The birch, scientific name Betula pendula , is the name of a genus of trees in the family of Betulaceas, which also belongs to hazel. Natural from Asia and Europe, birch is a small or medium-sized tree, with characteristics of temperate climates of the northern hemisphere, having alternate and simple leaves, which can be lobed or toothed, and its fruit is a small samara. Due to its properties, birch, also popularly known as white birch or birch, can be used as a medicinal plant. Check below the properties, health benefits and indications for use of this plant.
Index
Birch properties
- Astringent;
- Depurative;
- Antiseptic;
- Aromatics;
- Healing;
- Mild urinary tract disinfectant;
- Diuretic (without irritating the kidneys and birch enters the composition of herbal diuretic tea or herbal tea for the kidneys and bladder);
- digestive stimulant;
- Laxative;
- Tonic;
- Sweating;
- Antioxidant;
- Anti-inflammatory.
Indications for use
Birch tea helps to treat kidney cramps, cystitis, urethritis, muscle pain, skin irritation, psoriasis, baldness, gout, dandruff, to purify the blood, joint problems, cellulite, rheumatism, liver (gums).
How to use?
The used parts of the plant are its fresh leaves or bark. It can be used in the form of an infusion, juice, capsule and essential oil, and is available in some health food stores.
birch tea
To prepare birch tea, add a teaspoon of dried birch leaves to a cup of boiling water. Leave to rest for approximately 10 minutes, strain and drink 500 ml throughout the day.
Side effects and contraindications
The use of birch can trigger allergic reactions and contact with the resin that the tree produces can cause irritation to sensitive skin. In this case, the recommendation is to immediately suspend the use of the plant. Birch is contraindicated for pregnant women and for people with cases of heart disease, kidney disease and hemophiliacs. Remember to always consult a doctor you trust to make sure that a certain medication (including the natural one!) can really be used in your specific case.
