Though they may look the same, not all pine trees are equal. Such is the case with the Siberian Fir tree (also known as Abies Sibirica). To the Sumerians, whose civilization was a precursor to the modern world yet remains clouded in mystery, the Siberian Fir was a sacred tree. It was viewed as a symbol of power, grandeur and immortality. This is confirmed by writing on clay tablets from about 7,000 years ago.
The reason ancient cultures valued this pine so highly was due to its medicinal and therapeutic properties. Sumerians would make broths, compresses and primitive Band-Aids with the oils and saps from this tree. The anti-bacterial and fungal properties of the Siberian Fir are amazing. In fact, in forests where this tree grows, the air is basically completely free of microbial pathogens.