Frequently Asked Questions
What is pine pollen?
Pine pollen is a fine yellow powder released by pine trees every spring, that forms part of the reproductive life cycle of the tree. The powder is produced inside the catkin (male flowers) of pine trees. Pine pollen has been consumed for health & wellbeing in China, South Korea and Japan for over 3000 years.
How do you harvest it and where do you get the pollen from?
Our pollen is currently harvested south of Kaikōura from trees on land owned and operated by Ngāi Tahu Forestry.
What type of pine trees is the pollen sourced from?
We harvest our pine pollen from a special standing of coastal Pinus radiata trees with a specific genetic and nutritional profile that has been analysed by scientists. We have spent years carefully assessing the biochemistry of the pollen from these trees in the laboratory, to ensure we are creating the most pure, safe and effective products possible.
What are the potential health benefits of taking pine pollen?
Pine Pollen has been consumed as a superfood and Chinese herbal supplement for thousands of years, and is a powerhouse of nutrients. Per gram, it is one of the most nutrient dense foods on earth. It is packed with amino acids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, co-enzymes, flavanoids, including over 200+ beneficial natural biomolecules.
Disclaimer: Please note that the following information does not relate to pollen from New Zealand. Most of the research on pine pollen has investigated Pinus massoniana, Pinus tabuliformis and Pinus yunnanensis, which are different species to Pinus radiata, the most common pine species in New Zealand. This information should not be used to infer health claims or medicinal benefits from the products on our website.
Western perspective:
° Supports immune function
° Supports a healthy endocrine (hormonal) system
° Supports energy levels
° Supports a healthy libido
° Provides excellent nutritional support
Traditional Chinese perspective:
In ancient China, pine pollen is believed to invigorate Qi (vital energy or life force, pronounced “Chi”). Traditional use often cites healthy function of many of the major organs of the body; including the heart, spleen, lungs, kidneys and liver.
Lung tonic, used to support the immune system and skin complexion.
Kidney tonic, used to maintain the health of the endocrine system, brain, bones and hair.
Liver tonic, used to stimulate the liver and regulate bile secretion.
Heart tonic, used to support cardiovascular endurance, and overall health of the blood.
Spleen tonic, which nourishes the muscles and supports metabolism.
What’s the difference between pine pollen powder and the pine pollen Supercharge® liquid tincture?
Our pine pollen Supercharge® is a liquid extract of pine pollen, suitable for those looking specifically for those looking for a healthy libido, sports performance and overall male vitality. It is recommended predominantly for men over the age of 25, and is not suitable for pregnant or nursing women, or anyone under the age of 25*.
Our pine pollen powder on the other hand, is suitable to most people, is multi-purpose, and can be used be used both internally (with food/drinks, etc) and externally (applied directly on the skin).
How do I consume Bio Gold's Supercharge® Liquid Extract?
One serving = 1 to 1.5 ml which can be dispensed up to 5 times daily
underneath the tongue. Hold below the tongue for at least 30 seconds before swallowing.
Important note: Pine pollen Supercharge® strong stuff. Start slow with a few drops to test it out first. The natural plant biomolecules in our pine pollen tincture are best absorbed into the bloodstream under the tongue. If you experience any discomfort from the strong taste, we suggest mixing it with a tablespoon or small glass of water or fruit juice to increase comfort.
Is the Supercharge® Liquid Extract safe for women to consume?
Absolutely, however we recommend our Supercharge® products in small doses for women who are aged 40+ for increased energy and dealing with symptoms related to menopause. We advise starting in small doses of 0.25ml daily, for increased energy and hormonal balance.
We recommend our pine pollen powder to women of all ages for full body, hormonal health and balance.
Should Supercharge® leave me with the tingling feeling underneath my tongue?
Yes, this means its working! If you experience a tingle/light burning underneath your tongue after taking our Supercharge® liquid extract, it means that it’s working and absorbing properly. To increase comfort, you may want to mix our Supercharge® liquid extract into some water or fruit juice first.
What about hay fever and allergies?
In New Zealand, Crown Research Institute Scion Research published an info sheet about pine pollen that states: “It is more often an irritant. This could have something to do with the relatively large pollen grains carrying few proteins and having a waxy coating. The pollen grains do not penetrate as deeply into nasal passages as smaller pollen types, and the wax protects the proteins leaking out. Other tree species such as wattles or silver birch release pollen at the same time of the year as pines. Their spiky pollen grains can be much more allergenic. It is possible that people suffering from allergies are reacting to these pollens.”
In summary, pines (alone) may cause reactions in a very small proportion of the population. However, if you do have a known pine allergy we recommend taking caution, and speaking to your doctor or health professional before consuming pine pollen.
(source: https://www.scionresearch.com/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/57115/Pollen_info_sheet.pdf)
Do you ship internationally?
At the moment we are only open to wholesale orders / business collaborations from overseas - please send enquiries for this to info@pinepollen.co.nz.
If I am unsatisfied with the product I received can I return it?
We know you'll love our pine pollen just as much as we do. In fact, if for any reason you're not completely satisfied, just send back your product within 30 days and we'll issue a full refund." *Standard terms and conditions apply, Please view Terms and Conditions in the website footer.
Does collecting pine pollen impact bees?
No, the bees are not affected. Pines are a wind-pollinated tree species and are therefore not visited by bees which instead collect their pollen from insect-pollinated flowers and plants. Bees do however collect pine sap, and use it when building their hives.
How can I contribute / collaborate / get involved in this project?
We’d love to hear from you. Please fill in a few details on our ‘get involved’ section of our website.