- Fir - needles for decoction, syrup and oil
- Fir - cones in cosmetics
- Fir for sore throat and rheumatism
- Fir for stress
- Fir - contraindications
- Fir in folk medicine
Fir is known for its healing properties. Fir needles, cones and shoots are used in preparations used in respiratory diseases, rheumatic pains, and urinary tract inflammation. Fir strengthens immunity, therefore fir infusions and syrups are recommended in the period of increased incidence of colds or flu.
Silver fir , balsam fir and other varieties have long been used for persistent cough and rheumatic ailments. Already in the beliefs of the ancient Slavs, fir played a key role and was one of the most important trees of cult.
Fir - needles for decoction, syrup and oil
Depending on our needs, various preparations can be prepared from fir shoots or needles. The easiest way is to make an infusion or syrup of pine needles or a decoction of fir shoots.
In the first case, chop the fir needles as finely as possible (1 teaspoon), then pour hot water over them for a few minutes. Then strain and drink while the infusion is still warm. It gives the best results when used in an inflamed throat or during a cold.
We can also prepare a syrup from fir needles.
We wash them, chop them, and then pour one glass of honey over them. Leave for a few days in a darkened place and wait for the juice to release. We shake it from time to time. The finished preparation should be kept in the refrigerator and taken one teaspoon two or three times a day. Can be used prophylactically during the increased incidence of colds.
In turn, to prepare the decoction, we need fir shoots. Pour water over them, boil them, but do not bring them to a boil. After removing from heat, put the pot aside for 20-25 minutes, then drain it. You should drink one tablespoon three times a day, especially when you have a cough.
Fir - cones in cosmetics
Some people also use fir cones, but not for he alth, but for cosmetic purposes.
Pour five cones into about 200 ml of hot water, set aside overnight. Keep the preparation prepared in this way in the refrigerator and wash your face with it like a tonic.
It has antiseptic and antiviral properties, but also moisturizes the skin, regenerates it, makes it more elastic, improves microcirculation, and when used systematically, it reduces wrinkles.
Fir for sore throat and rheumatism
Shoots and needlesFirs have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and expectorant properties. On their basis, you can prepare infusions, syrups, decoctions, as well as tinctures or oils, used orally and externally, e.g. for spreading on the skin or as a bath additive.
Fir preparations are especially effective in diseases of the respiratory system (bronchitis, lung, laryngitis, sore throat), because it soothes the ailments associated with these diseases, they are also used in problems with the urinary system (inflammation of the urinary tract) and in rheumatic pains.
Less known properties of fir concern its influence on the digestive tract. Fir soothes the inflammatory processes of the mucous membranes, regulates the digestive system, and improves the appetite.
Thanks to the bactericidal and antiseptic properties, fir preparations are also applied directly to the skin, because they accelerate the healing of wounds or burns and soothe the symptoms of eczema.
Preparations based on fir are worth using in the autumn and winter period, when the incidence of colds and flu increases. Thanks to the ingredients it contains (including vitamin C, antioxidants), it has a positive effect on the immune system, thus increasing immunity.
Fir for stress
According to naturotherapists, fir has one more huge plus - it has a positive effect on the nervous system. Walks among the fir trees relax, relieve stress, give you mental relaxation.
If we do not have the option of a trip to the fir forest, we can use the beneficial properties of fir in a different way.
Add a few drops of fir oil or fir-based bath oil to the hot water. It eliminates signs of fatigue, calms down, regenerates strength, makes it easier to fall asleep, slightly warms up and relaxes the muscles at the same time.
Fir - contraindications
Fir preparations are well tolerated. Contraindications to their use is allergy to any component of fir. They are also not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Can be used in children (over 4 years of age), but you must consult a pediatrician beforehand.
Fir in folk medicine
It was believed that fir protects against evil powers and helps in coping with all adversities, so it was eagerly planted near houses. In folk medicine, it was used primarily in the case of persistent cough and rheumatic ailments.
Fir symbolized longevity, rebirth, immortality, but also haughtiness, pride, steadfastness and patience.
Undoubtedly influencing the surrounding fir by our ownher great ancestors had such great reverence for her majestic appearance. It grows up to 30-50 meters high, has a soaring, straight, strong trunk, is an evergreen tree, which means it does not drop needles in winter, and is long-lived (it grows even 300-500 years).
Silver fir grows mainly in central and southern Europe, grows well in moist soils, in shady places, it is not served by droughts or too low temperatures. It is not well received in big cities as it is sensitive to air pollution.