Tree Ogham - Silver Birch
by Celtwitch
Silver Birch - Betula Alba
Downy Birch - Betula Pubescens
The Celtic Tree month of the Birch starts on December 24th and continues until January 20th and is also known by other names, these include Beithe, Bereza, Berke and Beth.
The birch tree is found throughout Europe and is widespread in Scotland.
It's very fast growing and is known as a pioneer tree. This is because, after the deforestation caused by the last Ice Age, the birch was the first to colonise barren areas of land.
The silver birch can reach heights of up to 30 metres whilst the downy birch is shorter at 25 metres.
The leaves drop at the end of October/beginning of November with the new leaves emerging in April.
In Celtic lore, the birch came to symbolise purification and renewal, and during Samhain, bundles of birch twigs would be used to drive out the spirits of the old year. This became known as "beating the bounds" in local parishes.
The birch was (and is) sacred to the Druids and is particularly associated with the Goddess.
Witches besoms have been traditionally made with birch twigs and are usually used for cleansing the circle of psychic debris.
In Britain the Birch is often used for may-poles in many traditional dances of the May during the same season the twigs of the birch are used for kindling the Beltane fires.
The "witches broom" in the photo to the left is a dense growth of tangled twigs, formed when fungi get into the tree. This fungi can be carried by either mites or water and air currents.
Folklore and herbalism credit different parts of the birch with a variety of medicinal properties. The leaves are diuretic and antiseptic, and an effective remedy for cystitis and other urinary tract infections. They were also used to dissolve kidney stones and relieve rheumatism and gout. The sap (as wine or cordial) similarly prevents kidney and bladder stones, treats rheumatism, and can be used to treat skin complaints. The bark is said to ease muscle pain if applied externally.
Birch can be used for wands, or as twiggy bits in spells where protection, purification, blessings, health, or new beginnings are called for, along with associated herbs, runes, ogham, crystals etc.
