Tincture of birch leaves. Birch in medicine: application, properties, recipes, contraindications Birch leaves tincture in oil

Tea from the leaves of fruit trees has both its beneficial properties and contraindications. We will reveal these properties in this publication. But the main thing is that these teas have a strong healing effect along with medicinal herbs ...

CHERRY

Cherries have a wide range of medicinal properties. Cherry leaves contain organic acids (malic and citric), tannins, coumarin, sucrose, dextrose, anthocyanins, vitamins C, B1, B2, B6, B9 (folic acid). They have an expectorant, diuretic, antiseptic, sedative and anticonvulsant effect. Their infusion is used for inflammation of the respiratory tract, for anemia, as a laxative for constipation, to reduce fermentation processes in the intestines and as a general tonic.

Cherry leaves also have diuretic and astringent properties. They are used for kidney stones, joint diseases, edema, diarrhea.

A decoction of young leaves is used for diarrhea, chronic colitis, as well as in the complex treatment of intestinal atony. Vitamin tea is brewed from spring leaves, which has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and hemostatic effects.

People with gastritis or gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer with increased acidity of gastric juice during an exacerbation of the disease should take decoctions and infusions with caution.

ARONIA BLACK FRUIT

Chokeberry (chokeberry) has hypotensive, antispasmodic, diuretic, choleretic, anti-inflammatory, capillary-strengthening properties, and also lowers blood cholesterol levels, stimulates the homeostasis system.

It is indicated for hypertension stages 1 and 2, various disorders in the blood coagulation system (hemorrhagic diathesis, capillarotoxicosis), bleeding, atherosclerosis, glomerulonephritis, rheumatism, diabetes mellitus, allergic diseases.

The pectin substances contained in the chokeberry remove radioactive substances, heavy metals, pathogenic microorganisms from the human body, eliminate spasms, and normalize the intestines. The contained complex of vitamins (a combination of vitamins P and C) helps to strengthen the walls of blood vessels, improves their elasticity and firmness.

With the formation of stones in the kidneys and urinary ducts, chokeberry leaves are capable of exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. Its haemostatic, laxative, diaphoretic actions are known. Rowan leaf tea is useful for treating kidney and liver diseases.

PEAR

Pear is rich in fructose, glucose and sucrose, organic acids, tannins, pectin, nitrogenous substances, carotene and vitamins of groups A, B, P, PP, C and B. Pear leaves contain a large amount of iodine. Infusion of pear leaves has a diuretic, fixing, disinfecting, expectorant and antipyretic effect, helps to normalize the digestive tract.

APPLE TREE

Due to its rich chemical composition, apple leaves have many beneficial properties for the body: anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, improve metabolism in the body, and are useful for edema.

Apple leaves, as well as fruits, contain phenolic compounds that strengthen the walls of blood vessels, reduce their fragility and permeability, promote the absorption of vitamin C. Infusion of apple leaves is used for colds, coughs, hoarseness, nephritis, bladder problems and kidney stones ...

PLUM

Broths and lotions from the leaves of this plant are used by healers as a remedy for wound healing.

Coumarins are found in plum fruits and leaves. These substances have the ability to prevent thrombosis and have a therapeutic effect in case of already existing thrombosis. The exerted effect promotes the expansion of the coronary vessels.

MAPLE

Maple leaves contain essential oil, betuloretinic acid, saponins, tannins, hyperoside, carotene, essential oil, vitamin C, phytoncides. Young maple leaves have a white sweetish, pleasant taste, sticky juice, rich in vitamin C, which has antiscorbutic, tonic, choleretic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, tonic, analgesic and diuretic effects.

Maple is an excellent antidepressant, it relieves stress caused by stress, reduces aggression, harmonizes, leads to the restoration of energy, enriches the body with useful substances. In addition, it is an excellent drug for crushing stones in the bladder and kidneys.

There were no contraindications for maple.

HAZEL

The leaves of hazel (hazelnut) contain sucrose, essential oil, myricitrozil, vitamins. Hazel is a laxative, so it is used for constipation. The plant has antipyretic and astringent properties. Hazel is used as a means that dilates blood vessels. This medicinal plant dissolves kidney stones, stimulates all body functions.

Tinctures and decoctions of hazel leaves can increase blood pressure.

Infusion of leaves of garden and forest strawberries have tonic, sedative, vasodilating, tonic, hematopoietic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, choleretic, anti-sclerotic, hypoglycemic properties. Inside it is taken as a general strengthening, antispasmodic agent for neurasthenia, leukemia, enuresis, polymenorrhea, laryngeal carcinomas. The infusion of leaves slows down the rhythm and increases the amplitude of heart contractions, expands blood vessels, and helps to remove salts from the body. In scientific medicine, an infusion of strawberry leaves is recommended to be taken to reject necrotic masses in decaying tumors.

In folk medicine, leaf infusion is used for gastritis, gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer, colitis, hypertension, weak heart, palpitations, kidney and liver diseases, edema, neurasthenia, insomnia, bronchial asthma, diabetes mellitus, gout, stones in the liver and kidneys, skin rashes, rickets, scrofula, hemorrhoids. Also, the infusion is taken for colds, which are accompanied by high fever and cough, with anemia, vitamin deficiencies, hepatitis, diarrhea, atonic constipation, spleen diseases.

Outwardly, an infusion of strawberry leaves is used in the form of rinsing for purulent inflammation of the mouth and throat, in the form of compresses in the treatment of weeping, bleeding long non-healing wounds.

CURRANT

Currants are a storehouse of vitamins.

The berries and leaves of this unique plant contain provitamin A, essential vitamins B and P, as well as pectin substances important for the body, useful sugars, phosphoric acid, carotene and essential oil. Currant leaves contain large amounts of magnesium, phytoncides, manganese, silver, sulfur, lead and copper.

Currant leaves are used to treat diseases of the liver, respiratory tract. Infusions of the leaves are excellent at increasing the resistance to colds. They have tonic and antiseptic properties due to the contained tannins and biologically active substances, vitamins and essential oils. The leaves of this shrub contain more vitamin C than its berries, therefore they are used for gout, gastritis, as well as for cardiovascular diseases. Traditional medicine strongly recommends using decoctions for eye diseases and various dermatitis.

Due to the high content of unique phenolic compounds and vitamin K, the use of currants is contraindicated in thrombophlebitis.

RASPBERRY

Raspberries are an invaluable treasure for health.

It contains five organic acids in its composition: salicylic, malic, citric, formic, nylon. Raspberries are also rich in tannins, pectin, nitrogenous substances, potassium and copper salts, vitamin C, carotene, essential oils.

