The Yule log is, traditionally, Birch also. Cradles made of Birch are said to protect the infant from harm, particularly of a psychic nature. For the same reasons it is said that a small piece of Birch carried upon a person will prevent kidnapping of the individual by the s dhe, or the Faerie Folk. Birch is also an excellent wild food and has many medicinal properties. The catkins produced can be used as food also.
All parts are also high in potassium.
As to its medicinal properties, the uses go on and on and are found in the pharmacies of Native Americans as well as the Druids. The tea is useful and also has a pleasant wintergreen flavor. A tea made of the fresh leaves is useful in clearing sores in the mouth and one cup per day will aid in breaking up small stones in the kidney or the bladder. The bark yields an oil astringent which is beneficial to skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. For any skin eruptions, make an infusion of twigs, leaves and bark for use in the bath water.