#31 Pine Pollen, Hormones & Longevity with Dr. Saeid Mushtagh

What if one of the most powerful longevity “superfoods” was literally falling from trees around you? In this episode, I sit down with naturopathic doctor Dr. Saeid Mushtagh to explore the science, tradition, and real-world benefits of pine pollen, a potent plant ally known for supporting hormones, energy, and longevity. From its roots in traditional Chinese medicine to modern clinical insights, this conversation dives deep into how pine pollen influences the HPA axis, supports anabolic health, and may help combat the chronic stress patterns of modern life. You’ll also learn how to harvest, preserve, and use pine pollen safely, and why freshness matters more than species. In this episode, you’ll learn: 00:00 – Teaser & Intro 01:51 – Meet Dr. Saeid Mushtagh 03:04 – The origin story of the Canadian Pine Pollen Company 13:59 – Pine pollen & longevity: what it is & why it's a superfood 18:55 – How to harvest & store pine pollen at home 22:12 – Balancing hormones, reducing cortisol & improving sleep 29:35 – How pine pollen supports adrenal gland health 31:01 – Anabolic health, aging & why hormones decline over time 37:16 – The key enzymes in pine pollen & how they work in the body 39:45 – Pine pollen, oxygen levels, cellular energy & inflammation 45:48 – Best ways to take pine pollen for maximum absorption 49:20 – Pine pollen & gut health: microbiome impact 53:01 – Canadian Pine Pollen Company products & where to find Dr. Saeid 59:42 – Pine pollen & PCOS: is it safe for women with high testosterone?   Resources mentioned:  Wild Certified Organic Pine Pollen | 100% Wildcrafted in Canada:Canadian Pine Pollen Company Enter code Wildherb for a discount at checkout   About the guest, Dr. Saeid Mushtagh: Dr. Mushtagh is a licensed naturopathic Physician and has been practicing naturopathic medicine in Canada since 2006. He is a graduate from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto and specializes in functional medicine, offering personalized diagnosis and treatment in his private practice. His integrative approach is rooted in therapeutic diets as the foundation for healing and long-term wellness. In addition to his clinical work, he is the co-founder of the Canadian Pine Pollen Company. Connect with Dr. Saeid Mushtagh: https://www.instagram.com/canadianpinepollen/   About the host, April Punsalan: April is a botanist, ethnobotanist, herbalist, and the founder of Wild Herb Academy, dedicated to teaching the healing world of plants. Connect with April: https://www.instagram.com/wildherbacademy/   Invitation If Pine speaks to you, take time this winter to sit with a pine tree. Observe its needles, cones, and presence. Let it teach you directly. Bring the wisdom of wild plants with you. Listen to Wild Herbs with April on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. If you loved this episode, please leave us a review or share it with someone who feels called to reconnect with plants in a deeper way. 🌲 Stay wild. Stay human. And remember—you are nature.   With Love, April Punsalan