Why is birch sap useful?

Birch buds, leaves and sap have been used for medicinal purposes for more than one century. The benefits and harms of birch sap are due to its constituent elements. Fluid is released when the bark is cut.

To collect the juice, a groove is inserted instead of a break. Thus, the nectar flows into a previously prepared container. Then the area of ​​the fracture should be sealed with wax in order to prevent the wood from drying out.

Composition and calorie content

For birch sap to be beneficial, it is harvested from April to May. The drink is popular in Russia, as well as North China and Scandinavia. The taste is similar to spring water. However, an insignificant concentration of natural sugars gives the juice a woody flavor.

Birch sap is an essential part of the diet for its health benefits. The harm may be due to the use of juice with individual intolerance. There are only 22 kcal in 100 g of the drink.

The benefits lie in the unique composition:

1. Organic acids. Elements necessary for the normalization of acid-base balance in the body. Their presence promotes the assimilation of various nutrients while simultaneously removing toxins that harm the internal organs. This is manifested by chronic fatigue and general malaise, dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Phytoncides. The use of substances in the neutralization of dangerous fungi, viruses and bacteria that enter the human body and harm it. These microorganisms cause diseases of the ENT organs and the bronchopulmonary system.
3. Fructose. It acts as a source of energy for the whole organism. Fructose is low in calories compared to regular sugar.
4. Glucose. Its benefit lies in the ability to remove toxins from the body. Glucose is involved in metabolic processes, cardiac stimulation. Thanks to this substance, the brain is nourished and the psycho-emotional state is normalized. With an excessive level of glucose, it can harm the body, which is manifested by weight gain, an increase in cholesterol. The harm manifests itself in the development of atherosclerosis, thrombophlebitis and allergies.
5. 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. Essential oils contained in birch sap can harm the body during lactation and allergies.
6. Saponins. This term refers to a chemical compound present in birch sap. Saponins affect the absorption of nutrients by the body, have a positive effect on the hormonal background.Scientists believe that the compound is beneficial in carcinogenic effects and in the prevention of tumor formation.
7. Betulin. The substance is highly active and reduces the adverse effects on the body of various pathogenic factors.
8. Tannins. They have the property of lowering the secretory function of the gastrointestinal tract. The irritating and astringent effect depends on the concentration of tannins in the birch sap. Regular intake of the drink brings benefits to the body, which is manifested by a slowdown in intestinal motility and the active absorption of various nutrients.

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

1. Potassium. The element regulates the functioning of the muscles, cardiovascular and nervous systems. Adequate intake of potassium in the body prevents chronic stress.
2. Calcium. The level of the substance affects the excitability of nerve tissues, blood coagulation, cholesterol content. Calcium takes part in the functioning of the adrenal glands, thyroid and pancreas, and the pituitary gland. Excessive intake is harmful. Drowsiness, depression, fatigue, lack of appetite, hypertension, arrhythmia, joint pain are noted.
3. Magnesium. The benefits of magnesium are in the assimilation of vitamins B1, 6, 12. The element is directly involved in the work of the kidneys, brain, endocrine system. With an excess of magnesium, it is harmful, which is manifested by a decrease in pressure, nausea, and respiratory depression.
4. Nickel. Participates in the processes of hematopoiesis, nutrition of brain tissues and cells. Nickel enhances the work of the pituitary gland, affects metabolic processes.
5. Sodium. The macronutrient ensures the functioning of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Sodium has a vasodilating effect. The harm of an excess of sodium is the insufficient absorption of other substances and the development of diseases of the heart, kidneys, and liver.
6. Copper. The element is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The benefits of copper lie in the proper functioning of the digestive system and endocrine glands by activating the pituitary gland. A deficiency in the body is harmful, which is usually observed with vegetarianism and an unbalanced diet.
7. Silicon. The chemical element is important for the formation of bone, connective and cartilaginous tissues, the work of the heart and blood vessels. Silicon ensures the absorption of vitamins in the body. The harm caused by deficiency implies premature aging and the appearance of premature age-related changes.
8. Aluminum. The substance is necessary for the body to build and restore connective, bone and epithelial tissues. Lack of aluminum is rare. Its excess causes harm in the form of various disorders from the nervous system.
9. Iron.Scientists call it a multifunctional element. For example, iron contributes to the retention of oxygen in the blood, ensures the removal of carbon dioxide, cleansing the liver of substances that can be harmful.
10. Manganese.The use of the element in the prevention of osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, diabetes. The hormonal background in women, the mobility of male sperm and the mechanism of lactation depends on the concentration of magnesium.
11. Titanium. The effect of the substance on the recovery processes after the violation of the integrity of the bones is known. Titanium plays a role in hematopoiesis and is responsible for the adequate functioning of the vestibular apparatus.

