Birch Herb, Betulaceae, Betula spp
This tree is has 3 main types identifiable by its color. There are white, yellow and black Birch trees. Though all these types have healing properties, the kind that is most sought after is the one that produces tar. This tar is actually the thick oily sap with has balsamic fragrance.
The sap, which is called Oleum Rusci, Oleum Betulinum, or Dagget, is during the final process of leather-making. It is placed at the last stage to give shine to the leather and to prevent mold.
Other uses for the oil are for fermentation of vinegar, beer, and wine. The oil is also used for its insect repellant properties.
The plant is native to Northern European countries. A soft wood tree, it has reddish brown branches and white trunk bark. The thin white bark was formerly used as writing paper.
Birch charcoal was once used to make gun powder. This plant is hardy and easy to grow. When gathering the brown catkins for seed, place them inside a large bag. This is to prevent seed loss.
If the seeds are to be dried, it has to be spread on a flat surface and dried in the sun for 3 weeks. The fresh seeds are sown in spring or autumn. Dried seeds have to be stratified for 1 to 2 months before sowing. Cover newly sown seeds with a light layer of compost.
The medicinal applications of the Birch herb are many. The leaves can be made into strong tea drank for treatment of urinary tract infections, cystitis, gout, rheumatism, an as a laxative for constipation.
The leaves are boiled and strained for cleansing of boils and other similar skin eruptions. The oil is a remedy for eczema, scabies and related skin disorders. The healing oil of the Birch tree also relieves muscle pain. It is a vital ingredient to many topical liniments and ointments.
There are cautions to be aware of when using the Birch herb for medical applications. It cannot be used externally or internally by those who have aspirin, pollen and nasal allergies.
Birch tree oil and its herbal products cannot be applied on children, pregnant and lactating women as methyl salicylate is highly toxic, can lead to poisoning, and in extreme cases, death. Similar Posts
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