Birch tar

Birch tar is a substance derived from the dry distillation of the bark of the birch tree. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy and a waterproofing agent.

History

Birch tar has a long history of use in various cultures. It was used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes and by early European settlers as a waterproofing agent for their boats and tools. In the Middle Ages, birch tar was used as a remedy for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Production

The production of birch tar involves the dry distillation of the bark of the birch tree. This process, also known as pyrolysis, involves heating the bark in the absence of oxygen to break it down into its component parts. The resulting liquid is then collected and cooled to form birch tar.

Uses

Birch tar has a variety of uses. It is often used in the production of soap and cosmetics due to its antiseptic properties. It is also used as a waterproofing agent for leather and wood. In addition, birch tar is used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Safety

While birch tar is generally considered safe for topical use, it can cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is recommended to perform a patch test before using products containing birch tar. Ingestion of birch tar is not recommended due to the potential for toxicity.

See also

• Birch sap
• Birch beer
• Tar