Evidence supporting the use of: Birch (unspecified)
For the health condition: Hair Care (general)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Birch (Betula species) has a history of traditional use in hair care, particularly in European and Russian folk medicine. Birch leaf extracts and birch tar have been used as ingredients in hair rinses, shampoos, and scalp treatments. Traditional claims include promoting hair growth, improving scalp health, and reducing dandruff. These uses are largely based on the astringent, mildly antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties attributed to birch leaves and bark. Folk remedies often suggest rinsing the hair with birch leaf infusions to strengthen hair and add shine.
However, there is a lack of robust scientific studies directly validating birch’s efficacy for general hair care or for specific concerns such as hair loss or dandruff. The available evidence is mostly anecdotal or based on the known properties of birch constituents, such as flavonoids and saponins, which may support scalp health in a general sense. Some commercial hair care products include birch extract, leveraging its traditional reputation, but clinical trials are lacking. Overall, while birch’s use in hair care is well-rooted in tradition, scientific support is minimal, and evidence is considered weak to moderate (2/5).
More about Birch (unspecified)
More about Hair Care (general)
Other ingredients used for Hair Care (general)
alfalfaashwagandha
blackberry
collagen
gelatin
licorice root
milk
moringa
mustard seed
omega-3 fatty acids
orange
silicon
keratin
spirulina
vegetable blend (proprietary)
vitamin A
vitamin B12
vitamin B6
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin E
zinc
bee pollen
eucalyptus
aster root
acacia
Achyranthes
Argan nut oil
Bee Propolis
Camellia sinensis
Clerodendrum trichotomum
Celosia
Chondrus
Zucchini
Other health conditions supported by Birch (unspecified)
AbrasionsAbscesses
Acne
Arthritis
Athlete's Foot
Backache
Bladder Infection
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cellulite
Cuts
Dandruff
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Eczema
Edema
Fever
Fungal Infections
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Glands (swollen lymph)
Gout
Hair Care (general)
Hangover
Headache (general)
Headache (tension)
Hemorrhoids
Hepatitis
Herpes
Impetigo
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Insect Repellant
Itching
Jaundice (adults)
Kidney Infection
Kidney Stones
Liver Detoxification
Pain (general remedies for)
Psoriasis
Rashes and Hives
Scars / Scar Tissue
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin (infections)
Skin Care (general)
Ulcers
Urinary Tract Infections
Wounds and Sores