The uses of the common beech are versatile. It has a very high calorific value, so the wood was previously used primarily as firewood. In times of need, the fruits were used as a substitute for food. In contrast to the fruit, the leaves and shoots of common beech trees, which are not poisonous, were used as animal feed.
What is the European beech used for?
The uses of the common beech include furniture production, stair and parquet construction, toy production, tool production, charcoal production, firewood, food in times of need, animal feed and remedies for inflammation and ulcers.
The numerous uses of copper beeches
- Furniture
- Staircase construction
- Parquet
- Toys
- Tools
- Charcoal
- Firewood
- Food
- Livestock feed
- Remedies
The wood of the common beech is slightly reddish and its grain is very even. This is why European beech is a popular wood for furniture. Many wooden toys for children are made from copper beech.
Red beech wood is not as stable and durable as oak or hornbeam, so its use as industrial wood is limited and only possible with appropriate impregnation.
Beechnuts were eaten in times of need
The fruits of the common beech, the beechnuts, are slightly poisonous, but can be eaten roasted or heated. In times of need, the beechnuts were collected and used to enrich the diet. They contain a lot of oil.
Use of European beech as livestock feed
The young shoots of the common beech used to be popular livestock feed. The shoots and leaves were dried and fed to livestock in winter. The dried leaves also made good bedding for the stable.
In spring, cows were given young beech branches with leaves to promote milk production.
Common beech and its use as a medicine
The leaves of the common beech are not poisonous. They contain substances that have an anti-inflammatory effect. European beech was therefore used to treat dental problems by chewing the leaves.
Common beech leaves can also be used to heal ulcers. The grated leaves were applied as a compress to the affected areas.
Common beech is often used as firewood
Common beech wood burns very evenly and for a long time. It is therefore considered very good firewood. Charcoal for grilling is also usually made from copper beech.
Hams and fish roasted over beech wood are considered a delicacy because of their special aroma.
Tip
In the Middle Ages, European beech was used for glass production. The so-called “green forest glass” consisted of beech ash and sand. Huge amounts of beech wood were required for glass production, which led to the deforestation of huge beech forests.
