Birch sap: benefits and harms, indications and contraindications, recipes

We all remember the taste of birch sap from childhood - so fresh and sweet. In the USSR, it was collected on an industrial scale and sold in stores in the same way as apple or apricot.

Today, collecting birch sap is an individual matter, it is done by private owners and it is quite difficult to buy this drink. But, if you want, you can collect valuable birch sap yourself, the main thing is to know where, how and when it is done correctly.

Is it worth doing this?

What are the benefits of birch sap?
It contains a huge amount of various microelements and other chemicals necessary for the body during the period of spring vitamin deficiency. Moreover, they are all natural and will bring more benefits than synthetic multivitamin preparations from the pharmacy.

However, you need to remember about some contraindications for drinking birch drink.

Chemical composition

Birch sap (birch tree) is a very valuable drink. From the point of view of vitamin and mineral composition, this is one of the richest natural drinks. So what is the benefit of birch sap? It contains an extensive list of vitamins:

A (retinol) is needed for the visual organs and the immune system;
B1 (thiamine) regulates the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates in various organs;
B2 (riboflavin) promotes hematopoiesis and iron absorption;
B4 (choline) supports the liver and regulates metabolism;
B5 (pantothenic acid) stimulates skin renewal;
B6 (pyridoxine) is needed for the synthesis of serotonin and is involved in the removal of toxins from the body;
B7 (biotin) affects the nervous system and skin;
B9 (folic acid) is important for cell growth, normalizes intestinal microflora;
B12 (cyanocobalamin) stimulates brain activity and improves memory;
C (ascorbic acid) strengthens the immune system and blood vessels;
vitamin D ensures the absorption of calcium and phosphorus;
E (tocopherol) is a powerful antioxidant;
PP (niacin) normalizes metabolism and energy in cells.

The drink also contains a large number of different minerals and trace elements:

sodium regulates water-salt metabolism;
potassium and magnesium are needed for the proper functioning of the heart and brain;
iodine is necessary for the thyroid gland;
manganese ensures proper bone formation;
iron is important for blood formation and the immune system.

Birch tree contains a lot of sugars, tannins, saponins, essential oils, and organic acids.

Thanks to this composition, birch sap can serve as an assistant in the treatment and prevention of certain diseases. But precisely for the same reason, there are a number of diseases for which taking birch drink is strictly contraindicated.

Composition of the drink

Birch sap does not contain fat, the concentration of proteins is 0.1 g/l, carbohydrates are 5.8 g/l. The calorie content of the product is low and amounts to 24 kcal per 100 grams. This allows the healing drink to be used in dietary nutrition for obesity or overweight.

Useful components of birch tree:

fruit sugar is an easily digestible carbohydrate necessary for energy supply to the brain and internal organs;
vitamins – help normalize metabolism, accelerate reparative processes (healing of wounds, cuts, resorption of bruises);
essential oils – improve digestion;
organic acids – participate in oxidation reactions and destruction of under-oxidized substances (free radicals);
tannins – strengthen the walls of blood vessels, prevent inflammation of the mucous membranes, the formation of erosions and ulcers;
phytoncides – have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, resist infectious and colds;
macro- and microelements (calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, sodium, copper, etc.) are necessary for the life of cells of all organs and systems.

The health benefits of birch sap are explained by its unique composition. No other freshly prepared fruit or vegetable juice has such a variety of healing components. But there is one important nuance - the drink must be collected from trees correctly and not contain chemical additives or preservatives.

Blank

Birch sap is collected in the spring, when sap flow along the roots and trunks of trees just begins.

As a rule, this process begins with the melting of snow and most actively continues until the buds swell.

In order to determine whether it is time to prepare this drink, a puncture is made in the birch trunk with an awl, and if droplets of liquid appear, then the time is right.

The extraction of birch sap is completed when the leaves bloom.

Like any living organism, birch has its own biorhythms and the most active movement of sap occurs during the daytime. For this reason, it is collected from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Not every birch tree is suitable for extracting sap. Firstly, the location where the tree grows is important. Despite the fact that birch has a tap root system and receives the bulk of its liquid from the deep layers of the soil, some of the surface roots can absorb toxins dissolved in water from the top layer of soil.

Therefore, to collect the drink, it is worth choosing plants that are far from roads, industries and residential areas.

Secondly, the birch tree must be mature so that the holes made and the nutrient fluid taken from it do not cause significant harm to its health. The diameter of the tree trunk must exceed 20 cm.

