A delightful tea made from carefully selected and dried red pine bark (50g). We remove the outer brown layer and use only the inner bark, ensuring a smooth and mild flavor. This tea was a hit when we tried it together—naturally aromatic and easy to drink.

The History of Pine Bark

Throughout history, red pine trees were planted around castles in Japan as an emergency food supply in case of prolonged sieges. Even today, this tradition continues with Matsukawa Mochi, a local specialty from Chokai, Yurihonjo City in Akita Prefecture, made using pine bark.

Globally, pine bark has been valued for centuries. French coastal pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) and New Zealand’s Radiata Pine have been extensively researched for their rich antioxidant properties, including flavonoids and polyphenols. These extracts have gained popularity as dietary supplements for neutralizing oxidative stress.

A notable historical record from the 16th century describes how French explorers in Canada, suffering from scurvy due to Vitamin C deficiency, were advised by indigenous people to drink pine bark and pine needle tea, which helped alleviate their symptoms.

Even in Japan, woodcutters in deep mountain forests have long observed wild deer feeding on freshly cut red pine logs, completely stripping them of their bark—a testament to its nutritional value. Inspired by these stories, woodcutters tried brewing red pine bark into tea and discovered it steeps into a beautiful amber color, carrying a subtle pine aroma yet offering an exceptionally smooth taste.

While there is no specific research data on Shinshu Ina red pine bark, studies on Taiwanese red pine (Pinus massoniana) have identified Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPC)—a potent antioxidant. Future analysis of Shinshu Ina red pine may yield exciting findings.

How to Brew

1. Place 2–5g of pine bark in a heat-retaining pot or thermos.
2. Pour in hot water (90–95°C / 194–203°F).
3. Let it steep for about one hour before drinking.
4. Once it turns a clear amber color, similar to black tea, it's ready to enjoy!

✨ Bonus Uses:

• Use this tea to cook rice—it will turn a delicate pink hue!
• Add it to soups or broths as a hidden depth of flavor.

Precautions

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking prescribed medication for serious conditions, consult a healthcare professional before consumption.

Key Nutrients

• Proanthocyanidins
• Phenolic acids
• Catechins

Country of Origin: Japan