Wegas

Birch

B. papyrifera

Parts used medicinally

Sap, leaves, inner bark.

Medical Uses

Tea from leaves is a spring tonic, and it can be chewed and applied to wasp stings.

Inner bark for asthma, sore throat, menstrual pain, skin.

Chaga, a type of mushroom that grows on birch trees, contains high levels of antioxidants.

Climate Change Vulnerability

Unpredictable.

The eastern boreal forest may be able to continue to support the birch; but its future remains uncertain.

Factors involved

Ability to migrate is limited; decrease in summer precipitation, increase in forest fires, loss of habitat to more adaptable species like Aspen; increasing extreme weather (storms, winds) contribute to blow downs to inadequate stands left after logging.