To extract birch sap you will need:

knife, axe, awl or gimlet;
straws (can be used for cocktails);
containers made of plastic or glass and a rope for tying them to the trunk.

Some collectors use grooves, pieces of rope or wood chips instead of tubes to drain birch sap, and plastic bottles or plastic bags instead of jars.

The list of devices for collecting birch sap depends on your ingenuity and capabilities. In Soviet times, special kits were produced, but today everyone must assemble it with their own hands.

Birch sap is collected according to the following rules:

holes in the tree are made 2-3 cm deep at a height of 40-50 cm from the ground surface.
it is better to make the slots on the north side of the trunk, since here the movement of fluid is more active;
a wide tube or gutter is inserted into the hole made;
a container is attached to the outer edge of the tube, placing it directly on the ground or tying it to the trunk;
if the trunk diameter is 20-25 cm, then 1 hole is made in the tree; if it is 26-35 cm, then the trunk is pierced twice; and if more than 35 cm, then three times;
from one tree you can get on average about 2-3 liters of birch sap;
Upon completion of the workpiece, the holes must be sealed with wax, soap or moss so that fungi do not get inside the trunk and its rotting does not begin.

By following these simple rules, you can get the maximum amount of juice with minimal damage to the plant.

Collection and storage

You can buy a healing drink in a store, but in this case there is no confidence in the naturalness of the juice. The food industry often adds chemical preservatives to pasok to increase shelf life.

Some unscrupulous juice is artificially produced. In this case, the health benefits of the drink are out of the question. Is birch sap beneficial or harmful, how to buy natural sap to improve the health of the body? It is better to collect birch tree yourself or buy it from trusted manufacturers who can provide quality certificates.

Rules for collecting pasok:

It is necessary to collect sap from trees with a trunk diameter of more than 30 cm;
the time for collecting the drink is from mid-March to the end of April, depending on the climate, the guideline is the swelling of the buds until the leaves appear;
Favorable hours for collecting the drink are from noon (12 o’clock) to evening (18 o’clock);
from one healthy tree you can take no more than 2-3 liters of sap, otherwise the plant will die;
It is recommended to pierce the hole with a drill, not an ax, so as not to cause major damage to the tree;
a plastic groove is inserted into the hole, which is directed into a glass container or bag;
It is better to make a hole in the tree trunk at a distance of 20-30 cm from the ground;
After collecting the sap, the hole is plugged with a wooden plug.

Freshly collected juice should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days. Usually, on the day of collection, the drink is rolled into glass jars for long-term storage.

Storing birch sap

Freshly collected birch sap contains the maximum amount of nutrients possible for this drink. Like many compounds, the components of birch sap are influenced by light, heat and oxygen.

Under their influence, various chemical processes occur, leading to the destruction of some substances and the emergence of others. Therefore, if stored for a long time, the drink not only loses its benefits, but can also become harmful.

Then a logical question arises: how to preserve birch drink so that it brings benefits over a long period.

The shelf life of birch bark without any preparation is only 38 hours in a cool, dark place. However, canning allows you to preserve this useful product a little longer. It includes the following stages:

Glass jars are thoroughly washed and sterilized.
The juice is heated to a temperature of 80 °C, this prevents the development of microflora, but preserves vitamins as much as possible.
The heated drink is poured into the cans to the very top so that there is no air left in them.
The jars are sealed with lids and placed in hot water for 15 minutes.

This method allows you to preserve birch sap for three months. Many housewives prefer to store juice in concentrated form. To do this, it is heated to 60 °C and evaporated to 1/4 of the volume. The resulting liquid is also poured into sterilized jars and sealed. It must be diluted with water before use.

Experts suggest freezing as an alternative to canning. To do this, birch sap is poured into plastic bottles to 3/4 volume, the air is released and frozen.

Composition of birch sap

The list of useful substances contained in the product includes:

organic acids;
sugars (sucrose, as well as glucose and fructose);
phytoncides with a powerful antimicrobial effect.

In addition, the birch drink contains many mineral elements that our organs lack during spring hypovitaminosis.

By drinking a glass of juice a day, you can quickly get rid of the deficiency of such elements as copper, manganese, iron, magnesium, sodium, calcium, and potassium.

Drink Recipes

You can prepare many different drinks using birch sap as a basis; these recipes are quite simple.

This way, using it every day won’t get boring, and some recipes will also enhance the beneficial properties of birch sap with additional ingredients.