Raspberry leaves have antipyretic, diaphoretic, antitoxic and hemostatic effects. Infusions of raspberry leaves are used for colds, acute respiratory infections, flu, sciatica, fever and neuralgia. They are also a constituent ingredient in the preparation of diaphoretic teas. Raspberry leaves are also used for atherosclerosis, diseases of the kidneys, stomach, intestines, hypertension and dysfunction of the heart, with diarrhea and bleeding. Infusion of raspberry leaves can be used to gargle the throat and mouth for various inflammatory processes.

Use with caution for nephritis and gout.

BLACKBERRY

Leaves are best harvested during the flowering of the plant. They are especially rich in tannins, leukoanthocyanides, flavanols, ascorbic acid, important amino acids and minerals. Blackberry tea improves metabolism and is an excellent remedy for diabetes.

For gastritis and stomach bleeding, a decoction of blackberry leaves is especially useful. Infusion on blackberry leaves is used in the treatment of atherosclerosis and hypertension, as a sedative for hysterical conditions. This infusion is also recommended to be used for rinsing in the treatment of tonsillitis, inflammatory diseases of the oral mucosa, in diseases of the upper respiratory tract (has an expectorant effect), in pulmonary bleeding. Also, the infusion on blackberry leaves is used for too heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, normalizes sleep, reduces anxiety, and improves health.

MINT

Mint leaves have antispasmodic, sedative, choleretic, antiseptic, analgesic, weak antihypertensive properties. It improves appetite, enhances the secretion of the digestive glands and bile secretion, reduces the tone of the smooth muscles of the intestine, as well as the biliary and urinary tract.

An infusion or tea from mint leaves is indicated for nausea of \u200b\u200bvarious origins, vomiting (including in pregnant women), gastrointestinal spasms, heartburn, diarrhea, flatulence, spasms in the gallbladder, biliary and urinary tract, cholecystitis, cholangitis, hepatitis, cholelithiasis , states of nervous excitement, insomnia, with pain in the heart, cough, to increase appetite.

Also, the infusion and tea from mint inhibit the fermentation processes in the digestive tract and, relieving spasms of the smooth muscles of the intestine, promote the free passage of food. Due to the fact that mint stimulates the biliary function of the liver and enhances the secretion of other digestive glands, its preparations (infusion or tea) will be useful for those people who have poor digestion of fatty foods.

For some people, the pungent smell of mint preparations can cause respiratory distress, bronchospasm, and pain in the heart. When treating the upper respiratory tract in children under 5 years of age, drugs containing menthol should not be used, as this can lead to reflex respiratory arrest! Peppermint should not be used by people with anxiety or insomnia. Mint should not be used for people with low blood pressure (arterial hypotension). It is not recommended for men to use it either, as it can reduce male libido. Peppermint should be discarded for people suffering from drowsiness. With infertility, mint should not be consumed either.

MELISSA

Lemon balm leaves contain essential oil, tannins, bitterness, sugar, succinic, oleanolic, ursolic acids, mineral salts. Melissa has soothing, antispasmodic, carminative, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, analgesic properties. It stimulates the appetite and secretion of digestive juices, relieves tension in the smooth muscles of the intestines. In folk medicine, lemon balm is used for nervous agitation, insomnia, hysterical seizures, with poor digestion, palpitations, vegetative-vascular dystonia, anemia, painful menstruation, dizziness, delayed menstruation, gout, as an antiemetic for pregnant women.

Despite the low content of toxins, lemon balm intake is not advisable in case of hypotension. Also, using lemon balm for treatment, one should abandon those serious activities that require a good mental reaction, maximum attention and concentration. Possible side effects of using the plant include vomiting and nausea, muscle weakness, fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, convulsions, heartburn, lethargy and loss of concentration, itching, constipation, etc.

PINE

Pine is truly a medicinal tree.

It is rich in chlorophyll, carotene, vitamin K, phytoncides, tannins, alkaloids, terpenes. It is used to prepare infusions and concentrates for the prevention and treatment of hypo- and avitaminosis. Also, infusions of pine shoots are used as a disinfectant, expectorant and diuretic.

Swollen and not yet blossoming pine buds (pine shoots) are accumulators of biologically active substances: resins, essential oils, starch, bitter and tannins, and mineral salts. Decoction and infusion of pine buds have long been treated for rickets, chronic inflammation of the bronchi, rheumatism, chronic rashes. Infusions of pine shoots help to remove stones, they have diuretic and choleretic properties and reduce inflammation in the bladder. Pine bud extracts kill the pathogenic microflora of the nasopharynx and oral cavity. The broth is used for inhalation for pulmonary diseases.

In the pagan pantheon of Slavic deities, one of the key places was occupied by Bereginya. She was considered the mother of all that exists, the patroness, protecting the living. The symbol of Bereginya, the onset of spring, the victory of life over wilting was the birch, which later acquired the status of an exclusively "Russian" tree. Birch bark - birch bark was used as paper. The wood was used to build houses.

Tar - the result of "dry" processing of birch bark, is still used in folk medicine as an anti-inflammatory and disinfectant. Birch sap was collected at the height of sap flow and was used as a diuretic for kidney diseases. Brooms were collected from birch branches, the use of which enhanced the healing effect of the Russian bathhouse. Decoctions, infusions, tinctures and tea, now undeservedly forgotten, were made from birch buds and leaves.

Medicinal properties and biochemical composition

Any herbalist or medicine man knows that birch leaves occupy a special place in folk medicine. To enhance the effect of therapy, they are often mixed with birch buds. The leaves are high in components such as:

1. tannins and flavonoids;
2. vitamin C and vitamin PP (nicotinic acid);
3. essential oils;
4. a mineral complex of zinc, magnesium, potassium, iron and calcium;
5. phytoncides, glycosides and saponins.

In a low concentration in the leaves and in a large concentration in the bark, there is a unique hepatoprotective, antioxidant, antitumor substance - betulin. The list of medicinal properties of birch leaves is due to the rich chemical composition of raw materials:

• anti-inflammatory;
• wound healing;
• blood-purifying;
• choleretic (secretory mild action);
• diuretic and diaphoretic;
• disinfecting;
• fortifying and immunostimulating;
• sedative.

If foliar therapy is combined with treatment with birch bark, sap and buds, then the healing effect is doubled, and the list of useful properties increases. By the way, it is on birches that chaga grows - a black mushroom that helps with ulcers, gastritis and eases the condition of patients with malignant tumors. Do not confuse him with tinder fungus.

Indications for use for various diseases

Due to the light astringent effect, medicines based on birch leaves are recommended for patients with gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. The active ingredients normalize the digestive processes and treat the symptoms of dysentery (dirty hands disease).