Useful properties of birch sap

The drink has numerous properties that benefit the body. Doctors call the following positive effects that occur when drinking birch sap:

• strengthening the immune system and blood vessels;
• beneficial effect on the work of the heart;
• improving memory, attention;
• normalization of metabolism and organs of the digestive system;
• cleansing the kidneys, liver, gallbladder from toxins;
• increased resistance to ARVI due to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action;
• improvement of hair, skin, nails;
• elimination of puffiness;
• decrease in pressure;
• acceleration of blood circulation, regeneration processes;
• replenishment of vitamin deficiencies;
• stabilization of the psycho-emotional background;
• facilitating the course of the climacteric period;
• regulation of the level of sex hormones in men;
• prevention of oncological diseases.

Experts emphasize that birch sap contributes to weight loss due to the normalization of metabolic processes. The benefits of regular drinking in the elimination of cholesterol, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular pathologies.

It is noteworthy that the juice can be drunk in large quantities without harm to health. This is due to the absence of irritation of the gastric mucous membranes. The drink is recommended in minimal quantities for ulcers.

The normalization of pressure also occurs due to an increase in the level of hemoglobin. The juice is beneficial in the treatment of angina, asthma, pneumonia and other bronchopulmonary diseases. Urologists recommend the drink as an anti-inflammatory, decongestant and diuretic as part of the complex treatment of diseases of the genitourinary tract.

For men

The benefits of birch sap for men's health cannot be overestimated. Taking a natural medicine promotes the production of testosterone, which is the main sex hormone in men. The beneficial effect is manifested by an increase in libido, sperm quality.

Improvement of potency and stabilization of the psychoemotional state are also distinguished among the positive effects. No harm is essential. Thus, birch sap can be drunk with benefit without first consulting a doctor.

For women

Drinking the drink helps to normalize weight, significantly improve the condition of hair, nails and skin. The inclusion of birch sap in the diet can reduce the intensity of pain during menstruation. Women of climacteric age note the disappearance of the frequency of hot flashes, pressure drops and sweating. The product is not harmful when used during pregnancy and lactation.

For children

It is known that the immune system in childhood is underdeveloped. Imperfect functioning of the immune system leads to frequent ARVI. The benefits of birch sap are to increase the body's resistance without harm to health. Various vitamins and microelements included in the composition contribute to harmonious growth and development.

Birch sap is beneficial for children under 1 year old. To avoid allergic reactions and harm, the drink should be diluted with water. In the absence of side effects, the daily volume is gradually increased.

Is it possible to drink birch sap during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Natural medicine has a positive effect on the dynamics in the treatment of pathological conditions. During pregnancy, birch sap contributes to the disappearance of edema, the elimination of toxicosis. The product rarely causes allergic reactions and does not harm the body. That is why it can be recommended for women with breastfeeding. The benefits of the product in increasing milk production and enriching it with vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of the child.

Is birch sap good for weight loss?