Birch kvass. Pour 2 liters of birch sap into a jar, add 1 tablespoon of raisins, 100 g of sugar and leave for 3 days in a warm, dark place. After this, the drink is filtered and put in the refrigerator.
Birch lemonade. For 2 liters of birch sap, take 1 large lemon, cut into slices and add 7 tablespoons of sugar. Pour birch sap over the lemon and heat to a boil. Remove from heat and let sit for at least 3 hours. The mixture is filtered and cooled.
Birch sap with honey. This recipe will help answer the question of how to preserve birch sap for a long time. For 5 liters of birch sap take 25 g of fresh yeast, 30 g of natural honey and 15 pcs. raisins Mix everything and put it in a dark place for 2 weeks. After this, the kvass will be usable all summer long.

People's experience of use

Only the fresh composition has beneficial properties and for a short time. The product can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. When warm, it becomes cloudy and sour within two days, which is important to consider when collecting the product: you should not prepare too much of it.

Freezing it allows you to partially preserve the benefits of the product at home. But canning almost completely destroys valuable qualities: only sugars are preserved, while organic acids and betulin disintegrate.

General strengthening agent

In folk medicine, it is recommended to drink one glass of liquid per day as a general tonic. It will support the body's strength in the fight against disease:

respiratory system - bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, bronchiectasis;
skin - furunculosis, eczema, lichen;
joints - rheumatism, arthritis.

It is especially useful for gout, as it helps remove uric acid crystals from tissues. The drink is believed to have blood purifying properties and cure jaundice. Removes small deposits from the liver and kidneys, does not destroy large stones, but partially dissolves.

Skin care

For eczema and lichen, lotions with juice are recommended. It reduces inflammation and stimulates the regeneration of healthy tissue. The composition, saturated with microelements and bioactive substances, is beneficial for the skin as a whole. Cosmetologists recommend using birch ice: wipe your face and neck with it in the morning and evening after washing. The product can be used instead of a tonic, it improves turgor, refreshes, and improves appearance.

Hair care

It is recommended to rinse your hair with a clean composition after washing to strengthen it and improve growth. But this technique is available to residents of villages located near the forest. In the city, you can prepare a mask with oils. To prepare it, mix a tablespoon of castor and burdock oils. Add a teaspoon of honey and two tablespoons of birch sap. The product is slightly heated over water and rubbed into the roots. The head is wrapped with film and a towel. Leave the composition for 30 minutes, then wash off with shampoo. Use twice a week for a month.

When canning, it is impossible to preserve the beneficial properties of the product, but it is easy to get tasty drinks. The natural sugars included in its composition add moderate sweetness to wines and kvass.

Yeast-free kvass

Peculiarities . Traditional recipe used in Russian and Belarusian villages. There are only two ingredients in it, and the composition is infused without yeast, making the preparation process as simple as possible. There is no need to add sugar to the drink.

Pour the fresh drink into a glass jar.
Cut the rye bread into pieces, dry in the oven or in the open air.
Place the crackers in a cloth bag.
Place the bag in the container and close the lid.
Leave for two days until fermentation begins.
Then remove the lid and leave for another three to five days.

Kvass with raisins

Peculiarities . The drink has a sweet and rich taste. Due to the large amount of sugars in the composition, it is stored for a long time. The recipe is for 10 liters of juice.

Pour 500 g of sugar into fresh juice and mix thoroughly.
Wash and peel 100 g of raisins, add to the drink.
Pour the mixture into three-liter jars without filling to the top.
Cover with a cloth and secure it with elastic bands at the necks.
Leave in a warm place for three days.
Strain the drink through cheesecloth.
Pour the finished kvass into glass jars. It will last up to four months in a cool, dark place.

Drink with orange

Peculiarities . A refreshing drink with notes of citrus. Thanks to canning, it can be stored for several years. The recipe calls for using 10 liters of birch sap as a base.

Wash the jars, sterilize, boil the lids.
Cut two oranges into large rings.
Place one or two rings in each jar.
Pour the juice into a large saucepan, place on the fire, and heat until boiling.
Add a tablespoon of citric acid.
Add 500 g of sugar, stir until dissolved.
Seal the jars with lids.
Place the jars upside down, cover with a blanket, and let cool completely.

Drink with hibiscus

Peculiarities . Hibiscus with lemon adds exquisite sourness and ruby color to the sweet drink. The recipe uses 3 liters of raw materials.

Brew a tablespoon of hibiscus with a glass of boiling water.
Leave to sit for one hour.
Pour the main product into a saucepan, put on fire, and bring to a boil.
Add hibiscus, juice of 1/3 lemon, 150 g of sugar.
Mix thoroughly.
Pour the drink into jars, seal, cover with a blanket and let cool completely.

