Birch bark

What is birch bark?

Birch bark is the outer layer of the birch, a deciduous tree that is widespread in Europe, Asia and North America. The bark is usually white or silvery and can be easily peeled off in strips. Birch is one of the oldest medicinal plants known to mankind and was already valued by the Celts, Germanic tribes and Native Americans. The bark mainly contains betulin and betulinic acid, two substances that can have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antitumoral effects. The bark also contains flavonoids, tannins, resins and essential oils, which can have further positive effects on health.

What are the benefits of birch bark for dogs?

Birch bark can be used for various ailments in dogs, for example

• Skin problems such as eczema, wounds, abscesses or fungal infections. The bark can be applied as a poultice or ointment to the affected areas and has a healing and disinfecting effect.
• Joint problems such as arthritis, rheumatism or gout. The bark can be administered as a tea or tincture and has an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effect.
• Urinary tract problems such as cystitis, kidney stones or edema. The bark can be administered as a tea or tincture and has a diuretic and flushing effect.
• Metabolic problems such as diabetes, obesity or fatty liver. The bark can be administered as a tea or tincture and has a blood sugar-lowering and fat-burning effect.

What are the disadvantages of birch bark for dogs?

Birch bark is not suitable for all dogs and can also have some disadvantages, for example

• Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching or difficulty breathing. Some dogs may be allergic to birch bark or its ingredients and should therefore avoid it.
• Gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Some dogs cannot tolerate birch bark well and should therefore only be given it in small quantities or diluted.
• Interactions with medication such as blood thinners, diuretics or insulin. Some dogs take medication that can interact with birch bark and increase or weaken its effect. Therefore, a veterinarian should always be consulted before using birch bark.
• Confusion with birch sugar (xylitol). Birch sugar is a sugar substitute obtained from birch bark and is healthy for humans. However, it is highly toxic for dogs and even small amounts can lead to life-threatening hypoglycemia. Therefore, you should always make sure that you can distinguish birch bark from birch sugar and do not feed any products containing xylitol to dogs.