Nutritionists recommend including the product in the diet for weight loss without harm to health. Vitamins and trace elements contained in the drink have a positive effect on metabolism. Metabolic processes are accelerated, and the general condition is gradually improving. Nectar gives vigor, which is especially important when playing sports. The slimming effect is ensured by eliminating edema.

If there are no allergies and pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys and diabetes mellitus, the natural medicine can be drunk in an amount of up to 2 liters. The calorie content of the drink allows it to be consumed without harm to the figure. Birch sap can replace tea or compote. Losing weight with the use of a drink will benefit the body due to the elimination of toxins from the body.

Treatment with birch sap at home

The healing properties of the product allow it to be used in the complex treatment of various diseases and pathological conditions that harm the body:

• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• disorder of the functioning of the genitourinary sphere;
• anemia;
• avitaminosis;
• disorders of the musculoskeletal system;
• overweight;
• hormonal imbalance in women and men;
• pathology of the heart and blood vessels;
• tumors of a benign and malignant nature;
• dry skin, hair and nails;
• chronic stressful condition.

Oncology

Malignant tumors are treated with conservative and surgical techniques. As part of complex therapy, a combination of birch and carrot juices, yarrow is beneficial. Components in equal parts are mixed with juices of meadowsweet, St. John's wort, hemlock.

The resulting drink is drunk one tablespoon on an empty stomach in the morning and evening. A folk remedy is recommended to be combined with milk. The benefits of the drug composition in eliminating puffiness, increasing the body's defenses, which is especially important in malignant processes.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas is a dangerous pathology that occurs in the acute and chronic phase. Birch sap has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the pancreas by cleansing the blood of toxins and toxins.

Diabetes

The benefits of birch sap for the body allows it to be used for diabetes in recommended doses. Natural medicine speeds up metabolic processes, saturates the body with the necessary substances.In order not to cause harm, you should consult a specialist before taking it.

Gout

With gout, uric acid begins to accumulate in various tissues of the body. First of all, joints are affected. The disease is more typical for men over 35 years old. Against the background of treatment, metabolic processes are regulated, the violation of which can lead to gout.

Gastritis and stomach ulcers

Chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are not a contraindication to the use of birch sap. The drink will not harm if used in moderation. With gastritis or stomach ulcers, nectar is drunk three times a day on an empty stomach, 50 grams.

Colds

The benefits of the drink justify its use for sore throats. Natural medicine is drunk warm, 3 glasses a day. Antiseptic treatment of mucous throats or rinsing with birch sap is allowed.

Nectar is prescribed for bronchitis and pneumonia. The complex of vitamins and minerals it contains enhances immunity and leads to a quick recovery.

Experts say that drinking juice at the first sign of sickness promotes a quick recovery and relieves the symptoms of the flu and colds. Birch sap is beneficial if the temperature rises to febrile units. Using a natural remedy can help prevent dehydration associated with fever.

The product helps to relieve breathing in cases of chronic rhinitis.For medicinal purposes, they drink 1 glass of juice. The combination with milk contributes to the disappearance of a lingering cough.

Varicose veins and trophic ulcers of the leg

It is known that the benefits of birch sap are manifested in cleansing, antitumor and anti-inflammatory effects. Its reception has a beneficial effect on the state of the cardiovascular system.

Varicose veins, as well as trophic ulcers on the lower leg, are treated in a complex. Birch sap has a good effect, which is drunk three times a day, after diluting it with water in a 1: 2 ratio. Reception is carried out on an empty stomach, preferably 20-30 minutes before meals.

Anemia

A reduced hemoglobin content in the blood indicates various pathologies. Birch sap contains a set of essential vitamins and minerals, one of which is iron. To treat anemia, which can be life threatening, the natural medicine is diluted with carrot, apple or beetroot juice.

Anemia regresses if you drink 50 ml of nectar on an empty stomach a quarter of an hour before a meal. The juice must be drunk for a long time.

