A bath broom is an indispensable attribute of bath procedures, with the help of it steam is injected and the skin is massaged. There are quite a few types of bath brooms, but in Russia, due to the natural and climatic features, the birch bath broom is most widespread.
Birch branches and leaves, which are used to make bath brooms, are, of course, exclusively biological and natural material. It is known that the leaves of this tree secrete phytoncides that purify the surrounding air. And due to their high porosity, they are also able to absorb sweat and adhere to the human body.
Birch brooms are convenient and practical to use, useful for the body and human health. That is why they have become widespread as an indispensable attribute of bath procedures. On the territory of Russia, you can find about 50 species of this wonderful tree. The most suitable for harvesting brooms is weeping birch, which differs from the rest by its flexible and long branches.
Procurement of material
It is best to harvest birch brooms in July, since it is at this time of the year that in most regions of Russia the leaves are still soft and young, but have already reached the required size. The optimal length is considered to be a thin branch of 50-60 cm. The branches should be green in color, so that the leaf is velvety on one side and smooth on the other. All leaves must be exceptionally healthy. If you use rough leaves, then the broom will be tough. It is best to cut off the side branches or those near the roots. In addition, you must cut the branches carefully and carefully so as not to damage the tree.
According to an ancient custom, brooms are harvested on Trinity Day, which happens on the 49th day after Easter. It usually falls in early to mid June. In some regions of the Russian Federation, at this time, the birch may not bloom, while in others it may throw away the earrings.
Knitting brooms
Knitting a broom is the next important stage in the harvesting process. The place where the handle will be must be cleaned of twigs and leaves, after which the broom should be tied in such a way that it turns out to be flattened. It is worth remembering that the broom should be light so that you can wave it as long as you like without getting tired.
All collected branches near the handle must be wrapped with twine or tight rope. To prevent calluses on your hands, it is better to wrap the broom handle with a cloth or bandage. After that, the broom must be well dried by placing it in a ventilated dark place where the sun's rays do not fall.
Birch leaves contain essential oils, tannins, vitamin C, provitamin A. After parka, the skin will be smooth, elastic, and pleasant in color.
In order to retain the smell and all the benefits of a birch broom, it must be stored in a haystack, in the attic or in a garage. It is better to use a dense plastic bag for storage - this will definitely preserve all the useful properties of brooms.
