Birch

(Himalayan Silver Birch)
Sanskrit: भूर्ज • Botanical: Betula utilis D. Don

Bhurja (Birch) grows in the Himalayas at elevations of 7 to 12,000 feet above sea level. The bark peels off in thin papery layers and was historically used as writing material (Bhojpatra). The tree grows 50-70 feet tall. The bark contains Betulin, a triterpene, and tannins. The bark is astringent, anthelmintic and useful in skin diseases. The bark layers (Bhojpatra) are used for writing manuscripts. A related species B. alnoides Buch. is found at lower elevations up to 100 feet. The essential oil from the bark has antiseptic properties. Dose: Bark powder 4 to 10 tola; churna 1-2 masha. Verse: 26.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Betulin, Tannins, Essential oil
Also Known As
English: Himalayan Silver Birch, Birch
Sanskrit: भूर्जपत्र, बहुलवल्कल, लेखनपत्र
Hindi: भोजपत्र

What is Birch (Bhurja / भूर्ज)?

Bhurja (Birch) grows in the Himalayas at elevations of 7 to 12,000 feet above sea level. The bark peels off in thin papery layers and was historically used as writing material (Bhojpatra). The tree grows 50-70 feet tall. The bark contains Betulin, a triterpene, and tannins. The bark is astringent, anthelmintic and useful in skin diseases. The bark layers (Bhojpatra) are used for writing manuscripts. A related species B. alnoides Buch. is found at lower elevations up to 100 feet. The essential oil from the bark has antiseptic properties. Dose: Bark powder 4 to 10 tola; churna 1-2 masha. Verse: 26.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Kusthaghna (anti-dermatosis)
  • Vranashodhana (wound healing)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.