Pine Buds and Propolis Syrup
Breathe easy, live healthy - with natural pine and propolis syrup!
Powerful natural remedy for cough, immunity and respiratory conditions. Pine bud and propolis syrup soothes the throat, supports lung health and detoxifies the body. Ideal for the whole family, especially in the cold season! 🌲🍯
Servings
Approximately 1.25 liters of syrup, one tablespoon being one serving (15 ml), results in ~83 servings.
Ingredients
Materials
- - 1 liter glass jar with lid
- - Fine sieve or gauze
- - Wooden spoon
- - Dark colored glass for storage
- - Enameled or stainless steel jar
Preparation
- Preparing the buds
➡️ Choose fresh, young, light green pine buds, preferably picked in May.
➡️ Wash them well under cold running water to remove impurities.
➡️ Drain in a sieve or on a clean towel. - Slow boiling (decoction extraction)
➡️ Put pine buds in an enameled or stainless steel pot (no Teflon or aluminum).
➡️ Add plain water, ideally to cover the buds in the pot.
➡️ Bring to boiling point, then reduce heat to low.
➡️ Simmer slowly for 60 minutes, partially covered with a lid (so all the liquid doesn't evaporate, but don't boil over, either).
➡️ Stir gently occasionally with a wooden spoon. - Overnight infusion (warm maceration)
➡️ After the 60 minutes of boiling, turn off the heat and cover the pot completely with the lid.
➡️ Leave to infuse for 12 hours (ideally overnight) at room temperature in a place away from direct light - Straining the liquid
➡️ After the 12 hours, strain the liquid through a fine sieve or double cheesecloth into a clean bowl.
➡️ Squeeze the remaining buds well to extract all the flavorful and valuable liquid. - Adding honey and tincture
➡️ Add honey over the infused liquid and stir until the honey dissolves completely. Avoid using metal - use a wooden or silicone spoon.
➡️ Once the syrup is completely homogenized, add the propolis tincture and stir well for 1-2 minutes so that the propolis incorporates evenly.
Observations
➡️ Best storage: refrigerated, max. 2-3 months.
➡️ Can be combined with other herbs (thyme, calendula) for enhanced effects.
➡️ Ideal for use during cold periods of the year.
Conditions where this syrup has beneficial effects
- Cough: The syrup has expectorant and soothing properties and is effective in both dry and productive coughs.
- Colds and flu: Thanks to the antiviral and immunostimulating effects of propolis, the syrup can help combat symptoms and shorten the duration of these conditions.
- Bronchitis: The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of the ingredients help relieve bronchial inflammation and reduce symptoms.
- Allergic rhinitis: The anti-inflammatory effects of the syrup may help reduce symptoms such as nasal congestion and sneezing.
- Sinusitis: The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may help reduce sinus inflammation and fight associated infections.
- Low immunity: Regular consumption of the syrup can strengthen the immune system, preventing various infections.
- Gastritis: Although not a primary treatment, the anti-inflammatory effects of propolis may provide some benefit in soothing the gastric lining.
Administration
➡️ Adults: 1 tablespoon 3 times daily before meals.
➡️ Children over 3 years: 1 teaspoon 2 times a day, before meals.
⚠️ Note: For children under 3 years, consult a doctor before taking.
🕒 Recommended treatment duration:
For acute conditions (cough, cold, flu):
➤ 7-14 consecutive days, until symptoms disappear.
For immune maintenance or detox:
➤ 15-20 days, followed by a break of 7 days, then can be resumed.
🧊 Other consumption suggestions:
➤ It can be taken as is or diluted in a cup of lukewarm (not hot ❌) water or tea.
➤ Avoid taking immediately after heavy or very cold meals - may reduce absorption.
Effects and benefits
- Natural expectorant - clears mucus
- Calms dry and irritative cough
- Supports airway health
- Strengthens the immune system
- Has antiviral and antibacterial effect
- Protects the lungs
- Fights respiratory infections
- Relieves asthma symptoms
- Detoxifies the body
- Stimulates blood circulation
- Relieves fatigue
- Contributes to cell regeneration
- Anti-inflammatory action
- Supports oral cavity health
- Improves sleep quality
- Reduces throat irritation
- Powerful antioxidant effect
- Soothes irritated mucous membranes
- Helps bronchitis and sinusitis
- Adjuvant in flu and colds
Side effects
- Allergic reactions (hives, itching) - to propolis or honey
- Stomach irritation on an empty stomach
- Mild headache (immune response)
- Mild digestive upset (bloating, nausea)
- Pungent taste or burning on excessive administration
Contraindications
- Allergies to bee products (honey, propolis)
- Allergy to conifers (pine)
- Children under 3 years
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women (without medical advice)
- People with severe liver disease
- Advanced diabetes mellitus (honey contains sugars)
- Anticoagulant treatment (possible interaction with propolis)
FAQ 💡❓
Can I consume the syrup if I have diabetes?
➡️ It contains honey, so it should be taken with caution and with a doctor's advice.
Is it safe for children?
➡️ Only over 3 years and in small doses. Under this age it is not recommended.
Can I use alcohol-free propolis tincture?
➡️ Yes, but the effectiveness may be slightly reduced. Alcohol-free versions are milder.
Is it necessary to boil the buds?
➡️ No, only infusion is sufficient to preserve the active principles.
Can I add lemon to the recipe?
➡️ Yes, for extra vitamin C, but it may reduce shelf life.
Is it effective for colds?
➡️ Yes, especially if taken within the first few days of symptoms.
Can I use propolis if I take medication?
➡️ Check with your doctor - it may interact with anticoagulant treatments.
How long can I keep the syrup?
➡️ Up to 2-3 months in the refrigerator, in an airtight container.
Is the syrup also good for productive cough?
➡️ Yes, it helps to thin and eliminate mucus.
Does it have any effect on blood pressure?
➡️ Not significant, but consult your doctor if you are on blood pressure medication.
Can it be taken preventively?
➡️ Yes, in courses of 7-10 days per month in the cold season.
Can it be taken long-term?
➡️ Breaks between courses are recommended to avoid overloading the body.
Does it interact with antibiotics?
➡️ Not directly, but propolis may potentiate antimicrobial effects.
Can I use fir buds instead of pine?
➡️ Yes, but flavor and composition vary slightly.
Does it help sinusitis?
➡️ Yes, it reduces inflammation and thins sinus secretions.