Birch is the leader in the intensity of sap flow, but not the only tree known for this property. The product can also be extracted from the wood of ash-leaved maple, walnut, and sugar maple. In Russia, these crops are still planted infrequently. But it is obvious that they can provide raw materials for the production of maple and nut syrups. The development of these products is already underway in our country.

Medicinal properties

Like everything that enters the body, birch sap has its benefits and harms. Its composition has been discussed in some detail above. But let’s look at how birch sap is useful for specific ailments now.

for vitamin deficiency, birch sap helps to enrich the diet with missing vitamins;
for chronic fatigue, nervousness, lack of sleep and other signs of depression, B vitamins in the drink stimulate brain metabolism and the synthesis of serotonin - the hormone of happiness;
tannins contained in the juice strengthen the gums and stomach walls;
birch grass has a positive effect on blood quality, increases the number of red blood cells;
It is useful to drink this drink when intoxicated, since birch sap has a unique property of helping to remove harmful substances from the body;
since birch sap stimulates skin renewal processes, it is useful to take it for diseases such as furunculosis and dermatitis;
many compounds in birch sap have a positive effect on digestion and normalize the absorption of substances by the intestinal villi;
the rich vitamin and mineral composition of birch sap helps strengthen the immune system;
In folk medicine, this drink is widely used to treat kidney diseases, as it has a mild diuretic effect. In addition, it is able to wash away fine sand, preventing urolithiasis;
It also helps cleanse the liver and also stimulates the functioning of the gallbladder;
birch sap has antimicrobial and antifungal effects, so it can be used in the complex treatment of sore throat for gargling;
it is taken orally and made into compresses in the treatment of gout and arthritis.

Risks and contraindications

Birch drink is not called a medicinal product, but rather a tonic and beneficial one. But its use can cause harm to the body.

“Once in childhood, we all collected birch sap and drank it with pleasure,” comments general practitioner A. Strelchenko. - But look around. There are no environmentally friendly places left in cities. It is not known which ditch or trash can that birch tree grew near, and what substances it accumulated in the wood.”

According to the expert, collecting the drink in the city is strictly prohibited. Wood actively absorbs toxins and heavy metal salts, especially if the tree grows near the road. You can even get poisoned with such a drink, and the danger of intoxication is that its symptoms appear gradually as toxic substances accumulate in the body.

It is important to consider contraindications.

Diabetes . The high sugar content and complete lack of fiber is dangerous for people with diabetes, as it causes an immediate increase in glucose levels in the body.
Allergy. If you are individually intolerant to birch pollen, you should not try its sap due to the likelihood of developing an allergic reaction.
Diseases of the urinary system. The drink has a pronounced diuretic effect. It can be harmful if you have kidney stones.
Stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastritis. For these diseases, the drink should not be abused, but you can drink it in small quantities.

Contraindications

However, with all these benefits, the harm from birch sap can also be significant. It is contraindicated for the following diseases:

allergy to birch pollen;
exacerbation of peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum;
acute form of urolithiasis.

It is not recommended for children under one year of age, as well as for people with individual intolerance to the components of the drink.

The question of how much birch sap you can drink per day is also important. Indeed, if you abuse this drink, diarrhea can begin.

Standard dosage: 1 glass of juice 3 times a day for 1 month.

For diabetics, it should be diluted with water in a ratio of 1:2.

If there are no contraindications, the daily intake of juice can be increased, but then after every 2 weeks of consumption it is necessary to take a week's break so as not to harm your health.

Features of use

For the average person, birch sap is both beneficial and harmful , depending on how much you can drink for medical reasons.

Doctors do not recommend drinking more than 1.5-2 liters of juice per day, especially if you also drink a lot of water. Ideal consumption regimen: a glass shortly before meals, three times a day. some health immediately (reduced swelling during a runny nose or a change from a dry cough to a wet one), but the full effect of the juice will be visible after 2 weeks.

For diseases

If you have diabetes, it is absolutely safe to drink, but in portions of no more than 150 ml and half an hour before meals, so that the body can properly absorb all the substances. In this case, a sufficiently sour drink will not cause spikes in blood glucose.

For those suffering from pancreatitis, it is recommended, on the contrary, to increase the portion to 500 ml and drink three times a day before meals.

For problems with blood pressure and the functioning of the cardiovascular system, frequent headaches, migraines, you need to drink ½ glass of juice on an empty stomach to normalize the functioning of the nervous and circulatory systems.

