Eastern White Pine Resin (Sap)

Description:

I have come across countless trees that came down during winter storms. This beautiful pine tree appeared like it had been very healthy, just unlucky enough to have been felled by the elements. The sap was pouring out of its wounds and glistened beautifully.

Pine trees are very resilient, coniferous trees. Like most trees, they produce sap. Sap is essential to a tree because although the roots are responsible for taking in water and nutrients, the sap is the stuff that actually spreads these nutrients throughout the tree.

Habitat:

I found this tree torn in pieces in a mixed forest along the banks of Wappinger Creek.

Notes:

Pine tree sap has numerous uses - including use as glue, making turpentine and candles, starting fires, and waterproofing baskets, pails, and boats. Interestingly, the Chippewa also used pine sap to treat infections and even gangrenous wounds. This is because pine sap apparently has a number of efficient antimicrobials.