Overview
Birch is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for skin disorders. 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 Skin Disorders
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Birch has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing skin disorders:
- Potency (Virya): Sheeta (cold)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Kashaya (astringent), Tikta (bitter)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Safety & Precautions
Our classical sources do not record specific contraindications, drug interactions or overdose signs for Birch. It is a lesser-known remedy, and the safety data is thin.
Some caution follows from its properties. Birch is light, dry and cooling, so heavy or long use could aggravate dryness. If you already have dry skin, constipation or a strong Vata tendency, keep doses small.
Worm infestations and chronic skin conditions should be diagnosed properly. Use Birch under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, especially internally.
Other Herbs for Skin Disorders
See all herbs for skin disorders on the Skin Disorders 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.