It is recommended to drink 50 ml of the drink, diluted with water in a ratio of 2:1, three times a day for problems with the gastrointestinal tract: from bloating and difficulties with bowel movements to exacerbations of chronic diseases and gastritis (only with low acidity). A medicinal drink with the same recipe is suitable for those who suffer from arthritis, arthrosis, gout, varicose veins and other vascular diseases.

If you have doubts about whether you should drink birch sap or you feel negative effects from a small amount, it is better to coordinate the process with your doctor or abandon the drink altogether.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding

During the first trimester, birch extract can help combat toxicosis and facilitate the process of change for the body as a whole. In the second and third trimester, it does an excellent job of normalizing blood pressure, reducing swelling and mood swings. To do this, it is recommended to drink juice in a course - at least 2-3 weeks, 3 glasses a day.

Birch drink is indispensable during breastfeeding: it will help to slightly reduce pain in a young mother, normalize milk production and transfer a whole cocktail of useful substances to the baby. A nursing woman does not need to drink a lot; 100 ml before meals will be enough. The main thing is to make sure that you are not allergic to birch pollen, so as not to harm the child.

Important! It is not recommended to give the drink as complementary food to a child - in its pure form it is poorly absorbed until 1 year of age. You should accustom it gradually: one spoon at a time and slowly increasing the portion to 100-150 ml a couple of times a week.

When losing weight

Birch sap removes toxins well, improves metabolism and has a diuretic effect, which makes it one of the remedies that people are potentially advised to drink when losing weight. However, it is important to remember that without proper nutrition, activity throughout the day and exercise, you will not be able to lose weight - unless it harms your body. If you follow all the advice of doctors and nutritionists, birch extract will help you on your way to the desired parameters.

In home cosmetology

Birch sap can be used for cosmetic purposes: to improve the condition of skin, hair, gums and even intimate hygiene. Its chemical composition goes well with all bases for creating DIY cosmetics.

In the treatment of acne

For acne, it is recommended to wipe your face with a cube of frozen juice every day. You can also make a mask with cosmetic clay, mixing the ingredients to the consistency of thick cream - this simultaneously soothes the skin, moisturizes and saturates it with useful substances.

To strengthen hair

To make your hair healthier, stronger and have a vibrant shine, apply the juice instead of conditioner or rinse your hair with it as a decoction after washing. Another great way to speed up growth and restore strength to your hair: mix birch extract with burdock oil in a 3:1 ratio. The mixture should be applied to the hair, wrapped in a plastic cap or film, then with a warm towel and left for 20 minutes, then washed.

Seborrhea lotion

To prepare a lotion for seborrhea of the scalp, you will need to mix a glass of vodka with 2 tablespoons of birch sap and add one spoon each of honey and table salt, stir well. Then the mixture is removed for 10 days in a dark, dry place.

You need to apply the lotion to the scalp an hour and a half before washing, wrapping your hair with a cap and a towel.

Cosmetic ice made from birch sap

To prepare cosmetic ice, you will need a convenient form for freezing liquid and a sufficient amount of juice for it. It can be frozen immediately after collection or additionally heated to 80° and cooled. You can add other herbal solutions or essential oils to birch ice, depending on the preferences and needs of your skin.

In cooking

If there is a large amount of birch sap, it can also be used for culinary purposes. For example, make very tasty and healthy kvass.

To do this, select a large, convenient jar, pour the juice into it, add a small handful of raisins and a crust of black bread. You can add a little sugar to improve the fermentation reaction. After a few days of storage in a dark place, the liquid will finally ferment and you will get a cooling drink that will keep well in the refrigerator for several months.

Application for women's health and beauty

Birch grass has a special role in maintaining women's health. Even pregnant women can drink it.

The vitamins in its composition will help the expectant mother maintain healthy skin, hair and teeth, and will help the fetus to correctly form the basic systems.

Sodium and potassium in birch sap help normalize fluid levels in tissues, which leads to a decrease in swelling.

This drink also helps in the fight against another ailment that often occurs in pregnant women, constipation. Regular consumption of birch sap helps improve intestinal function.

Is birch sap good for weight loss? When losing weight, it can become a valuable assistant. By reducing puffiness, it helps reduce the appearance of cellulite. It is a good product for ladies who prefer mono-diets.

With a poor diet, the intake of vitamins into the body is sharply reduced, and birch sap will help compensate for their deficiency. Among other things, it improves metabolism, which is also a good help in losing weight.

This drink is also useful for external use, added to various masks and lotions.

To make hair beautiful, birch sap is rubbed into the scalp. This helps strengthen the roots, get rid of excess fat and dandruff. You can add a little castor oil and honey to the juice and apply it to the entire length of your hair.