Also, the use of birch leaves is recommended by urologists, as part of complex therapy for nephrosis and nephritis. Birch leaves are used for edema, as the product quickly and effectively removes excess water from the body. For a number of dermatological diseases (lichen, furunculosis, acne, psoriasis), compresses are made from the product.

Due to the antioxidant effect, masks from crushed birch leaves are used for the face and problem areas of the skin that are most susceptible to aging (neck, hands). The remedy will certainly not stop age-related changes, but the skin condition will noticeably improve after one or two procedures. To speed up metabolism and improve blood composition, getting rid of cholesterol, they systematically consume "birch" tea.

During bronchitis, colds, diseases of the upper pulmonary tract, inhalation on a decoction of birch leaves will save you from coughing, and tea will lower body temperature due to loss of fluid during sweating.

Freshly picked, young birch leaves are used for joints. They simply cover the sore spot, after kneading it in a bowl so that the healing juice goes.

Application for specific cases + recipes

Birch leaves are used to make infusions, tinctures, decoctions, aromatic tea and even ointments and soaps with the addition of tar. To prepare birch leaf tea required:

1. 15-20 fresh leaves;
2. 200 grams of boiling water.

The casting is thoroughly washed with clean water and crushed to such a state that juice appears. Then they are placed in a container with a lid and poured with boiling water. Tea is infused for about 10 minutes. If the treatment is carried out in winter and it is not possible to get fresh leaves, then you can use 1-2 teaspoons of dried raw materials.

With the help of birch tea, they eliminate digestive problems, treat kidney and liver diseases, relieve swelling and relieve colds. For treatment, a more concentrated tea is used, which has a pronounced bitterness and a special bouquet of aroma. In order to prevent and lose weight, the content of the birch component can be slightly reduced.

When the specific taste of tea is not at all to your liking, then it is combined with fragrant thyme, rosehip and a couple of spoons of honey for sweetness. If needed tincture of birch leaves on vodkathen take:

1. 25 grams of dried birch leaves.
2. 250 grams of vodka.

If you need a little ready-made tincture, then just reduce the number of components, but observing the proportions of 1:10 (leaves: vodka). The mixture is placed in an opaque container, tightly corked with a lid or stopper and allowed to rest for 10 days. After this period has expired, the medicine can be used.

Vodka infusion on birch leaves is drunk 1-2 times a day before meals, 20-25 grams each, which is diluted in 0.5 cups of water. Inside, the agent is taken for diseases of the upper respiratory tract, weakened immunity. Tinctures are used externally for joint diseases, since the agent has an analgesic and warming effect.

For rheumatism and arthritis, compresses prepared according to a different recipe are used. This will require fresh, young leaves. They are washed with water and poured over with boiling water. Then the still warm leaves are wrapped in a soft, natural cloth (gauze, napkin) and applied to the sore spot. Keep the compress for 2-3 hours.

To prepare a health and cosmetic decoction for hair, you will need:

1. 1-2 tablespoons of dried leaves;
2. 500 grams of boiling water;
3. a pinch of thyme;
4. a pinch of chamomile;
5. a pinch of celandine;
6. a couple of nettle twigs.

Herbs and leaves are mixed into a dry fragrant mass, which is poured with boiling water and infused for about 20-30 minutes. After shampooing, it is rinsed with a medicinal broth, hair is lightly squeezed out and dried. Additionally, you do not need to rinse off the product after processing.

Baking soda dissolves the resins contained in natural raw materials. The crushed leaves are mixed with buds and soda. The mass is allowed to stand for 5-10 minutes, and then poured with boiling water. The broth is allowed to cool to room temperature. Then it is filtered and the medicine is ready for use. Drink a decoction of 0.5 cups a day before meals. The course of treatment lasts no more than one and a half weeks, followed by a weekly break. After its expiration, treatment is resumed again for another 1.5 weeks.

An alternative recipe suggests the use of oppression. To prepare the broth, you only need 500 grams of boiling water and 50-60 grams of birch leaves. They are washed, placed on the bottom of the bowl and poured with boiling water, and then closed with a lid and pressed with a load. From above, the structure is wrapped in a warm towel so that the broth cools down as slowly as possible. The remedy is infused for almost 12 hours, after which the oppression is removed, the liquid is filtered and poured into a clean jar.

Collection and harvesting of birch leaves

To make a quality medicine from birch leaves, you need to know when to collect raw materials. Although there are many types of birches, the same rules for harvesting leaves apply to all:

• Leaves must be dry during collection. The optimal time is considered to be the period from 12 to 16 hours, when the dew will dry completely by noon. If a generous rain has passed, then the collection is postponed to sunny weather.
• Harvesting is carried out in mid-May, when the birch buds are blooming, and the leaves are still young and exude a rich, fragrant dope. By the way, at the same time, a sticky coating is often formed on them - pad. From it, bees make honeydew honey, which is dangerous for themselves and unusually useful for humans.
• The collection should be carried out only from trees growing away from busy roads, dirty industries and industrial facilities. The leaves can accumulate harmful substances, which are abundant in such areas.
• Each leaf is manually detached from the branch.

After collecting, the raw materials are knocked down into small piles, which are dried either in the attic with good ventilation, or outside in the shade. Periodically they need to be agitated.

When the volume of work is large, so as not to pinch off each leaf separately, you need to grab the base of the branch near the trunk, squeeze your hand around it and hold it to the very tip. Then all the leaves will detach at once.

When collecting raw materials, try not to bare the trees entirely, this can cause irreparable harm to them, so on each birch it is worth stripping a maximum of 2-3 branches. Leaflets can be stored for an average of 2 years if they are properly packed in breathable canvas bags.

Do not leave raw materials in rooms with musty air, as mold may appear on the leaves, making them unusable.

Possible contraindications

Since birch leaves have a diuretic and choleretic effect, they are not recommended for people during exacerbations of kidney and liver diseases. Pregnant women, women during breastfeeding, children under 12 years of age are also not advised to self-medicate without a doctor's verdict with birch leaf-based products. The active components of the drug can be passed from mother to infant, and the body of a pregnant woman is characterized by an unpredictable reaction even to familiar foods. Another taboo on the use of drugs based on birch leaves will be the intolerance of its individual components of an individual nature.

Home → Healing herbs → Birch

The healing properties are due to its rich composition:

• phytoncides;
• vitamin C;
• tannins;
• a nicotinic acid;
• vegetable glycosides.

