Picea glauca
White Spruce
Pinaceae
History and Origin
White spruce has a transcontinental range, from Newfoundland and Labrador to the West, across Canada. Widely spread in the St. Lawrence Valley, this conifer tree is closely linked to the survival of Native people and settlers. In a way, it is Quebec’s eucalyptus. Traditionally, its needles were used for inhalations and fumigations, to treat flu, pulmonary problems and cough as well as to fortify women after parturition. It also enters in the preparation of decoctions made to treat renal problems or disinfect wounds.
Abenaki people drink decoction from the cones to cure urinary problems. The internal bark is crushed to prepare pomade applied on the wounds. The resin is chewed as a laxative. It can also be melted and added to a body fat to make an ointment for wounds.
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