Soviet Medical Encyclopedia

Birch Buds

Pharmacology

Also known as: Gemmae Betulae

Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.

Summary

This article describes birch buds (Gemmae Betulae), which are harvested from the birch tree (Betula alba L.) during the winter. It notes their chemical composition and their traditional use in folk medicine as aqueous or alcoholic infusions for rheumatism and aches.

Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)

BIRCH BUDS, Gemmae Betulae, from the birch plant (Betula alba L.). They are collected in winter. Composition: pyrobetulin, guaiacol, cresol, and others. Birch buds are used in folk medicine in the form of aqueous or alcoholic infusions for rheumatism and "aches."

Cite this page

“Birch Buds.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/birch-buds/