Herb · Asia
Himalayan birch
Betula utilis
Traditionally attributed effects: antiseptic, carminative; for washing wounds and ulcers, skin diseases, hysteria.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Bark powder 1–3 g; decoction 56–112 ml; as a wash.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Bhurjapatra. For centuries the papery bark (bhurja) served as writing material in Kashmir and Central Asia; the Bakhshali manuscript and early Buddhist texts are written on birch bark. In Ayurveda the bark is used for wounds and earache.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Antiseptic, carminative; for washing wounds and ulcers, skin diseases, hysteria.
Preparation and amount
Bark powder 1–3 g; decoction 56–112 ml; as a wash.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- DecoctionPowder and kitchen