Vitamin C and Pine Trees

Riverwalker, over on his blog, Stealth Survival, brings up an important thought about getting a good dose of vitamin C during an emergency: pine needles. Pine needles, especially the new, light green needles, are full of vitamin C. All you need to do is make a tea, or "soup" as he calls it, by steeping a handful of needles in some hot water. A touch of honey can be added for a little extra flavor. He says that different types of pine trees have slightly different flavors.

Vitamins and Minerals

If you are preparing for an emergency by storing food, you will need to have a year's supply of multi-vitamins, for each person, to supplement your nutrition.

"If you are currently taking any vitamin or mineral supplements you may want to check with the manufacturer to determine the storage life of these items. Once you have determined what you want to store it would be best to store them in a cool, dry and dark place for the longest storage life. Most multi-vitamin and mineral manufacturers we consulted say their product has full potency up to 3 years. At the end of three years it does not mean you need to discard them, it merely means that they are less potent."

[From: "Basic Preparedness" by The Survival Center, Inc., p. 35].