Birch (Betula alba) is associated with purification, protection, and exorcism, and represents renewal, rebirth, and beginnings as it is the first tree after Winter to come into leaf.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Birch trees hold significant correspondences in various cultures, symbolizing new beginnings, purity, and renewal.
In the realm of magic, birch is associated with protection, purification, and banishing negative energies.
Medicinally, birch bark has been traditionally used to treat various ailments, including arthritis and skin conditions.
Birch’s versatile properties make it a valuable resource for both spiritual and practical purposes.
Birch Tree Correspondences
| Correspondence | Symbolism / Association |
|---|---|
| Element | Air |
| Astrological Sign | Aries |
| Planet | Venus |
| Deity | Thor, Freya, Cerridwen |
| Gender | Masculine |
| Associated Energy | Protection, Purification, Renewal |
| Associated Colors | White, Silver |
| Sacred Animal | Deer |
Magical Uses
To ward off the evil eye, tie a red ribbon on the branch of one of these lovely trees. To exorcise people and animals by gently striking them with the twigs of this tree. The wood was once used to make cradles as the wood would protect the young one within as well as boughs hung over the child to keep them from being enchanted by the Little People.
| Magical Use | Description |
|---|---|
| Protection | Birch is commonly associated with protection and is used in various rituals and spells for shielding and warding off negative energies. |
| Purification | Birch is used in purification rituals to cleanse spaces, objects, and individuals from negative influences and energies. |
| Renewal and Rebirth | Birch is a symbol of new beginnings, renewal, and rebirth. It can be used in rituals or spells related to personal growth and transformation. |
| Divination | Birch twigs can be used as divination tools, such as in the practice of Ogham divination, where each letter is associated with a specific tree. |
| Wishes and Manifestation | Birch is believed to have the power to make wishes come true. It can be incorporated into rituals or spells focused on manifestation and attracting desires. |
| Spiritual Connection | Birch is associated with spiritual connection and can be used to enhance meditation, intuition, and communication with higher realms. |
Birch will also protect against lightning. The branches were marked with ogham and carried for protection in small pouches as well as given to newlyweds for fertility. In Wales, the Birch is a tree of love, and wreaths are made of branches and twigs as tokens of love.
When beginning a new project or journey, call upon the powers of the Birch as it is also a tree of new beginnings and new viewpoints. Birch rods are used in protection spells and carried to protect from malicious magics (crossing/hexing) or even mundane situations/people.
Medicinal Uses
The resinous substance secreted by young shoots and leaves have acidic properties and when combined with alkalies, create a tonic laxative.
To aid with dropsy, gout, and rheumatism, make an infusion (Birch Tea). This tea is also valuable in dissolving kidney stones.
| Healing Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Pain Relief | Birch has analgesic properties and can be used topically or internally to alleviate pain and inflammation. |
| Skin Conditions | The bark of Birch contains compounds that can help in treating various skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. |
| Detoxification | Birch sap is known for its detoxifying properties, helping to cleanse the body and support liver function. |
| Anti-inflammatory | The bark and leaves of Birch possess anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for reducing inflammation in the body. |
| Urinary Health | Birch is diuretic and can promote urinary health by increasing urine production and assisting with the elimination of toxins. |
| Respiratory Support | Birch leaves and buds can be used to soothe respiratory ailments and relieve symptoms of coughs and colds. |
An infusion made with the bark can be employed for treating and the ridding of putrefaction. A decoction (boiled in water) will aid skin eruptions and dropsy by bathing the area with the birch bark water.
English 
Spanish