Infusion of birch leaves - medicinal use

For medicinal purposes, traditional healers most often use a saturated infusion of leaves. Essential substances in the leaves have antimicrobial action and can resist viruses. Infusions have anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of tannins. Phytoxidants (phytoncides and flavonoids) rejuvenate tissue cells by scavenging free radicals.

Young leaves of a tree are collected, which still have a sticky surface. Leaves are plucked from branches in May-June. For drying, a platform is erected, on which paper is spread, and foliage is poured on top with a layer no more than three centimeters thick. The dried leaves are packaged.

Important! When properly harvested, the leaves retain their qualities for three years. Fresh leaves are also used for healing, but infusions of dried leaves are used throughout the year, as opposed to fresh ones.

How to make an infusion of birch leaves for cholecystitis

This disease can last for years. The infusion will help relieve the condition. Relieve unpleasant symptoms. Young sticky leaves are taken for cooking. Suitable as freshly picked leaves and dried. Two teaspoons of ground leaves are added to boiling water (250 g). This mixture is infused for a day. The resulting infusion must be taken throughout the day. The course of treatment with this infusion is 1 month.

How to make an infusion of birch leaves for ulcers

Treatment is carried out with alcohol tincture of birch leaves. To do this, take:

• 50 g birch leaves (dried or fresh);
• pour them with half a liter of vodka.

Then this mixture is placed in a cool dark place for infusion. After 10 days, the tincture can be consumed. It should be taken three times a day, 25 grams added to 200 ml of water. It is advisable to consume it before eating.

Important! With this treatment regimen, the ulcer of the stomach and duodenum is healed. It also increases appetite and vitality.

Infusion of birch leaves for hair

Modern hair products offered by the trade network sometimes cannot provide a really good result. It is worth using a natural pharmacy. Birch leaves are one such remedy. It is not a fast-acting remedy, but when used systematically, it works effectively.

Important! An infusion of birch leaves is used with increased fat content and from profuse hair loss, to get rid of dandruff. With prolonged use, their structure improves, which affects the general condition.

A decoction of birch leaves has a good effect. It is cooked for 15-20 minutes. The leaves are filled with water and boiled for the specified time. After cooling, the broth is filtered off. It can be used to rinse washed hair.

Infusion of birch leaves for the face

Masks and infusions made from birch leaves have a rejuvenating, refreshing effect on the skin. With the addition of oil to the infusion of the leaves, a mask is prepared. Before preparing the mask, you need to grind the leaves in a blender:

Read on! On the medicinal properties of birch tar and its contraindications. And how to use it for treatment.

• for infusion, take 1 spoonful of pre-ground leaves;
• pour a quarter cup of boiling water;
• insist for about three hours;
• mix ready infusion with butter (1 tbsp. l.);
• apply on face skin for half an hour;
• remove with a slightly damp cloth.

Contrasting compresses from infusion of leaves have a rejuvenating effect. For infusion you need 1 tbsp. l. leaves ground in a blender, poured with a glass of hot boiled water. After cooling it can be used. Moisten a terry towel alternately in hot and cold infusion. This method helps to improve blood circulation and makes the skin soft and supple.

Infusion of birch leaves for weight loss

To lose weight, a tincture of a mixture of birch leaves, dioecious nettle, field violet, and parsley root is used. All components for 1 tbsp. l. 500 ml of boiling water are poured and infused. Drink 3 times a day, 0.5 cups.

Infusion of birch leaves during pregnancy

The diuretic effect of birch leaves is used as an aid for edema in pregnant women. An infusion of birch leaves is prepared for edema from 1 tablespoon of chopped leaves and 250 g of boiled hot water. After the mixture is infused for half an hour and strained, you can drink it three times a day for 50-70 g.

Important! This tincture is also used as an anti-inflammatory agent and to regulate water-salt metabolism in the body.

Infusion of birch leaves for feet

The use of birch leaves in the treatment of foot diseases has shown a positive result, therefore this recipe is often used. The best effect can be achieved with an integrated approach to treatment. Inside, a decoction is taken, and in the form of a poultice, it is applied to the legs.

The broth is prepared from 10 g of leaves, filled with half a liter of warm water, and boiled for 10 minutes. After the broth is removed from the stove, it cools down for half an hour, and is filtered. You need to take it three times a day with meals.

Important! Read our article on the healing properties of birch bark.

Poultices can be done in several ways.

1. Sew bags from the fabric that reach the knee. Fill them with fresh green birch leaves. Lower your legs into the bags. After a while, the warmth from the feet will create a greenhouse effect. The leaves will begin to secrete essential substances, which, penetrating into the pores of the skin, will begin to have a healing effect.

1. Steam a birch broom, tear off the still warm leaves and apply to the sore joint. There should be at least three such layers. Then cover it with cling film or a plastic bag, and then wrap it with a terry towel. You can cover yourself with a blanket. After forty minutes, the compress can be removed. This procedure can be done a couple of times a week.

If you are concerned about rheumatic joint pain, a more intensive course of treatment is recommended. Compresses should be applied to sore joints in the form of steamed and mashed birch leaves. After seven days of use, the pain will disappear due to the healing effect of birch leaves.

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Birch leaf tincture will help keep you healthy

This white healer carries many beneficial properties, so it has become a folk remedy for many diseases. Its casting is of particular importance in folk medicine, as it is rich in vitamins and valuable medicinal substances. Therefore, the tincture using birch leaves has become so popular among the people.

Birch is a unique tree that has always been considered the tree of life in Russia. And not without reason, because thanks to its wonderful properties, you can be cured of a whole list of diseases. All of its components are widely used in folk medicine.

One of the important medicinal components are birch leaves. They look like rounded rhomboids bordered by teeth. They are quite large - from 6 to 7 cm in length. If you want to protect yourself from diseases, you need to go to collect young leaves on warm May days.

Birch leaves contain many useful substances. They contain essential oils, acids, vitamins C, E, PP, tannins, carotene, phytoncides and many others. Therefore, this component of birch is very valuable for health. Next, you will learn recipes for infusions, how to use them, and much more.

Recipes

It should be noted that both dried and fresh leaves can be used to prepare infusions. They do not lose their beneficial properties even when dried. But you also need to dry them correctly. To do this, they must be distributed on paper sheets and placed in a cool and dark place with good ventilation. In order for the leaves to dry evenly, they need to be stirred periodically.

It is very important that they dry completely, otherwise there is a threat of mold infestation. With proper preparation, the leaves will be stored for 2 years and will be most useful in preparing infusions.

Recipe number 1

Ingredients:

Cooking method

1. If using fresh leaves, rinse thoroughly.
2. Then they need to be crushed and filled with boiling water.
3. The tool should be infused for 4 hours, then you need to remove the leaves from the infusion and leave it for another 6 hours.
4. Finally, you need to strain the liquid and then it will be ready for use.