To combat acne, wipe your face with undiluted juice 2 times a day. It also helps lighten freckles and age spots a little.

Harm of birch sap

By itself, this healing drink cannot harm a person, even when consumed in large quantities. However, its use may cause discomfort in those people who are allergic to birch pollen!

Also, we remind you that you need to collect birch sap only from trees located at a considerable distance from highways, factories and other places with poor ecology! Otherwise, you can not only not improve your health, but also significantly worsen your health.

Birch sap benefits and harms, beneficial properties, contraindications, areas of application

Birch sap is beneficial and harmful, debates about this still do not subside. Nature lovers believe that the healing properties of the drink are not worth the damage that is caused to the tree during the harvesting of birch trees. Let's look for the answer to these questions ourselves.

Useful properties of birch sap

The benefits of birch tree for the body are great. Fresh birch sap has more benefits. After 2 hours, its quality indicators change. Fresh birch is a good tonic and tonic. Will help avoid fatigue, drowsiness, lethargy.

Berezovitsa has the strongest antiseptic properties. This is used to treat sore throat, gargling with juice is used.

Thanks to betulin contained in birch sap, sensitivity to insulin increases. Therefore, birch sap is useful for people with diabetes.

Birch sap in folk medicine

Due to its beneficial properties, the juice is widely used in medicine. Many people are interested in how to drink birch sap. For medicinal purposes, the juice must be fresh, 200 ml. before meals, course 1 month. It is used:

for headaches
for diseases of the respiratory system, tuberculosis
to improve metabolism and digestive tract function
people with gallstones and kidney stones
for joint diseases, arthritis, gout, rheumatism, edema
for cough and sore throat
for vitamin deficiencies
as an anthelmintic

For dry cough, mix birch and carrot sap in a ratio of 1 to 1, drink 100 ml, dividing the dose 5 times a day. To strengthen the heart muscles, you can add honey to this mixture. The course of treatment is up to 3 months.

It will be useful to carry out 3-week therapy with birch grass. Three times daily intake of juice, 200 ml. will have a beneficial effect on metabolism. It will cleanse the body of waste and toxins accumulated over the long winter.

The juice has a powerful diuretic effect. Destroys stones in the urinary tract. Removes toxins from the body in case of poisoning. It will be useful for people with cancer.

Birch sap is also used externally. It is used for furunculosis, skin diseases, eczema, and acne. Has a regenerating effect. Used to prevent caries in children. Its benefits have been proven for men with impotence.

Contraindications

People with a medical history of urolithiasis and stomach ulcers should consult a doctor before consuming birch bark. As well as for patients with an allergy to birch catkin pollen.

Birch sap in the food industry

At all times, birch sap has been used for food purposes and in cooking. Low-alcohol drinks such as kvass and beer are prepared on its basis. They prepare delicious syrup, sweet porridges, berry and fruit jelly, and cook compotes. Added when brewing teas.

Birch sap in cosmetology

Birch sap is considered an excellent cosmetic drug, suitable for all skin types. It is useful for dry skin of the face and scalp. To get rid of dandruff and improve hair growth, it is useful to rinse your hair with birch sap. The juice will help in the fight against oily hair and hair loss.

The juice well nourishes, moisturizes and tones the skin of the face at any age, if used morning and evening for wiping. In addition, this will get rid of acne and make the skin smooth and glowing.

You can store pasok for this purpose for no more than 2 days. Therefore, you can prepare your own lotion by mixing a glass of birch sap and 40 ml of alcohol. Wipe a clean face with the resulting solution twice a day.

You can prepare cosmetic ice for future use by freezing birch sap.

Storage methods

Fresh juice has a short shelf life. To extend its shelf life, preservatives are added or it is processed. Natural preservatives that extend shelf life include: honey, lemon juice, orange juice, sugar, currant branches. Can be stored in a glass container in the refrigerator for 7-12 days. The glass container does not affect the composition or taste of the drink and maintains a constant temperature. The shelf life depends on the time of collection; juice collected before buds open is stored longer than a drink collected during the leaf bloom period.

Until the buds open, the tree's liquid contains many active components for the formation of foliage. After the leaves appear, the juice contains substances secreted by the leaf blades, which reduce the shelf life of the drink. In plastic bottles, the juice retains its medicinal properties for about 2-3 days. Canned pure juice can be stored for up to 8 months.