Hypertension

The benefits of the drink for hypertension are due to its diuretic properties. Removal of excess fluid from the body is manifested by the elimination of edema and high blood pressure. Birch sap improves overall well-being. With regular use, chronic headaches and heartaches disappear.

For the liver and kidneys

Natural medicine has been proven to increase bile production. The benefits of birch sap in the elimination of toxins and substances that can harm the body. The usefulness of the product is of particular importance when working in adverse conditions.

Natural medicine has a positive effect on the process of breaking down kidney stones. If you drink the drink regularly, you can prevent the development of urolithiasis. The tool must be taken at least three months three times a day. Morning juice intake is carried out on an empty stomach, which allows you to get the maximum benefit.

Application of birch sap for face and hair

The drink is called living water and the elixir of youth due to its benefits and numerous healing properties. Cosmetologists use the juice as a beauty product for the skin, nails and hair.

Birch-based cosmetics are used for the following problems:

• brittleness, dullness and hair loss;
• dandruff;
• dryness and pallor of the skin.

To improve the appearance and condition of the hair, the agent is used to prepare masks, rinses. The juice is mixed with vodka, a decoction of burdock root is added. The resulting solution must be rubbed into the scalp. Regular use of this traditional medicine recipe will restore healthy shine, firmness and strength to your hair.

For the health of the skin of the face and décolleté, juice is used as a means of hygienic care. You can wash your face undiluted or use it as an ice wipe. The benefits of birch sap in skin whitening, in the elimination of age spots that have appeared with age under the influence of hormonal changes, as well as freckles.

A lotion has a good effect, which includes birch and lemon juice in the amount of 1 glass and 6 drops, respectively, 1 teaspoon of honey. Store in the refrigerator. The face is wiped in the morning and in the evening using a cotton pad dipped in a healing solution.

How and when to collect birch sap

The benefits of the product are directly related to compliance with the conditions for collecting and harvesting nectar. Birch sap is collected from late March to early May.To check for sap flow, you can puncture the bark with an awl. A droplet of clear liquid that comes in indicates a suitable time for collection.

When collecting juice, you should remember the rules that will protect the tree from harm:

1. Accuracy of actions when performing the incision. When collecting nectar, you cannot use an ax. It is advisable to use a drill for these purposes, which has a drill with a diameter of up to 10 mm. Such a hole will not cause harm in the form of tree death.
2. The sap needs to be collected from several trees. You can take no more than 1 liter of juice from one birch. Otherwise, the tree may weaken and die.
3. The open hole provides access for pathogenic bacteria that harm the birch. After removing the groove, be sure to close the hole, for example, with a peg plug.

The benefits of the juice of a mature tree are much greater. In addition, such a drink has the best taste. It is advisable to choose birch with a slight slope for collection.

The choice of crockery and cutting location, which is 20 cm from the ground, is essential. It is best to collect birch sap in a large plastic bottle using a groove. The vessel can be changed twice a day - in the morning and in the evening.

How to store birch sap

Making birch sap at home is a simple procedure. However, the drink has a short shelf life. To get benefits, not harm, you must drink fresh nectar. Doctors recommend using birch sap instead of water. In hot weather, as well as after intense physical activity, it quenches thirst better.

It should be remembered that a natural product is perishable. Once harvested, the juice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. You can partially preserve the healing properties of the drink by preserving, freezing or making kvass.

Birch sap is stored in a cellar at a low temperature for no more than 1 month. After the expiration date, the product may be harmful. After conservation, the beneficial properties disappear. A good alternative to a natural product is kvass, known for its tonic effect. Freezing allows you to preserve a significant part of vitamins and minerals. For ease of use, birch sap can be frozen in small portions.

Birch sap: how much can you drink per day

If there are no contraindications, up to 2 liters of a natural drink can be consumed per day. Urolithiasis, gastritis or ulcers do not require the elimination of juice from the diet. The presence of these pathologies indicates the need to reduce the amount of product consumed in order to prevent possible harm.

