The birch leaves have substances that open up the pores and help ventilate the lungs. For those who have experienced the true essence of the "Banya" the venik is a key ingredient.
Proper preperation is is required. Do not remove the protective net during this process. Wrap the venik in a wet towel and place in a warm place overnight. The next day before use, put the venik in a basin or bucket of boiling hot water. Cover with a towel for about 30 minutes until the leaves are soft. Remove the protective net and use.
Venik can be used several times. When there are alot of bare ends discard the Venik. Some leaf parts will be left in the sauna, simple let them them dry and clean them up the next day. Enjoy the special powers of the birch venik!!!