Pine Cone Jam is a unique Siberian delicacy that is a popular sweet treat as well as a traditional medicine . The young green cones of certain pines are collected in May/June when they are still soft and fresh, instead of closer to the winter months when the cones become large and woody. These cones are then cooked in sugar to make pine cone jam – sweet preserved pine cones in a tasty syrup.
Health Benefits of Pine Cone Jam
This jam is not only delicious but has an array of health benefits too. It contains phytoncides which have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as being abundant in antioxidants, vitamin C and B vitamins. It has a wide variety of uses in natural medicine:
- Immune boosting – this is due to the phytoncides present in the cones which help keep the body resistant to viruses and infections.
- Digestive aid – used to alleviate symptoms associated with ulcers and gastritis
- Detox aid – due to the high level of antioxidants and tannins, pine cones may assist in cleansing the blood, reducing cholesterol and improving the livers detox processes
- Anti viral – due to this property it is a popular remedy for sore throats, colds and flu
- Expectorant – may be used as a natural expectorant for those wishing to clear mucous from the respiratory system as a result of an infection or from smoking tobacco
- An aid during menstruation – pine cone jam can be taken during menstruation to help boost iron levels
In addition to the above, Pine cone jam is often used as a natural medicine to treat respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis, tuberculosis, pneumonia, pleurisy and bronchial asthma.
How to use it
Aside from being eaten like a jam – the pine cones in the syrup are soft and pleasant to eat, there are a variety of ways that you can use this jam:
- add a spoon of the syrup to your tea
- drizzle it over pancakes or on crunchy toast
- take a spoonful like you would when taking cough mixture or medicine (1.5 tablespoons per day may assist in respiratory ailments)
- Drizzle over ice cream or pair with your favourite cheese
- use as a replacement for honey
A perfect addition
Pine cone jam is a perfect addition to both your kitchen pantry and your home medicine cabinet – a unique delicacy that can be brought out for a special occasion or used when you feel like you’re coming down with a cold.
Precautions
As this jam is made with sugar – it is not recommended for diabetics. When treating children, it is best to consult a paediatrician to ensure correct dosage for your child.
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