Recipe number 2

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. tablespoons of chopped birch leaves;
• 0.5 liters of water.

Preparation

1. This infusion is prepared just before use.
2. It is necessary to pour boiling water over the ingredient and leave for an hour.

You can use a thermos for cooking.

Recipe number 3

Ingredients:

• Dried birch leaves 100 g;
• 1 liter of warm boiled water.

Preparation

1. The green component must be poured with warm water and insisted for a day.

Such an infusion must be prepared daily, since with long storage it loses its medicinal properties. To enhance the healing effect, birch leaves are often mixed with herbs. For example, for cystitis, you can mix them with licorice root, corn silk, and bearberry leaves. After 6 hours of infusion in cold water, the medicine can be safely used.

Properties

The infusion is very beneficial for the body, since birch leaves have the following properties:

• choleretic;
• diuretics;
• bactericidal;
• anti-inflammatory;
• antiseptic;
• antispasmodic.

Application

This drug should be used by people who are worried about:

• giardiasis;
• cholecystitis;
• kidney disease;
• avitaminosis;
• atherosclerosis.

The tool will help in the treatment of the gastrointestinal tract, bronchitis, stomach ulcers, various viral diseases. The healing properties of the infusion will help with neuroses, chronic stress. They are especially useful for colds, as they raise immunity well. If the medicine is used externally, then it will be useful in the treatment of such diseases:

• Psoriasis;
• Eczema;
• Mastitis;
• Sepsis;
• Furunculosis.

Birch potion can improve blood circulation, destroy blood clots in blood vessels, reduce blood pressure and improve microcirculation. The infusion also has a positive effect on metabolism, improves the function of the female genital organs and helps with bruises and burns.

Contraindications

Despite the fact that this drug is medicinal, there are contraindications to it. It should not be taken if a person has an individual intolerance to birch sap, buds, pollen or leaves. Do not use medications for glomerulonephritis.

It is also better not to treat children under the age of two with these remedies. It may be dangerous. If you cook and use birch infusion correctly, it will surely help you cope with any disease!

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Birch tincture

Since ancient times, birch has been considered a medicinal tree. Various medicinal raw materials are obtained from birch, which are beneficial in the treatment of many diseases. Useful soap is made from birch tar, infusions and tinctures are made from leaves and buds.

Birch tincture differs from birch tincture in the content of the alcoholic part. Decoctions and infusions are prepared with vegetable raw materials and water, tinctures - with alcohol (various concentrations).

Buds, leaves, bark and catkins (flowers) are most often used as medicinal raw materials obtained from birch. Birch contains a large amount of useful trace elements and minerals, is rich in vitamin C and B vitamins. The main properties of birch used in medicine are anti-inflammatory, choleretic and diuretic.

Indications for use

For inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis, gastroduodenitis and enteritis, the tincture is taken orally, one teaspoonful three times a day. As a diuretic, it is taken 30 drops in the morning on an empty stomach.

In the treatment of gallstone disease, birch tincture is taken after each meal, 10-15 drops. When taken orally, the components of the tincture act at the site of inflammation. Reception should be carried out in courses, together with taking medications.

Cooking method.

To prepare birch tincture, you need birch buds, or birch leaves, together with bark and catkins. Birch bud tincture is mainly used internally.

It is necessary to grind the birch buds (the buds are collected 5-7 days after their appearance) and pour 40% vodka, or 95% alcohol, previously diluted with water, The ratio is about 1: 5 (1 part of the buds, 5 parts of vodka). After 7-10 days, the tincture is ready for use. It is better to use dark glass containers for storage.

Birch tincture on leaves and bark is often applied externally, and before use it is pre-diluted with clean water. This solution can be used to wipe cuts, abrasions and ulcers.

If the tincture is very diluted, it can be used as a tonic for the face (suitable for people with oily skin prone to acne). For cooking, you need to collect leaves, earrings and bark. If possible, grind the raw materials and immediately pour 70% alcohol. Insist for 5-7 days, strain and store in a cool, dark place in a glass container.

To store any tinctures, due to the alcohol content in them, you cannot use plastic containers. Plastic under the influence of aggressive alcoholic environment is destroyed.

Birch tincture can be prepared on the basis of birch tar. To do this, you need to purchase tar at the pharmacy and add to the vodka (for 100 ml of vodka, half a teaspoon of tar). This tincture is taken orally, 1-5 drops 2 times a day after meals. Tar has a healing and antiseptic effect on ulcers and erosion in peptic ulcer disease. The tincture can also be applied pointwise to inflammatory skin elements (acne, boils).

When making homemade soap, you can add a few drops of birch tincture on tar. This bactericidal soap is perfect for washing feet, as a prophylaxis for fungal infections of the skin and nails.

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The benefits and preparation of a decoction of birch leaves

Birch is rightfully considered a medicinal and useful tree, which, if used correctly, heals a large number of diseases. And this is not surprising, because almost all the components of this tree are endowed with a mass of useful properties that the body needs during the treatment of a particular disease. A decoction based on birch leaves and buds, prescribed by a doctor, leads to an early improvement in health, cleanses the body and saturates it with a large amount of vitamins and healing elements. As a result, after a month of treatment, the patient will feel relief and pain relief.

Decoction rules

The use of the broth is allowed only after the appointment of the attending physician, who will take into account the patient's state of health, contraindications and the form of the disease. Important: doctors do not recommend self-medication with folk recipes, since improper use leads to a violation of the patient's health and well-being.

Decoctions based on birch buds and leaves are prepared throughout the year. For this, you can use fresh parts of birch, dried and pharmacy. If you decide to harvest the buds and leaves of this tree yourself, you should take into account the rules and tips for home drying, since improper harvesting leads to the loss of the useful properties of the tree.

You can take a decoction based on birch buds and leaves for children and adults. Depending on the age of the patient, the attending physician prescribes a dosage that should be followed as the decoctions are prepared at home. Of course, for young children and adolescents, the dose of medicinal raw materials will be much less.

What diseases does a decoction based on birch buds and leaves treat? In fact, the use of this drug is quite large-scale - the remedy heals the joints, bones, internal organs, hair and other diseases of the human body. In each individual case, the broth is prescribed according to a specific recipe. Important: the use of this drug is carried out along with complex treatment with medicines - the only exceptions are diseases of the oral cavity and skin inflammation. Other types of diseases are treated only under medical supervision.

Description of the tree

White birch is a deciduous tree with a height of at least 25 meters. This tree is known to everyone for its bark - white, smooth, with black spots and minor cracks. The stems of young branches are endowed with warts. The base of the branches is red-brown.

