Birch
Betula alba
Birch was a very important of tree to the anglo-saxons, it was considered hallowed to Thunor (Thor). It was supposed to ward off the evil eye and along with besom, its branches were used to beat evil wights out of lunatics. It has been used not only as a symbol of spring, birth, and new life, but also of death and rebirth. These attributes should not be seen as contradictory, but as symbolic of the cycle of life. A cradle of birch wood protected babies, and sprigs of birch were hung around the home to protect from minor household mishaps.
For medicinal uses birch can be used for chapped lips and cold sores, and its oil is said to be good for skin afflictions. Birch leaf tea has been recommended for rheumatoid arthritis, the extracted bark oil is used in soaps for eczema. Birch leaves are antiseptic and can be used in poultices for wounds.