Birch leaves and bark are traditionally used for folk medicine for centuries. Numerous research focused on the chemical composition and biological effects of birch extracts. The main pharmacologically active compounds found in extracts are flavonoids, saponins, tannins, essential oil, and triterpenes. Different species, age of the plant, geographical region, extraction methods, and analytical techniques influence the chemical composition. Possible role of birch extracts in preventing and treating numerous diseases is enabled by their diuretic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic activity. Therefore, this article is intended to give a general overview of the studies on birch leaves and bark.