Ogham Letter: Beth
The birch tree is a symbol of rebirth and purification. It was one of the first trees to grow after the ice age and is one of the first trees to sprout leaves every Spring. This led Celtic Astrology to associate the birch with the Sun.
Birch wood is very strong and sturdy, allowing it be used for many things from handles (brooms, axes and the like) to bobbins and spindles in the cotton industry. The traditional Yule Log and Maypoles were made from birch wood, while birch twigs were used to light Beltane fires.
Young druids and bards wore birch sprigs to signify that they were still in training. The Druids made a cordial from the sap and would drink it to celebrate the Spring Equinox.
The leaves have a long history of use in folk medicine, being used to treat urinary tract infections, gout, kidney stones, and more....<<<Read The Full Article Here>>>