The benefits of birch sap for the body, healing properties, preparation and storage. You should not drink “birch tears”

Perhaps there is no drink in our country that Russian people would treat with the same trepidation as birch sap. As soon as the drops begin to ring and the buds swell on the trees, we happily rush into the forest, where the real mystery unfolds - the spring sap flow.

It’s easy to understand that a birch tree has begun to produce sap - just make a small cut on the tree trunk and the first drops will immediately appear from under the bark. As a rule, a birch tree gives 2-3 liters of this life-giving moisture per day, although the release of sap largely depends on the age of the tree and the diameter of the trunk, on the presence of sunlight, as well as on the time of day (at night the tree “rests”, and the main sap flow occurs during middle of the day). This miraculous “forest mystery” does not last long, literally a couple of weeks, and as soon as the first leaves appear on the birch trees, the sap flow stops.

Since childhood, we have loved birch sap for its consistently pleasant taste. But as we grow up, we begin to appreciate this natural gift for the incredible benefits it gives each of us. And to remind you of this once again, in this article we will talk about the healing power of this drink, reveal the most valuable recipes with it, and figure out the benefits and harms of birch sap.

To fully understand what a natural storehouse this nutritious moisture is, let’s consider its chemical composition. Birch sap is truly unique, because it contains the vitamins the body needs (C, B1 and B12), minerals (sodium and nickel, magnesium and iron, manganese and potassium), tannins and acids, fructose and essential oils, saponins and phytoncides, and also a unique organic compound called betulin, which is called the “death cure”. Is it any wonder that such a drink, which the beautiful birch trees give us, has a healing effect on the body.

What are the benefits of birch sap?

We can talk for a long time about the benefits of this unique juice. Since time immemorial, our ancestors have used birch sap as a natural immunostimulant, which perfectly restored strength and helped strengthen the body after illnesses. Modern research fully confirms the guesses of past generations. According to them, if you drink a glass of juice a day for 2-3 weeks, you can help the body cope with depression, eliminate weakness, absent-mindedness, fatigue, and again feel like a cheerful, full of energy person. Birch sap has diuretic, anthelmintic, and antitumor effects.

However, such juice is useful not only for general strengthening of the body. This is a real natural healer, thanks to which you can prevent and treat existing diseases. Here are some examples of the most effective uses of this drink.

1. Gastrointestinal diseases

Birch sap is a real salvation for people suffering from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. This life-giving moisture perfectly relieves spasms and colic in the stomach, cleanses the liver and gall bladder. Moreover, when ingested, birch sap eliminates inflammatory processes and relieves pain, improves appetite and restores intestinal microflora.

2. Pathologies of the urinary system

It must be said that birch sap is famous for its diuretic properties, thanks to which it is considered one of the best folk remedies for eliminating bladder stones. To combat this disease, healers advise drinking fresh juice 6 glasses a day. In this case, the stones will break up and leave the body with minimal pain.

3. Rheumatic diseases

Not many people know that fresh juice is an effective way to relieve pain from rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Moreover, this life-giving moisture perfectly cleanses blood vessels from cholesterol plaques, preventing the development of atherosclerosis. This drink is also used externally. To do this, just warm it up a little and use it in the form of compresses, applying it to sore joints.

4. Respiratory diseases

As we mentioned above, the juice in question has a general strengthening effect, and also has an expectorant effect, which means it can be used for bronchitis, pneumonia, and even in the case of tuberculosis.

5. Diabetes mellitus

Birch sap is also prescribed to “diabetics,” although in this case it must be taken in combination with other medications and while following a strict diet. For this purpose, a medicinal drink is prepared, which contains 70% birch sap (infused for two days), and 30% juices of blackberries and currants, blueberries and raspberries, taken in equal proportions. Only a qualified doctor has the right to prescribe the dosage and duration of medication. Let’s just say that treatment of diabetes mellitus with herbal medicines must be carried out under medical supervision with regular laboratory tests.