Birch leaves are alternate, leathery, triangular-ovate, light green in color. The plant blooms from April to the end of May. At this time, flowers appear on the birch branches, which are female and male earrings. Birch fruits fully ripen and become ready for harvest from August. The tree propagates by seeds and vegetatively.

Where does birch grow?

This tree is found in the South and North Caucasus, Siberia, central Russia, and the Urals. You can meet a tree in parks, alleys, along houses and roads, in mixed forests. Birch is found in fields and forest edges.

Important: birch is capable of forming clean stands, which are called birch forests. They often grow on the site of clear-cut and burned-down forests. One by one, there are self-planted seedlings that have not reached “mature age.

What does a decoction based on birch buds and leaves contain?

A properly prepared decoction from parts of birch has a rich chemical composition. The remedy contains:

• vitamin C;
• tannins;
• triterpene alcohol;
• phenols;
• phytoncides;
• flavonoids.

Along with this, it is worth noting that the beneficial properties of decoctions are also quite strong:

• diuretic;
• choleretic;
• pain reliever;
• anti-inflammatory;
• wound healing;
• calming;
• pain reliever.

The use of this medicinal composition has significant benefits for the body, therefore, it is worth using a decoction based on birch leaves and buds according to the strict recommendation of a doctor - only then can a positive treatment result be achieved.

Birch leaves

The leaf-based decoction is endowed with:

• essential oils;
• flavonoids;
• ascorbic acid;
• saponins;
• coumarins;
• trace elements (potassium, manganese, zinc);
• tannins.

The leaves are capable of treating coughs, stomach ulcers, vitamin deficiency, bladder diseases, joints and bones. The decoction, as a topical application, heals ulcers, fresh purulent wounds, skin inflammation and allergic reactions.

The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. A specialist consultation is required!

From time immemorial birch tree It was rightfully considered the tree of life, since it helped to maintain and improve health. Today, traditional medicine widely uses various components of this plant in its effective recipes. Next, we will consider the beneficial properties of birch as a whole, and each of its components separately. These recipes will help you cope with many ailments and their symptoms.

Birch treatment

For medicinal purposes, the following birch raw materials are used:

• kidneys;
• leaves;
• tar;
• birch bark (bark);
• chaga (the so-called birch mushroom);
• activated carbon;
• earrings (inflorescences).

The collection of buds is carried out from the beginning of February to the end of April, when they differ in resinousness. At the same time, it is important to have time to prepare raw materials before they bloom. After drying the raw materials, carried out in a dark place at temperatures up to 30 degrees, the kidneys should be threshed. Correctly harvested and harvested birch buds have a tart resinous taste and a balsamic smell that intensifies when rubbed.

Birch leaves are harvested in May (at this time, birch gives flowering, so the leaves have a sticky structure and emit a fragrant aroma). Leaves are dried outdoors, but in the shade. Both buds and leaves are stored in a sealed glass or cardboard container (always in a dry room) for two years.

Birch sap should be collected and harvested during the period of sap flow. In order to exclude the death of the tree and not cause irreparable harm to it, the sap is collected only in places where it is planned to cut down birches. It is also not advisable to collect sap from young trees.

The benefits of birch

Birch contains an organic dye betulin, which contains a large amount of silver ions, due to which drugs from it have an excellent antimicrobial effect.

Betulin, penetrating the skin into the bloodstream, affects the body as follows:

• eliminates joint pain;
• relieves heaviness in the legs;
• increases resistance to the development of cancer;
• significantly improves liver function.

From time immemorial, fresh birch sap has been used to treat colds and skin diseases. Birch decoctions, infusions and drinks strengthen the immune system.

Scientists have long proven the effect of birch on human health. In the course of research, it was found that people living near birch groves almost never get sick with colds, since volatile phytoncides have antiviral, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects.

Lovers of bath procedures will appreciate the properties of birch. The fact is that under the influence of hot air, its leaves secrete healing phytoncides, perfectly sterilizing the air and filling it with antiseptics.

Birch properties

Traditional medicine effectively uses various parts of birch to treat all kinds of diseases.

Birch leaves and buds

Infusions and decoctions from buds and leaves have the following properties:

• choleretic;
• fortifying;
• diuretic;
• expectorant;
• bactericidal;
• disinfection;
• antiseptic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• antiscorbutic.

Birch buds and leaves are used in the treatment of such diseases:

• dysfunction of the bladder;
• atherosclerosis;
• rheumatism;
• edema of cardiac etiology;
• eczema;
• kidney inflammation ;
• bronchitis;
• bedsores;
• skin diseases;
• anemia;
• neurosis;
• dysentery;

Birch juice

Birch tree (or birch sap) has the following properties:

• anthelmintic;
• diuretic;
• antineoplastic;
• fortifying;
• stimulating.

Drinking birch sap will help reduce the manifestations of the following conditions and diseases:

• general weakness;
• chronic fatigue;
• avitaminosis;
• blood diseases;
• pneumonia;
• ulcer;
• low acidity;
• rheumatism;
• arthritis;
• eczema;
• gout;

In addition, birch sap:
1. Increases the body's resistance to various colds, infectious, allergic diseases.
2. Regulates metabolism.

Birch bark

Birch bark has wound healing and disinfecting properties.

Also when ingested tar:

• normalizes blood pressure;
• regulates metabolic processes;
• strengthens the heart muscle.

Activated carbon

The preparation carbolene is made from birch coal, which is used in the following conditions:

• atherosclerosis;
• poisoning, accompanied by intoxication;
• gastrointestinal diseases;
• allergies;
• increased acidity.

Activated carbon removes excess cholesterol, is used in the prevention of cancer, as well as diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Birch earrings

There are "male" and "female" earrings. The first ones are located in two or three pieces side by side, while the second ones grow separately and differ in a fine structure. For medicinal purposes, only men's earrings are used.

Birch inflorescences are used in the treatment of:

• tuberculosis;
• eczema;
• boils;
• anemia.

The use of tinctures from birch earrings helps to eliminate:

• fatigue;
• low hemoglobin levels.

Application of birch

In folk medicine, birch is used as decoctions, infusions, tinctures, extracts and oils.

Decoction

A decoction of birch buds is taken orally as a diuretic and choleretic agent, while externally - as a lotion that helps heal abscesses and cuts. A hot bath from a decoction of birch buds is indicated for patients with acute and chronic eczema.

A decoction of birch leaves is used to strengthen and improve hair growth.

Tea with the addition of birch buds is an excellent expectorant and disinfectant indicated in the treatment of influenza, bronchitis and ARVI.

