Birch Bark [1oz]

Birch is a natural pain reliever containing salicylate, the compound found in

aspirin. Salicylate relieves the inflammation and pain associated with

osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout and generalized muscle pain

Salicylate deters the body's production of certain prostaglandins that are

linked to inflammation, pain, and fever among other things. Another reason

birch calms arthritis and gout is it's cleansing diuretic action that

eliminates toxins and excess water. Sweet birch can have good results against

cellulite. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions of birch bark

support it's traditional uses in skin disorders such as eczema. Traditional

healers have long considered the leaves of the white and silver birch effective

for skin rashes and hair loss. The essential oil of birch is astringent and is

mainly employed for its curative effects in skin affections, especially eczema.

2The American species Betula lenta, (Sweet Birch, Cherry Birch) oil is almost

identical with Wintergreen oil, but is not as toxic. Still, the methyl

salicylate it contains can have harmful effects if used unwisely, and it is not

for general use in aromatherapy and never to be taken internally. Birch bark

and leaf in whole herb form have a much lower toxicity.