Catriona May
Should the different parts of the birch tree be ascribed equivalent therapeutic actions?
Abstract
This dissertation seeks to examine the therapeutic actions ascribed to the buds, leaf, bark, sap and syrup of birch.
Analysis of the literature showed that there were discrepancies in herbal texts regarding the therapeutic actions and indications ascribed to the different parts of birch. This research is of particular importance in order to fill the gap in knowledge regarding the different parts of birch and also, as there is a shift towards finding non-timber products for trees within Scotland, so that forests can be protected while still being economically viable.
Through a literature review of traditional and modern herbal texts and current research, the information was collated to explore the therapeutic uses of the different parts of birch and then critically assessed.
The results showed that the parts of birch used medicinally have changed over time while still being attributed similar actions. Extrapolation of data from pharmacological research suggests that each part of birch could potentially have a differing action due to variations in their constituents but further research would be required to determine if this is the case.
