Abstract

Rushab Chaudhari*

ABSTRACT

Bhurjapatra (Betula utilis D. Don) is commonly known as Bhojpatra or Himalayan Birch. Besides its traditional use as a writing material, it is one among the important medicinal plants of Ayurvedic literature. This present review was undertaken to compile and analyse available references of Bhurjapatra from classical texts of Charak Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Raj Nighantu, Kaideva Nighantu and Bhavprakash Nighantu. Literary review reveals its use in Prasuti Tantra (obstetrics) conditions such as Prasava Vedana, Prasava Sanga, retained placenta, and Yoni Dhoopana. Nighantu references also describe its utility in Karnaroga (ear related conditions), Medoroga (obesity), Visharoga (Poisoning), Kapha disorders, Pitta-Rakta dushti (vitiation), and protective applications related to Bhootagraha Badha (one among the Ashtanga Ayurveda). The described pharmacodynamics includes Kashaya dominant rasa, Ushna virya, and actions such as Tridoshaghna and Pitta-Rakta shamana. Bhurjapatra has notable historical and medicinal relevance. However, further pharmacognostical, phytochemical, pharmacological, and clinical studies are required to validate its traditional claims and promote evidence-based contemporary use.