Birch tree is praised for its graceful delicate foliage and outstanding bark characteristics, while its medicinal properties tend to be neglected. You’ll be surprised to know what is she good for. For instance, birch leaves are known to act as a strong plant diuretic and it is an excellent remedy in case you have problems with high blood pressure since it contains chemicals which increase water loss up to 6 times.As an infusion it could serve as a powerful aid for treating urinary tract infections but also diseases related to liver, pancreas and painful joints. Moreover, it is useful in case of a vitamin deficiency known as scurvy, hair loss, cold, and one more thing which will women in particular find interesting – it helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite – or the hated ‘orange peel affect’.
However, it mainly works on the urinary system to remove waste products, since urination enables our body to cleanse the blood and fatty tissue from which water and uric acid are being extracted. People suffering from rheumatism, gout, feet swelling, joint pain hould definitively consider birch as an alternative way to treat their problems.
Young birch leaves can also be used to treat the affected areas in case of rheumatism, gout, while a decoction of the bark can be used as a wash or added to the bath for treating various skin problems. Fever and cramps can be relieved by a tincture made from birch leaves.
Fresh birch sap has a long tradition of being a natural remedy when it comes to treating liver diseases, gallbladder and kidney problems in addition to skin problems. Obviously, it has versatile medicinal properties.
Another praised product coming from birch is birch sap wine, known to have detoxifying features. Also, if you happen to have trouble concentrating, birch would make a good solution to your problem.
It’s interesting to note that birch tree has acquired a symbolic meaning in some societies, representing a magical tree to Indians, the same as in India and Siberia. Russian scientists believe you should hug a birch tree when you see it in order to collect positive energy.
A. Vukušić