Infusion

An infusion of birch buds, as well as leaves, has the following effect on the body:

• increases urination up to 2.5 liters per day;
• eliminates edema;
• reduces shortness of breath;
• reduces protein content in urine.

Infusion of birch buds is mainly used for the following pathologies:

• inflammatory process localized in the liver;
• gastritis;
• stomach ulcer;
• duodenal ulcer;
• skin diseases;
• acute rheumatism.

In addition, baths and tampons made from a 20% infusion of buds or birch leaves are used to treat cervical erosion.

Tincture

Tincture of birch buds, which has antimicrobial effect, is used in the treatment of:

• furunculosis;
• abscesses;

Tincture of birch buds, aged in 90% alcohol (the ratio of buds and alcohol 1: 5, respectively), is externally used as rubbing and compresses for such diseases:

• arthritis;
• radiculitis;
• poorly healing ulcers;
• postoperative purulent wounds;
• abrasions;
• bedsores.

Birch extract

Obtained from the buds, bark and leaves of white birch. The extract from buds and birch leaves has phytoncidal properties, and therefore is used as an anti-inflammatory and vitaminizing agent.

Also, birch bark extract contains such important trace elements:

• betulin (helps burn calories quickly)
• mineral salts;
• various astringents;
• useful resins.

Birch extract is widely used in cosmetology, being included in skin and hair care products.

Birch oil

Essential birch oil obtained from foliage and buds is rich in the following elements:

• resin;
• a nicotinic acid;
• vitamin C;
• flavonoids;
• carotene;
• various saponins;
• tannins.

Birch essential oil has the following properties:

• antiseptic;
• pain reliever;
• blood-purifying;
• diuretic;
• astringent;
• tonic;
• choleretic;
• disinfectant.

It should be mentioned that birch essential oil soothes the nervous system, making you feel better and uplifting.

But do not forget that birch essential oil is a potent agent that can irritate sensitive skin, so it must be used with extreme caution.

Birch pollen

Birch pollen is a ready-made concentrate of natural vitamins, microelements, and phytoncides, which have a beneficial effect on the human body, ensuring its full work.

Birch pollen is especially useful for patients with cancer, as it normalizes all body functions by stimulating them. Pollen has a positive effect on blood as well.

By its properties, birch pollen is similar to adaptogenic plants (for example, with ginseng, which increases the body's resistance to various adverse environmental factors and tones it up).

The daily dose of pollen is 3 g, and is consumed in 2 - 3 doses, while the course of treatment is 2 months, after which a two-week break is taken.

Birch pollen allergen

Despite its unique medicinal properties, birch pollen can trigger hay fever in people with allergies. For this reason, the use of pollen should be approached with extreme caution, having previously consulted with a doctor about the doses, duration of the course and the characteristics of the diet.

So, many people who are sensitive to birch pollen, allergies are accompanied not only by sneezing and nasal congestion, but also food intolerance to certain vegetables and fruits containing proteins related to the category of "main birch allergen".

These allergens include:

• cherry;
• potatoes.

Therefore, in order to avoid allergic reactions, it is not recommended to eat such foods raw - they should be heat treated, which will help to modify the structure of allergenic proteins.

Contraindications for birch medicinal preparations

1. Decoctions and alcoholic tinctures from both birch buds and leaves are contraindicated in diagnosed functional renal failure due to possible irritation of the parenchyma.

2. In acute, as well as chronic glomerulonephritis, preparations containing birch buds cannot be used.

3. Birch sap should not be consumed by people who are allergic to birch pollen.

4. Chaga is contraindicated in patients suffering from chronic colitis and dysentery, since chaga in some cases retains fluid in the body.

In addition, it is undesirable to combine the intake of chaga with the use of the following products:

• vitamins A and B;
• smoked meats;
• spicy dishes;
• seasonings;
• sugar;
• confectionery;
• canned products;
• animal fats;
• meat products;
• alcohol.

Together with chaga, you cannot receive intravenous glucose, as well as injections of penicillin, which is an antagonist of this drug.

5. Tar should not be taken for such diseases and conditions:

• acute and chronic skin inflammation;
• acute eczema;
• dermatitis;
• exudative psoriasis;
• furunculosis;
• acne;
• kidney disease;

Important! Treatment of children under the age of two with any herbal preparations is dangerous. Therefore, before using any medicinal plant, you must consult a doctor.

Birch recipes

Birch Buds Recipes

Tincture for stomach ulcers
Birch buds (50 g) are poured with 500 ml of alcohol, infused in a dark place for three weeks, while the tincture is periodically shaken. After the specified time, the composition is filtered, and 20 drops are taken three times a day, about 20 minutes before a meal.

Tincture for colds (flu)
Raw materials in the amount of 5 tbsp. 500 ml of vodka is kneaded and poured, after which it is infused in a dark place for 40 days (the tincture is periodically shaken). Next, the composition is filtered, 2 tbsp is added to it. honey. The tincture is thoroughly mixed and taken in 1 tbsp. twice a day, 40 minutes before meals.

Tincture for bronchitis, migraine, insomnia
Dry crushed birch buds (20 g) are poured with 100 ml of alcohol, after which they are infused in a dark place for three weeks, while periodically shaking. The tincture is filtered, the rest is wrung out. The remedy is taken in 30 drops, which are diluted in a tablespoon of boiled water, three times a day, 20 minutes before meals.

Decoction for liver disease
10 g of birch buds are poured with a glass of water and boiled for 15 minutes, after which the broth is removed from the heat, cooled and filtered through cheesecloth. Accepted for 1 tbsp. four times a day.

Birch Leaves Recipes

Infusion for nephritis, neuroses, diathesis
Birch leaves are crushed, washed with cold boiled water. Further, the raw material is poured with boiled water, the temperature of which should be 40 - 50 degrees. Leaves and water are taken in a ratio of 1:10, respectively. It is infused for 4 hours, after which the water is drained, the leaves are squeezed out, and the infusion itself is infused for another 6 hours, after which the sediment should be removed. Taken half a glass three times a day.

Infusion for vitamin deficiency and long-term non-healing wounds
Birch leaves (2 tablespoons) are poured with a glass of boiling water, infused for 4 days, after which they are squeezed out and filtered. The broth is taken 100 ml three times a day before meals.

Tincture for heart disease, bedsores and burns
Fresh birch leaves (2 tablespoons) are poured with 200 ml of 70 percent alcohol, infused for a week and filtered. A tincture of 30 drops is used twice a day. Also, the tincture can be applied externally, as compresses on the joints.

