Let's start with what forests mean to the world. In the process of photosynthesis, plants take carbon dioxide from the air, and release oxygen that is vital for the rest of the Earth's organisms. For a long time, therefore, we have called forests as great oxygen factories. One adult pine "produces" the oxygen necessary for three people to live! Collectively, the Earth's forests meet half of the oxygen needs of all humans and animals, producing around 26 billion tonnes of it annually. Forests also absorb carbon dioxide - one hectare of forest absorbs 140-250 tons of CO2 annually.

A forest growing on the slopes of mountains can hold a huge amount of water. Also, forest, mountain soils and litter are absorbent like a sponge and during heavy rainfall or melting snow they retain a lot of water, giving it back gradually. As a result, it is not necessary to build expensive dams and reservoirs to protect inhabited areas against floods not everywhere in the mountains or in the foothills. We had a dramatic example of this in Poland during the flood of the century in 1997. Huge masses of water flowed down the tree-less slopes of the Sudetes, wreaking havoc in the Odra basin. Of course, the forests would not protect the inhabitants from such a terrible cataclysm, because it was caused by extremely heavy rainfall, but if the "forest dam" had worked, the losses would probably be much smaller.

In state-owned forests, nearly half of the stands (49.4%, i.e. 3.4 million ha) are called protective forests. They protect many elements of the natural environment. Most protective forests - natural filters protecting us against pollution - are in the zones of industrial impact. No less important and numerous are water-protective forests that protect, for example, springs or shores of rivers and lakes from falling off. Forests also protect soils, preventing their erosion or sterilization. They are also a barrier to avalanches and landslides in the mountains. They protect the local microclimate of spas, especially favorable for rehabilitation and treatment. They also have a windproof function - by reducing the strength of the wind several times, they protect human settlements and agricultural crops. They decorate the landscape and recreation areas of the population. Even the smallest scraps of forest scattered among the fields or mid-field plantings, which are, for example, a breeding place for birds that destroy harmful insects in agricultural crops, are of significant importance.

The tree of life, symbolizes rebirth. Removes blockages and stagnation. It refreshes, vitalizes and inspires. It helps to get rid of apathy and depression. It stimulates the metabolism and heals skin ailments. It reduces pain and soothes the nerves. Birch sap improves the function of the bladder and kidneys

It frees you from worries, depression, trauma and guilt. It restores the will to act and the joy of life. Strengthens the lungs, supports the cleansing of the respiratory tract, can heal a cough,

The Christmas tree, or the tree of rebirth. It favors the renewal of the body and spirit, and accelerates the healing of wounds. It calms down and strengthens the nervous system. Heals some respiratory diseases. It also helps with headaches and heart ailments

Considered a magic plant and even a witch tree. It has a calming effect. It also has an antipyretic effect

Like pine, it brings very invigorating energy. It adds self-confidence, strengthens the sense of realism, helps to organize your life. Supports circulation and digestion,

He is reluctant to give up energy, but can take over various ailments, especially headaches. It improves circulation, clears thoughts, supports the work of the mind and creativity. It de-stresses, helps to develop empathy

In all cultures of Europe it was considered a tree of the dead and sacred at the same time. It brings relief in rheumatism, arthritis, diseases of tendons and bones,

Symbol of power, longevity and law. It adds strength, promotes regeneration after exercise. It improves brain function and promotes self-reflection. A decoction of its bark is used for skin ailments,