Birch liquid can be frozen. To preserve medicinal properties, it is better to use freezers with a quick freezing function. The shelf life of frozen juice is up to 9 months. To ensure that it freezes quickly, it is better to pour it into containers in quantities of no more than 0.5 liters. You cannot put it in the freezer again; the defrosted drink can be stored for no more than 2 days.

To make a concentrate from birch bark, it is evaporated at a temperature of +60°C until the volume of the liquid is reduced by 75%. The resulting liquid is the concentrate. It is poured into sterile containers and covered with lids. Place in a cool, dark place. The concentrate has an average shelf life of 1 year.

Important! When consuming concentrate, it can be diluted with water; the shelf life of opened juice is 2-4 days.

Composition and calorie content

In order for birch sap to be beneficial, it is collected from April to May. The drink is popular in Russia, as well as Northern China and Scandinavia. The taste is similar to spring water. However, the insignificant concentration of natural sugars gives the juice a woody note.

Birch sap is an integral part of the diet due to its health benefits. Harm may be caused by drinking juice if you have an individual intolerance. 100 g of drink contains only 22 kcal.

The benefit lies in the unique composition:

Organic acids. Elements necessary to normalize the acid-base balance in the body. Their presence promotes the absorption of various nutrients while simultaneously removing toxins that harm internal organs. This is manifested by chronic fatigue and general malaise, disruption of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Phytoncides. The benefits of substances are to neutralize dangerous fungi, viruses and bacteria that enter the human body and cause harm to it. These microorganisms cause diseases of the ENT organs and bronchopulmonary system.
Fructose. Acts as a source of energy for the entire body. Fructose has a low calorie content compared to regular sugar.
Glucose. Its benefit lies in its ability to remove toxins from the body. Glucose is involved in metabolic processes and stimulation of cardiac activity. Thanks to this substance, the brain is nourished and the psycho-emotional state is normalized. If the level is excessive, glucose can cause harm to the body, which is manifested by weight gain and increased cholesterol. Harm manifests itself in the development of atherosclerosis, thrombophlebitis and allergies.
Essential oils. They are known for their beneficial effects on the nervous system and emotional background. The benefits of oils are also manifested in their ability to have a bactericidal effect. The essential oils contained in birch sap can harm the body during lactation and allergies.
Saponins. This term refers to a chemical compound present in birch sap. Saponins influence the absorption of nutrients by the body and have a positive effect on hormonal levels. Scientists believe that the benefit of the compound is its carcinogenic effect and the prevention of tumor formation.
Betulin. The substance is highly active and reduces the adverse effects of various pathogenic factors on the body.
Tannins. They have the property of reducing the secretory function of the gastrointestinal tract. The irritating and astringent effect depends on the concentration of tannins in birch sap. Regular consumption of the drink brings benefits to the body, which is manifested by slowing down intestinal motility and active absorption of various nutrients.

The benefits of birch sap are due to the content of vitamins and minerals:

Potassium. The element regulates the functioning of the muscles, cardiovascular and nervous systems. Sufficient intake of potassium in the body prevents chronic stress.
Calcium. The level of the substance affects the excitability of nerve tissue, blood clotting, and cholesterol levels. Calcium takes part in the functioning of the adrenal glands, thyroid and pancreas, and pituitary gland. Excessive intake into the body is harmful. Drowsiness, depression, fatigue, lack of appetite, hypertension, arrhythmia, and joint pain are noted.
Magnesium. The benefit of magnesium is the absorption of vitamins B1, 6, 12. The element is directly involved in the functioning of the kidneys, brain, and endocrine system. If there is an excess of magnesium, it causes harm, which is manifested by decreased blood pressure, nausea, and respiratory depression.
Nickel. Participates in the processes of hematopoiesis, nutrition of tissues and brain cells. Nickel enhances the functioning of the pituitary gland and affects metabolic processes.
Sodium. The macroelement ensures the functioning of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Sodium has a vasodilating effect. The harm of excess sodium is the insufficient absorption of other substances and the development of diseases of the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Copper. The element is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The benefit of copper lies in the proper functioning of the digestive system and endocrine glands by activating the pituitary gland. A deficiency in the body causes harm, which is usually observed with vegetarianism and an unbalanced diet.
Silicon. The chemical element is important for the formation of bone, connective and cartilage tissues, the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. Silicon ensures the absorption of vitamins in the body. Damage caused by deficiency includes premature aging and the appearance of premature age-related changes.
Aluminum. The substance is necessary for the body to build and restore connective, bone and epithelial tissues. Aluminum shortages are rare. Its excess causes harm in the form of various disorders of the nervous system.
Iron. Scientists call it a multifunctional element. For example, iron promotes the retention of oxygen in the blood, ensures the removal of carbon dioxide, and cleanses the liver of substances that can cause harm.
Manganese. The benefits of the element in preventing osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, and diabetes. Hormonal levels in women, the motility of male sperm and the mechanism of lactation depend on the concentration of magnesium.
Titanium. The effect of the substance on recovery processes after a violation of bone integrity is known. Titanium plays a role in hematopoiesis and is responsible for the adequate functioning of the vestibular apparatus.