Birch sap recipes

In the course of treatment and prevention of diseases, birch sap must be consumed fresh, while it should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than two days. It is taken 250 ml three times a day, half an hour before meals. The course of treatment is three weeks.

For skin diseases, as well as conditions accompanied by a rise in temperature, it is recommended to drink 3 glasses of juice per day.

Infusion for sore throat
Birch bark (300 g) is crushed and 500 ml of boiling water is poured, leaving to infuse for an hour, after which the infusion is filtered and taken in 150-200 ml three times a day.

High pressure decoction
Chopped chaga (1 tsp) is mixed with 1 tsp. mistletoe herbs, after which it is brewed in 250 ml of boiling water and brought to a boil. Then the broth is removed from the heat and infused for 3 hours, squeezed out and drunk 90 ml three times a day. The course of treatment is 2 - 3 weeks.

Tar recipes

Psoriasis ointment
To prepare this remedy, you will need the following components:

• birch tar - 1 part;
• fish oil - 1 part;
• butter - 1 part;
• copper sulfate - 0.5 part.

The ingredients are mixed until a viscous mixture (ointment) is obtained. The components are combined over low heat (the ointment is boiled for 5 minutes). Stored in a cool and dark place. The ointment is applied to the affected area once a day.

Infusion for atherosclerosis
Tar (1 tsp) is stirred in 250 ml of warm natural milk. One glass is taken three times a day 60 minutes before meals, for one and a half months. 4 courses of treatment are carried out per year, between which a break of one month is indicated.

Recipe with birch earrings

Tincture for heart disease
The glass container is filled with birch inflorescences by two-thirds, after which vodka is poured into the vessel to the brim. It is infused for 21 days (always in a dark place and at room temperature). You can skip the tincture. The product tastes pleasant, has a scent of tree resin. The dose is determined on an individual basis, and can vary from 20 drops up to 1 tsp. It is taken, diluted with a small amount of water, three times a day, half an hour before meals. The course of treatment is 3-4 weeks (sometimes two months). Frequency - no more than twice a year. The shelf life of the tincture is one year.

Recipes with birch leaves - video

Most drugs that only a pharmacist could previously prepare are already available as finished dosage forms. Factory candles have long replaced suppositories rolled out by the pharmacist's hand, and pills have ousted powders from pharmacy counters. But there are also dosage forms that are not yet subject to industrial production.

Herbal medicine: effectiveness without question

It is difficult to imagine modern medicine without treatment with medicinal herbs. The roots of herbal medicine go back to the distant past - historians claim that reliable evidence of the medicinal use of herbs has been found as early as the 6th century BC. Herbal medicine has stood the test of time and entered the high-tech XXI century with dignity. The effectiveness of herbal treatments has been proven in large clinical studies and is beyond question.

Herbal medicines, which are prepared ex tempore - as needed - have another undeniable advantage. They are completely devoid of excipients, preservatives, dyes and flavors. We already eat and drink these not very useful substances for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, so it is important that medicines contain only active components, without additional "husk".

Unlike many other extemporal dosage forms, it is not only a pharmacist burdened with pharmaceutical education that can boil or infuse a medicine. To become involved in pharmacy wisdom, it is enough to be able to read: detailed instructions usually decorate the pharmacy packaging with medicinal raw materials.

Herbal treatment can be indicated for a wide variety of ailments, and sometimes it is simply irreplaceable. So, when coughing, water extracts from medicinal raw materials pursue two goals at once. The first, of course, is a mucolytic or antitussive effect. Legends and treatises have already been written about the effectiveness of the use of coltsfoot, marshmallow and licorice. By the way, often with bronchitis and tracheitis, synthetic drugs are completely helpless in comparison with herbal remedies.

The second task, which is successfully performed by infusions and decoctions when coughing, is the dilution of thick tracheobronchial secretions, provided by regular warm drinking. Remember that both pediatricians and therapists insist on using a large amount of warm teas, compotes and other drinks when coughing. And warm infusions and decoctions perfectly cope with this appointment.

Infusions and decoctions work great for various diseases of the stomach, nervous system, skin diseases and many other ailments.

Infusion? Or a decoction?

Infusion and decoction are different dosage forms, each of which has its own nuances in its manufacture. Pharmaceutical subtleties are designed not to complicate the creative task, but to allow the active substances to be extracted from the plant as efficiently as possible and to maintain their activity during the heat treatment.

The word "infusion" itself suggests that the dosage form is prepared by infusion. Infusions are usually prepared from flowers, herbs, leaves, i.e. those plant organs from which it is not difficult to extract the active substances. An exception is the valerian rhizome, which is also insisted.

Usually, both infusions and decoctions are prepared in a ratio of 1:10, i.e. for 1 part of medicinal raw materials take 10 parts of water at room temperature. The resulting "semi-finished product" is heated in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes and then infused at room temperature for 45 minutes. After that, the infusion is filtered, the residue is squeezed out and the medicine is ready.

Important:
Infusions of essential oil plants - rhizomes with valerian roots, mint and sage leaves and chamomile flowers - are prepared under a tightly closed lid to preserve the essential oils.

To extract useful substances from the bark, roots, rhizomes and fruits, they need to be boiled. For this, the raw material, filled with water at room temperature, is placed in a boiling water bath and boiled for 30 minutes, after which it is infused for another 10 minutes. Then the broth is filtered, without fail squeezing out the dry residue.

The shelf life of the infusion or decoction does not exceed 2 days. About how and, we talked about earlier.

Important:
1. The bark of oak, cinquefoil rhizomes, burnet should not be insisted in metal dishes because of the likelihood of interaction of tannins with metals.

2. The decoction of senna leaves is completely cooled before straining. Thanks to this, the resinous substances contained in senna, which can cause side effects, do not pass into the extract.

3. A decoction of licorice root is prepared with the addition of baking soda at the rate of 1 gram per 10 grams of raw material. Soda helps to extract active substances.

In conclusion, I would like to add a few tips. Firstly, you should not buy plant raw materials from your hands: at the market or from the affectionate old women who comfortably sit at the entrance to the metro. You have no idea where, when, or even what the homegrown herbalists gathered, how they dried their "harvest" and in what conditions they stored them. This means that extracts from such "medicinal plants" may contain an unpredictable set of active substances.

Even picking herbs with your own hands, you run the risk of bringing home not a medicinal plant, but its counterpart, like two drops of water similar to the original. Therefore, real, high-quality raw materials, standardized and safe, can only be found in pharmacies. This is an axiom.

And secondly, when starting to be treated with herbs, do not stop halfway. Take a full, and not "half" course of herbal medicine, only then you can fully feel how wisely nature has taken care of us.

Marina Pozdeeva

Photo thinkstockphotos.com