Birch trees are known for the further use of their healing components: the sugar substitute xylitol obtained from birch trees is becoming increasingly popular. Birch water, birch sap or teas made from tree leaves are also among the classics. With its buds, however, the birch provides another versatile helper in matters of health, vitality and beauty.

You can do all sorts of things with birch buds

Recognizing the buds of the birch

The buds of the birch grow up to four millimeters long. Their color appearance ranges from a matt brown to greenish tones with a glossy surface. The elongated buds taper slightly to a point. In the spring time they contain the full potential of the young birch leaf. Three dosage forms are particularly suitable for health purposes:

  • Birch bud tea for internal use
  • Pure consumption of young buds
  • Oil or tincture of birch buds for external use

Harvest birch buds properly

The birch develops its first buds in spring. This also marks the beginning of the harvest season for the birch buds, when they first appear in early March. It is best to pick them as early as possible, then the young buds taste best. Once they have disappeared, a new shoot appears immediately. The easiest and safest way to detach the birch buds from the branch is to twist them around their own axis.

Brew tea from birch buds

A soothing tea made from birch buds relieves the unpleasant symptoms of colds and can reduce fever. It also stimulates sweating and thus promotes the elimination of pathogens. The infusion tastes sweet with a slightly wooden note. How to prepare your birch bud tea:

  1. Lightly crush a teaspoon of young birch buds with the mortar - a simple fork will also work.
  2. Place the buds loosely in a cup and pour 250 milliliters of hot water over them.
  3. Then cover the tea with a saucer and let it steep for at least ten minutes.
  4. After that, you can strain the birch buds.

Make birch bud oil yourself

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, birch bud oil works excellently as a rub for aching joints, for example. To do this, put a handful of buds in a screw-top jar and pour 200 milliliters of pure quality oil, such as almond oil, over them. Cover and let the mixture sit at room temperature for four weeks. Shake it every day though. After that, you can filter and apply it.

If you want to make a tincture for wound disinfection instead, replace the oil with 100 milliliters of at least 40 percent double grain.

Category:

Trees