The Beneficial Effects of Birch Tea

In the temperate forests across the northern hemisphere, the striped bark of birch trees color the forest groves in panoramas of white and black. A relative of hazel and alder, this tree has ingrained itself into many cultures through folklore and custom, and is widely admired and respected wherever it grows. Its name is supposedly derived from the Sanskrit word ‘bhurga’, meaning ‘tree whose bark is written on’, in honor of its uniquely striped white bark. Over time, birch has been mentioned in everything from folklore to religious texts, as well as a number of contemporary poets. Nearly all parts of the tree are harvested, including the wood, buds, leaves and bark. While the wood is often used to make furniture and instruments, the buds, leaves and bark offer medicinal benefits. Many cultures have relied on birch tea for centuries, using it for its beneficial effects toward immunity, joint ache, and skin health.

Strengthens Immunity

One of the traditional uses of birch tea is helping to fortify the immune system and  combat infection. Birch tea is known to provide several constituents that are beneficial for building up the immune system, including Vitamin C, tannins, and flavonoids. Furthermore, birch tea has demonstrated natural antibacterial and antiviral properties. This makes it highly effective at helping to overcome infection naturally, complementing the body’s own infection-fighting abilities. It can even offer antiparasitic properties, and has been used to eliminate intestinal worms.

Protects and Soothes the Joints

Birch tea can be highly beneficial for dealing with an affliction of the joints. Known to offer effective anti-inflammatory properties, this tea may be used to provide some relief to joint ache. Its anti-inflammatory effects are caused by betulinic acid, one of its primary constituents. By helping to ease the inflammation, birch tea can help to bring relief to inflammatory joint pain. Birch tea also contains salicylate, a pain-relieving compound the same as that found in aspirin. This may provide a natural alternative to aspirin without the added chemicals.

Promotes Healthy Skin

Several of birch tea’s natural effects can help to promote healthy, beautiful skin.  The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of birch tea are excellent for skin care, as they not only help to reduce redness and inflammation, but can be highly effective in dealing with a number of common skin conditions such as acne and eczema. Birch tea is also an astringent, a substance that promotes the firmness and elasticity of skin. This helps skin to retain its youthful appearance and may prolong the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.

Preparation: Birch tea is easy to prepare. Simply place one birch tea bag in a cup of hot water. Allow the tea to steep for 12-15 minutes, or until desired strength. Birch tea is known to have a strong aroma and a flavor similar to wintergreen. Honey or sugar may be added as desired.

Birch tea is considered safe for human consumption, however, as with any herb, caution should be exercised when drinking this tea for medicinal purposes. Do not drink this tea if you are pregnant. Women who are nursing and individuals taking prescribed medication are advised to consult with their doctor before drinking birch tea.

Birch tea may not be as commonly known as many other herbal teas, but it does have a great deal to offer. Enthusiasts of herbal teas are certain to find this one a very agreeable and beneficial addition to their tea collection. If you are interested in trying birch tea for yourself, you may be able to find it in the teas section of your local health food store. For many people, though, the best place to find herbal teas like birch tea will be from a reliable and high quality online vendor. Buddha Teas is known for providing quality organic herbal teas at affordable prices. All of their teas are made using organically grown, GMO free herbs, prepared in bleach-free tea bags to eliminate any unwanted chemicals. Buddha Teas’ commitment to quality and excellent customer service means you are sure to be satisfied with your purchase. We hope this article has helped to illuminate the many positive effects of birch tea. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us for more information.