In a survival traing camp, I was introduced to pine-needle-tea and I became hooked. Not only do i love the smell with a little cinnimon and sugar it is down right exquisite. It also has the advantage of being rich in vitiman C.
My only experience with Pine-needle tea (pine needles soaking in a gallon jar over night) was during a sweat lodge ceremony. This pine needle infused water has been a traditional drink for many Amerindian tribes. I've nibbled on pine needles while hiking. I'm thinking of collecting some next time I have access and adding them to our mint sun-tea.