Black Spruce bark, resin, and roots have been used by native people to treat wounds, inflammation, respiratory complaints, and skin sores. The cones have been chewed for toothaches. There is limited modern research to back up the folk uses of black spruce.
Scientific studies have demonstrated an antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effect of black spruce extracts and/or its constituents, but more research is needed. Black spruce aroma and its constituents may also help reduce anxiety and improve sleep, but more research is needed. Multiple human studies have discussed the benefits of forest bathing on anxiety. Click the button below for a detailed review of research.
Latin Name: Picea mariana
Family: Pinaceae
Black spruce is a small evergreen tree with bluish needles and upturned branches.
Bark, cones, resin, needles and wood have all been used.
Oil is steam distilled from the needles and branches. The aroma is fresh, light, and pine-like.
Bornyl acetate
Alpha pinene
Beta pinene
Camphene
Limonene
Camphor