In The Market For An "Immunity Tea"? This Simple 3-Step Brew Is MD-Approved

Ask any expert their version of "immunity tea," and chances are they reveal some sort of ginger-infused brew. Nothing against ginger, of course. Its antihistamine and decongestant properties are great for busting colds1.

"Pine needle is basically a substance found in pine bark," says integrative medicine physician Bindiya Gandhi, M.D. "That is why it has great immune-boosting properties." Pine bark (specifically, pycnogenol—a standardized form of pine bark from a specific tree genus off the southwest coast of France) has been shown to stave off free radicals and manage oxidative stress2 when taken as a supplement. It's also great for restoring immune function3, says Gandhi, by "increasing lymphocyte production and regulating cytokine release reducing inflammation."

And in case you needed more hard science: In another study of 146 people suffering with the common cold, pine bark was able to reduce the duration of cold symptoms, as well as the severity of the symptoms themselves4.

Two routes to take, here. You can either purchase ready-made pine needle tea (here's an organic option), or you can always make your own. According to Gandhi, "It's easy to make." 

For what it's worth: Yes, you can pick the pine right off the branch—just make sure you choose the right type of tree: According to a USDA Forest Service study, Eastern white pine has an impressive amount of ascorbic acid per gram. Another study touts balsam fir needles6 (technically a type of pine) for their vitamin C content, so those two seem to be the best options. Regardless, it's super, super important to I.D. your pine before taking a sip—you don't want to be drinking just anything off the ground, here. If you have any doubts at all, snag a market option that's formulated safe—the DIY route can wait.