The birch tree (Betula pendula L.) has been valued and used for health-promoting purposes for centuries. In the beliefs of Germanic, Slavic and Baltic tribes, the birch was regarded as a sacred tree, symbolising purity. It was also a symbol of spring and the rebirth of life. It was believed that the birch healed not only the body but also the soul, and to this day many people believe that spending time amongst birch trees brings comfort, restores inner balance and promotes a sense of calm.
This seemingly ordinary tree harbours great power – according to scientists, it has a positive effect on the condition and quality of the air we breathe every day. Birch leaves have negative ionising properties.
Nowadays, we are breathing air of increasingly poor quality. Exhaust fumes from cars, heating systems and household appliances that we use regularly contribute to the deterioration of its quality.
Characteristics
Birch trees grow widely and can be found in almost all parts of Europe. They are not demanding trees. They thrive in sandy, dry, damp and clay soils. They do not require too much sun and are not sensitive to frost.
The tree is characterised by chalk-white, almost black bark on the lower part of the trunk. It grows very quickly and reaches impressive heights (up to 30 m).
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Medicinal uses
Birch leaves (Folium Betulae) are valued in naturopathy and cosmetics. They can be used externally or internally (in the form of an infusion). They contain a number of valuable ingredients, including:
• Essential oils;
• Vitamin C and provitamin A;
• Phytoncides and saponins;
• Nicotinic acid;
• Flavonoids;
• Glycosides;
• Tannins;
• Minerals: potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese and zinc;
• Betulin – exhibits antiviral activity.
Birch leaves have diuretic, diaphoretic and anti-rheumatic effects, improve metabolism and detoxify the bloodstream. Birch leaf extract is used to treat chronic urinary tract infections. Fresh juice from the leaves, harvested in spring, stimulates filtration in the glomeruli of the kidneys and increases the excretion of harmful waste products. Many detox products contain birch leaves. We would like to draw your attention to the Detox drink that we can offer you and supply from stock. You can find more information about this in this newsletter.
When applied externally, they soothe acne lesions, irritation and inflammation. They also boost collagen and elastin production, which is why they are often used in anti-wrinkle creams.
Birch leaves can also be used as a compress for puffy and tired eyes. An infusion made from them regulates the function of the sebaceous glands, removes dandruff and prevents the hair from becoming greasy.
