birch

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

The bark, leaves, and sap of the birch tree have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Birch bark contains salicylates, which are like the active ingredient in aspirin and have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It has been used to treat arthritis, rheumatism, and other inflammatory conditions. Birch sap is also used as a diuretic and detoxifying agent. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

None

Black Box Warning

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication / Caution: 

Allergy:  

People who are allergic to birch pollen may also be allergic to birch herb. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. 

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:  

There is not enough information on the safety of birch herb during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is best to avoid using it during these times. 

Medications:  

birch herb may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diuretics, and medications for diabetes. If you are taking any medication, consult your healthcare provider before using birch herb. 

Kidney problems:  

birch herb contains compounds that can be harmful to the kidneys if taken in large amounts. People with kidney problems should avoid using birch herb or use it under the guidance of a healthcare provider. 

Surgery:  

birch herb may increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. It is best to stop using it at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:

Pregnancy category: N/A

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown

Pregnancy category:

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show risk to the fetus in the first/later trimester.      
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.
• Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

birch (Betula spp.) is an herb that has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It contains several active compounds, including betulin, betulinic acid, flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils, that are responsible for its pharmacological effects. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

Anti-inflammatory: birch contains salicylates, which are like the active ingredient in aspirin. Salicylates are known to have anti-inflammatory effects and can be useful in treating conditions like arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory conditions. 

Analgesic: birch can help relieve pain, especially when it comes to joint pain and other musculoskeletal disorders. The betulinic acid in birch has been shown to have analgesic effects. 

Diuretic: birch is a natural diuretic, which means that it can help increase urine production and eliminate excess fluid from the body.  

Antimicrobial: birch contains essential oils that have antimicrobial properties, which can be helpful in treating infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. 

Antioxidant: birch is a rich source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress and prevent damage to cells and tissues. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

birch herbs are typically consumed orally in the form of teas, extracts, or capsules. The absorption of its active compounds depends on the method of preparation and the dosage. 

Distribution 

After absorption, the active compounds in birch herb are distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream.  

Metabolism 

The active compounds in birch herbs undergo metabolism in the liver, where they are transformed into metabolites that are more easily excreted by the body.  

Elimination and Excretion 

The metabolites of birch herbs are primarily excreted through the urine and feces. The excretion rate and mechanism of birch herb metabolites can also vary depending on individual factors. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

birch herb, also known as Betula pendula or white birch, is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. It is commonly administered in the form of teas, tinctures, and extracts. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: birch 

Why do we use birch? 

birch is a type of tree commonly used for various purposes due to its desirable properties. Here are some of the reasons why we use birch: 

Furniture and Cabinetry: birch wood is popular for furniture and cabinetry due to its hardness and durability. It is also easy to work with and can be stained or painted to achieve different finishes. 

Paper and Pulp: birch wood is used in paper and pulp products because of its strength, flexibility, and smooth texture. It is also a fast-growing species, which makes it a sustainable choice for paper and pulp production. 

Firewood: birch wood burns well and produces a high heat output, making it a popular choice for firewood. 

Decorative Uses: birch bark and branches are often used for decorative purposes, such as for making wreaths, baskets, and other crafts. Birch bark is also used in the construction of traditional canoes and other outdoor equipment. 

Traditional Medicine: Some traditional medicine systems use birch bark for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.