🔥 3. Burn as Natural Incense
What you need:
- Dried resin
- A heat-safe burner or charcoal disc
Steps:
- Place resin on a lit charcoal disc or incense burner.
- Let the smoke rise and fill the room.
Why: The smell is calming and earthy — some say it helps with focus and relaxation.
🦷 4. Chew the Resin Like Gum
What you need:
- Dried resin from the bark
Steps:
- Pick off clean, amber-colored pieces of hardened sap.
- Let them dry out fully.
- Chew like regular gum (don’t swallow it).
Why: This was used in the past to freshen breath and calm mild tooth pain.
🦟 5. Make Bug Repellent Sachets
What you need:
- Crushed green seed balls
- Dried herbs (like mint or lavender)
- Small cloth bags or pouches
Steps:
- Mix crushed seed balls with herbs.
- Fill each cloth bag and tie shut.
- Place near windows, closets, or drawers.
Why: Believed to keep bugs and moths away naturally.
🍵 6. Brew a Soothing Tea (Only if You Know What You’re Doing)
What you need:
- Small amount of bark from young branches
- Water
Steps:
- Simmer 1 teaspoon of bark in a cup of water for about 10–15 minutes.
- Let it cool and strain.
Why: Some people drink this to help with flu symptoms or mild pain. Only use small amounts, and not for long.
⚠️ Before You Try Any of This
- These are old remedies passed down over time — they haven’t been fully tested by modern science.
- Don’t use if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have health problems.
- Never eat the dry brown seed balls. Only the green ones are used.
- Always test a small amount first to make sure you’re not allergic.
- When in doubt, ask a professional.
⚠️ Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any plant or natural remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. The author and publisher are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or preparations described. Use at your own risk.
The American sweetgum tree may seem like just another yard tree with annoying spiky balls, but it has a long history of natural use. Whether you want to make a homemade salve, tincture, or just enjoy its scent, this tree can offer more than you think — if you know how to use it.
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