Betula: Ecology and Uses

The genus Betula, generally known as birch, belongs to the family Betulaceae. There are about 83 recognized species of Betula, all of which are essential ecological components of northern temperate and boreal woodlands in many parts of the world. The species of this genus have a good tolerance to freezing temperature and water deficit, as well as high sensitivity to UV-B exposure. The chemical composition of Betula pubescens Ehrh. and Betula pendula Roth. buds is assessed, providing data on their biological activities. Betula species show antiarthritic, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory activities, and the authors propose that it is important to consider the biopharmaceutical properties of the secondary metabolites for further development.