Beat the February Blues with Wild Foods

February is always a mixed bag weather wise, and we still have some crispy days ahead of us. Our livers may be suffering from over indulgence and due to short days our brains will be experiencing a shortage of serotonin – a neurotransmitter substance that helps us to cope and to concentrate, and prevents depression. Our bodies may also be lacking in the antioxidant vitamins D (low sunlight), and C (from a lack of fresh leafy greens). Don’t be surprised if you are feeling flat and sluggish!

Scientific studies have shown that contact with nature promotes a state of calm, can lower one's blood pressure and also relieves stress. Why not gather some vitamin rich foods at the same time as soaking up much needed natural light, and beat the blues the natural way!

Pine Needle Tea

Pine is rich in vitamin C and contains aromatic oily substances that help to chase away winter infections. Simply place a good handful of lightly crushed needles in a teapot and pour on boiling water. The flavor is very mild (do not drink it with milk). The tea can be made to taste stronger by a little simmering, but be aware that the more you simmer, the less vitamin C there will be.

Pine Vinegar

The needles make a delicious vinegar. Bring some white wine or cider vinegar to the boil, turn off the heat, and at room temperature seal it into a bottle crammed full with pine needles. Let this steep for 3 months in a dark place and enjoy later on your first spring salads!

NOTE: For both of these recipes be sure to use only pine needles, not those from other types of evergreens such as fir, cypress or even yew, as some of these are very toxic. I hope you enjoy the pine's subtle flavor.

Counting the days to spring….,

Claudia