Attention! The vitamins and minerals contained in birch sap help maintain health and well-being.

How to choose a place or tree to collect sap

Pure birch sap is extracted from the forest, birch grove. It is necessary to select a tree for collection based on the following factors:

Birch age is from 25 to 30 years;
trunk diameter is at least 20 cm;
massive, healthy crown;
a straight trunk without damage, cracks in the bark, or many dry branches;
preference is given to trees located in sunny, open areas.

If the birch tree has a slight slope, it is more convenient to collect sap, since it is easier to secure the collection container.

Birch roots go very deep into the ground, and therefore it does not absorb toxic substances located on the surface of the soil. Experts in collecting sap advise collecting birch trees in environmentally friendly places, since trees can absorb harmful substances and exhaust gases through the leaves. If it grows near roads, industrial enterprises, areas where chemicals and industrial waste are released, the juice may contain heavy metals and toxic substances.

It is prohibited to collect the drink from seedlings growing on the territory of sanatoriums, hospitals, city parks, greenhouses, squares and other protected places. Damage to birch trees growing in a protected area is subject to administrative penalties. You can collect sap in birch groves, forests or on your own plot. The drink can only be used for self-consumption; it cannot be sold without a license.

The effect of birch sap on women and children

I would like to say separately about the effect of birch sap on women’s and children’s bodies. Juice in any quantity is harmless to children.

If a pregnant woman has toxicosis, birch sap will help get rid of it. In pregnant women, the load on the urinary system increases. Swelling appears on the limbs and face. Drinking juice helps in solving this problem.

It will help with indigestion and get rid of excess weight gained during pregnancy if you take it 3 times a glass. per day.

Despite the fact that birch grass stimulates lactation, nursing mothers should limit their juice consumption. Because the body of an infant may not be able to cope with the large amount of vitamins and sugar included in pasokka.

Works well for women during menopause. Relieves irritability and other menopausal symptoms.

How and when to collect

Many people are interested in questions: how to collect birch sap and when is the best time to do it.

This wonderful drink is collected in early spring (most often at the end of March, when the spring equinox ends). Sap flow will continue until the end of April. You can check the beginning of sap flow by making a puncture with an awl (the thickness of the wood should be no thinner than a human hand). Having noticed a drop of liquid in this place, we can conclude that the juice has gone.

But how to collect this wonderful drink so as not to harm the birch tree ? Sometimes you have to observe cruel treatment of a tree: rough cuts with an axe, and not in just one place! This is strictly prohibited.

When collecting juice, follow simple rules:

No need to use an axe! It is necessary to make a neat hole. For this purpose, you can use a drill with a drill whose length is no more than 10 mm. Such a hole will not cause problems for the tree, and next year there will be no trace of it left.

No need to be greedy! You cannot collect all the sap to the last drop from one tree - this will lead to its death. It’s better not to be lazy and choose several trees, methodically collecting a liter from each per day.
Having finished collecting the juice, be sure to close the “wound” with a cork-peg or garden pitch. You can use wax or moss. This will help the tree avoid serious problems (the hole is open access for pathogenic bacteria).

Instructions for collecting sap from birch trees

Prepare a vessel to collect the juice in advance. It is very convenient to use a large plastic bottle. Its narrow neck prevents various debris and insects from getting into the juice. Plus, you don't have to constantly check the vessel. You can go a couple of times a day (morning and evening, for example).
Choose a birch tree. Knowledgeable people claim that the sap of a mature tree is much sweeter. Keep this in mind! A tree with a slight slope is much more convenient for collecting sap.
Having retreated about twenty centimeters from the ground, make a hole and adapt a container for collection.
All that remains is to make a groove through which the juice will flow. The ideal device grows under your feet: wash a bunch of last year's grass in advance and strengthen it so that one end comes out of the hole in the tree and the other is immersed in the neck of the bottle. Not a single drop will fall by, since natural grass is an excellent conductor with a capillary effect.
Now all that remains is to check and empty the bottles. Usually you have to walk up to three times a day.