Bark may seem like an ordinary and mundane part of trees, but it is much more than that. It is an essential part of the tree, serving multiple purposes, including protection against pests, diseases, and weather elements.
One of the most apparent uses of bark is as a protective casing for trees. It provides a barrier that helps trees fend off insects, fungi, and other organisms that could damage and even kill the plant. The outer layer of the bark – also called the cork layer – is responsible for repelling water and protecting the tree against extreme weather conditions like freezing and dehydration.
Moreover, bark also serves as firewood, and it is a popular source of fuel for fireplaces, ovens, and stoves. It is also a critical component in industrial processes that convert it into charcoal.
In addition, bark has medicinal properties, which make it an essential ingredient in traditional medicine. For instance, willow bark has been used for centuries to alleviate pain, inflammation, and fever. The medicinal property of willow bark is due to the presence of salicylic acid, which is the active ingredient in aspirin.
Furthermore, the food industry also uses bark, particularly in certain cuisines. Bark chips are an ingredient in German cuisine, where it is used primarily as a flavouring for beer. In other parts of the world, such as Africa and Asia, bark is used to make soups, teas, and tonics. In the Philippines, a traditional rice cake called kakanin is wrapped and cooked in banana leaves lined with bark to lend it a unique aroma.
In conclusion, while we often take it for granted, bark is an essential part of the tree that plays a crucial role in various aspects of our daily life, including cooking, medicine, and fuel. The versatility and adaptability of bark demonstrate multiple ways in which nature provides us with resources in our everyday lives.