Overview
Birch is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for parasites and worms. 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.
How Birch Helps with Parasites and Worms
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Birch has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing parasites and worms:
- Potency (Virya): Sheeta (cold)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Kashaya (astringent), Tikta (bitter)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Other Herbs for Parasites and Worms
See all herbs for parasites and worms on the Parasites and Worms page.
▶ Classical Text References (1 sources)
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.