and on and range from aiding with the treatment of arthritis to being a cure for jet lag. It is claimed that it helps with a child's Attention Deficit Disorder and can be used to prevent aging. In other words, it's important to keep a clear and educated mind when determining what medicines, herbs, and holistic treatments are of value to you.

Food Fun

• Pine bark does not just refer to the actual bark of a pine tree. It is also a popular, easy to fix dessert. The ingredients include, saltine crackers, butter, brown sugar, almond extract, and broken bits of chocolate. The saltines are lined in a pan while the butter, sugar and extract are heated. Once the sugar is melted, the liquid is poured on the crackers and placed in the oven for about five minutes. After five minutes, the crackers are pulled from the oven and the chocolate bits top them. As the chocolate melts, it should be spread across the tops of the crackers. Once cooled, the pine bark is ready to eat and enjoy.