Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Astringent (Kashaya), Bitter (Tikta)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Betulin, Tannins, Essential oil
- Also Known As
- English: Himalayan Silver Birch, Birch
Sanskrit: भूर्जपत्र, बहुलवल्कल, लेखनपत्र
Hindi: भोजपत्र
What is Birch (Bhurja / भूर्ज)?
Bhurja (Birch) grows in the Himalayas at elevations of 7 to 12,000 feet above sea level. The bark peels off in thin papery layers and was historically used as writing material (Bhojpatra). The tree grows 50-70 feet tall. The bark contains Betulin, a triterpene, and tannins. The bark is astringent, anthelmintic and useful in skin diseases. The bark layers (Bhojpatra) are used for writing manuscripts. A related species B. alnoides Buch. is found at lower elevations up to 100 feet. The essential oil from the bark has antiseptic properties. Dose: Bark powder 4 to 10 tola; churna 1-2 masha. Verse: 26.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Krimighna (anthelmintic)
- Kusthaghna (anti-dermatosis)
- Vranashodhana (wound healing)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5
How to Use Birch by Condition
Explore how Birch is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (1 sources)
References in Sushruta Samhita
The Salasaradi Gana consists of: sala, sara, raja (teak), karna, khadira (catechu), kadara, kalaskandha, kramuka (areca), bhurja (birch), mesha-shringi, tinisha, chandana (sandalwood), kuchandan, shimshapa, shirisha, asana, dhava, arjuna, tala (palm), shakanaktamala, putika, ashvakarna, aguru (aloewood), shiya, and kaliyaka (verse 8).
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 38: Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs
The Salasaradi Gana consists of: sala, sara, raja (teak), karna, khadira (catechu), kadara, kalaskandha, kramuka (areca), bhurja (birch), mesha-shringi, tinisha, chandana (sandalwood), kuchandan, shimshapa, shirisha, asana, dhava, arjuna, tala (palm), shakanaktamala, putika, ashvakarna, aguru (aloewood), shiya, and kaliyaka (verse 8).
— Sushruta Samhita, Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 38: Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs; Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.