Larch – Larix Decidua

The larch tree is the most common coniferous in Val Chisone.  The suffix “decidua” derives from the ancient Latin word “deciduum” which means “that falls” and highlights the particular characteristics of this tree to lose its leaves during autumn which differentiates it from the other coniferous trees of the area.  This specific characteristic gives the larch more resistance towards cold weather. 

Larch wood is prized and used in woodworking thanks to its durability and strength and because of its beautiful reddish colour.

This tree expresses confidence and safety both for its size and for all its different uses.  Outside woodworking larches were used in the past as a natural medicine.  Since ancient times its sap and resins were well known and recognised for their healing characteristics.

The extract was used for different types of treatments, useful and almost essential for the survival of people who lived in the mountains and forced to live life in a difficult environment.  Larch extract was so useful and valuable in the past that was called ‘green gold’!

One of the most commonly used and known characteristic of the larch extract was an infusion to cure and help problems with the gastrointestinal tract: recent scientific studies have revealed intestinal probiotic characteristics of the extracts facilitate the growth of bacteria flora, which regulates intestinal transit, stimulates biliary secretions and reduces pathogenic agents.  Within its probiotic function, preparations are made from the extract of the larch tree which also help to regulate the immune system.