Juice is drunk with care during lactation. For children under one year old, it is advisable to dilute the drink with water. To avoid allergies, you must first make sure the product is tolerable and not harmful.

Homemade birch sap: drink recipes

The benefits of kvass, a syrup based on birch sap, are undeniable. There are many recipes for their preparation. Drinks are a tonic that you can drink without harm to your health.

Kvass from birch sap

Before making kvass from birch sap, you should carefully study the most successful recipes. Bread kvass and birch juice with raisins are also beneficial.

To make bread kvass you need:

1. Take 50 g of raisins and coffee beans, 0.5 cups of sugar, 2.5 liters of birch sap, 3 crusts of rye bread.
2. Roast the coffee beans, dry the crusts in the oven, rinse and dry the raisins.
3. Place the ingredients in a jar, pour in natural juice and close with a rubber glove with one puncture for several days.
4. Kvass can be poured and placed in the refrigerator after lowering the glove.

Making kvass with dark raisins includes:

1. Strain 3 liters of juice with gauze.
2. Adding 25 pieces of large raisins.
3. Fermentation of the drink in a dark place until summer.

Birch sap wine

To make wine, the following ingredients are required:

• 25 liters of birch sap;
• 5 kg of sugar;
• 200 g raisins (wine yeast);
• 10 g citric acid;
• 200 g of honey - optional.

Three days before making the wine, a raisin sourdough is made. If yeast is used, this step is missing. In a large saucepan, combine and bring the sugar, juice and citric acid to a boil. After regularly removing the foam, 20 liters of liquid should remain. After cooling, you need to add yeast, honey, and then pour into a bowl for subsequent fermentation. The hole is closed with a single puncture glove. The liquid should be placed in a dark place with a temperature of up to 25 degrees.

You can pour over the fermented birch sap after several weeks. It should take on a light shade, and the glove should deflate. Then the drink must be poured into glass bottles and placed in a cooler room for 15-20 days.

Braga on birch sap

Moonshine from birch sap can be prepared using 30 liters of birch nectar and 1 tablespoon of kefir or milk. Pour 3 liters of juice into a separate container. Boil 27 liters of nectar over low heat for several hours. After this process, 10 liters should remain. The pre-cooled liquid is mixed with 3 liters of pure juice, kefir (milk) is added and poured into a vessel for subsequent fermentation.

If there are no signs of fermentation after 2 days, it is advisable to add 300 g of pressed yeast (60 g dry). After two weeks, fermentation ends, and the mash can be distilled. Additional cleaning involves passing through birch charcoal.

Birch syrup

The product is obtained by evaporation of the liquid. Syrup benefits the body when it is added to tea, compote, water. However, it is quite difficult to find it on sale.

Birch sap: harm and contraindications

Despite its many medicinal properties, in some cases, the drink can be harmful to the body. As a rule, juice causes harm when the amount of its consumption is exceeded.

The product is not contraindicated and is not harmful for various pathologies. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys require strict adherence to the dosage. Birch sap tends to break down stones, which can cause their movement and the appearance of severe symptoms. If the recommended dose is significantly exceeded, the product is harmful.

The drink, taken in large quantities, is harmful in the form of an exacerbation of peptic ulcer and gastritis. The appearance of pain and discomfort in the upper part of the stomach is noted. Perhaps a history of stool disorder with gastroduodenitis.

It is believed that the product only rarely causes allergic reactions that can cause serious harm. As a rule, allergies are typical when there is an intolerance to birch pollen, which is rare.

Natural birch sap should be given with caution to children under the age of one year due to possible harm. It is necessary to trace the reaction of the body. That is why at first the drink is diluted with water.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of birch sap depend on its constituent substances. Natural medicine can be used for various diseases and as a preventive measure without harm to health. Contraindications usually include individual intolerance and exceeding the permitted volume.