Sweet Birch
Also called: Birch
Profile
| Latin Name | Betula lenta |
| Chinese Name | Si Bai Pi/Hua Mu |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Note | Middle |
| Aroma | <Soft> Sharp |
| Color | Clear (Yellow if White Birch/Betula alba) |
| Parts Distilled | Inner Bark |
| Regions | North America |
| Taste | Sweet |
| Nature | Warming |
| Affinity | KI/BL |
| Major Chemical Constituents | Ester (~90-95% methyl salicylate*) *Considered an environmental hazard and harmful in large concentrations |
| Skin Type | NIA |
| Dosage | 10% dilution (not for long-te1m use) |
TCM Categories
Functions
- Expel Wind-Damp-Cold bi-obstruction Drain
- Damp-Cold in the Lower Heater
- Promote release of wei-defensive qi from the joints (divergent channels) promote sweating
Indications
- Cold Bi-Obstruction with localized sharp pain that is worse in cold weather (Ah-shi, ST-36, LI-4, with command points for the afflicted area- e.g., ST-38 for shoulder, BL-40 for lower back, etc.)
- Shan-Sedimentation - gout, kidney stones
Topical Applications
- Apply locally to arthritic/rheumatic joints and sore muscles as a liniment.
- Can be added to blends to break up cellulite, since it drains dampness.
Specific Protocols
- 5-6% dilution of Birch (30%), Atlas Cedar (30%), Rosemary (20%), and Yarrow (20%) to Cold Bi-Obstruction syndromes.
Actions
- Analgesic
- Diuretic
- Circulatory stimulant
Contraindications & Cautions
- Toxic to the Kidneys
- Deficient Kidneys
Additional Comments
- Birch is the common source of Wintergreen Oil, which has similar chemistry, properties, and aroma.
- White Birch (Betula alba) from Northern Europe is less toxic and contains sesquiterpenes and betulenol