Birch leaf

Birch leaf (Betula alba folia)

Deciduous tree , with a very well developed lateral root system. Up to 30 m tall. The bark is white and periodically falls in thin scales. Contains betulin, the only white dye existing in nature. Birch leaves are used in traditional medicine to relieve joint pain, for kidney stones, bladder stones and urinary tract infections. They are harvested from May to July. They are dried in the sun at the beginning and then dried in the shade.

A tale of birch leaves :

In a small picturesque Rhodope village, hidden among the hills and greenery, lived an old healer named Maria. She was known for her amazing skills to cure all kinds of ailments using only the gifts of nature. People came to her for help from afar, bringing their illnesses and hopes.

On a late spring evening, when the birches were whispering softly with the winds, a young man, Ivan, arrived at Maria’s. He was suffering from severe joint pain that prevented him from working and living normally. Maria listened to him carefully, nodded her understanding and told him to follow her.

She led him to a meadow full of majestic birch trees. “Do you see these trees, Ivan?” she asked. “They are a living pharmacy. Their leaves hide a cure for your joints.” Maria taught Ivan how to gather the leaves and make a healing tea from them. After days of persistent treatment, Ivan’s joint pain lessened and he was able to work and enjoy life again.

But the story doesn’t end there. Not long after, a young woman, Elena, came to Maria suffering from pain and discomfort caused by kidney and bladder stones. Then came the old man, George, struggling with urinary tract infections. Mary again used the wisdom of the birch leaves, teaching them how to prepare various healing potions and teas. In time, their suffering receded as well, returning them to normal life.

Word of the birch leaves’ miraculous power spread throughout the village and even further afield. People began to see birch trees not only as beautiful trees, but also as guardians of health and well-being. Mary became even more respected and beloved, and the village a place of hope for many.

Thanks to the wisdom of an old healer and the healing power of birch leaves, many people found their way to better health and happiness. The story of Maria, Ivan, Elena and Georgi has remained in people’s hearts as an example of the power of nature and human wisdom intertwined.