Ingredient

Pinus Densiflora Leaf Powder (Pine Needle Powder)

No essential oils were harmed in the grinding of this powder.

This powder, obtained from the needles of a tall Asian pine tree, infuses warm bath water with a piney aroma and cleansing benefits.

A spiky business

Pinus densiflora is a red pine tree that grows in Japan, Korea, parts of China, and a little bit of Russia. Its Latin name, densiflora, suggests dense flowering, but pine trees don’t flower! This likely refers to the beautiful clusters of pale-yellow pollen cones it produces.

Red pine needles are typically 8-12 cm long (3-4.5 inches) and contain an essential oil that can be extracted and used for its fresh, woody scent as well as its antibacterial and antifungal properties. The arrangement of these needles, which from a distance resemble pointed pom-poms, makes this red pine an excellent ornamental tree and a good candidate for bonsai.

Bathe in tea

In Japan and Korea, red pine needle powder is sold as tea. It is said to have high catechin content, an antioxidant compound that protects the plant’s cells against oxidative damage. These days, antioxidants are frequently added to food to prevent spoilage and to cosmetics to help the skin combat the damaging effects of external stressors such as pollution, lack of sleep, or sun exposure.