6. Losing weight

Recently, birch sap can often be found in diets aimed at losing weight. This drink really helps get rid of fat deposits, since it itself is a low-calorie product that has a large range of useful substances, and also improves metabolism in the body, speeding up metabolism.

7. Anemia

Such a serious problem as anemia (or anemia) can be perfectly eliminated with the combined intake of birch sap and iron supplements. Practice shows that it is enough to drink two or three glasses of juice daily so that after 2 weeks you will forget about the unpleasant symptoms of this disease.

8. Intoxication of the body

We have already mentioned the diuretic properties of birch sap, which, in addition to solving problems of the excretory system, help the kidneys cleanse the body of waste and toxins. Due to this, birch sap is recommended to drink in case of food poisoning, as well as intoxication with heavy metal salts. In this regard, for residents of contaminated areas of our country, there is simply no better drink than sap taken from a birch tree.

9. Colds

But this natural wealth not only cleanses the blood. It increases sweating, thereby reducing high fever (if used together with rosehip and lemon juice). Having these properties, birch sap is ideal for treating colds, as well as for preventing respiratory diseases and flu.

10. Vitamin deficiency

It must be said that valuable birch sap contains all the variety of chemical elements, which means this drink is ideal for preventing spring vitamin deficiency and combating existing deficiencies of vitamins and minerals.

Finally, let's say that in addition to internal use, birch sap is also used externally. They can be used to gargle, nose or mouth (in case of gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease and other diseases of the oral cavity).

Birch sap in cosmetology

Hair strengthening

Healing forest moisture perfectly strengthens hair follicles, fights the cause of dandruff and eliminates excess sebum on the head. To do this, simply rub fresh juice into your hair and skin. You can also prepare hair masks from this liquid; just add castor oil and honey to it in a ratio of 5:1:1.

Also, to prevent hair loss, make it silky and shiny, significantly improve the structure, and remove dandruff, the hair is washed with birch sap for 2 weeks and rinsed with infusion of birch leaves.

Skin problems

Birch sap is no less effective in the case of neurodermatitis and psoriasis, eczema and ulcerative lesions. In this case, lotions with a slightly warmed drink will help. The same is done in the presence of non-healing wounds. If you are faced with acne, suffer from scabies, or cannot get rid of age spots, wipe your skin with the juice in question every morning and evening. And in parallel with external use, be sure to take birch sap internally, because this is an excellent remedy that will fight skin diseases “from the inside.”

Anti-aging skin

To maximize the youthfulness of your skin, you need to prepare birch ice. Just freeze the liquid in small square molds and wipe your face and décolleté with these ice cubes every day.

Nourishing facial mask

First, wipe your face with a cotton swab containing vegetable oil. Then you need to mix two tablespoons of birch sap, one tablespoon of sour cream, one teaspoon of honey, mix thoroughly, apply to the skin and leave for 15 minutes. Then rinse the mixture with boiled water, the effect will pleasantly surprise you.

How to take birch sap

Despite its apparent harmlessness, birch sap should be taken for medicinal purposes only after consultation with a specialist. However, if any side effects occur (such as digestive problems or allergic reactions), treatment with this drug should be stopped immediately.

For all diseases for which the individual dosage of birch sap is not indicated, a “universal” dosage should be used, namely 3 glasses/day. Some recipes require diluting the juice before use, for example, in the case of diabetes or exacerbation of chronic diseases. For prevention purposes, birch sap should be drunk one glass at a time, but for a long time. Treatment courses are shorter in duration, but the dosage in this case is higher, and a break is required between courses. More specific dates and dosages are prescribed by the attending physician, depending on the existing ailment.

Who is this juice contraindicated for?

It must be said that birch sap has practically no contraindications for use. Of course, you should not drink it if there is an exacerbation of stomach and duodenal ulcers. Acute urolithiasis is also a contraindication to taking this drink, as it can worsen the patient’s already poor condition. Finally, people with an allergy to birch sap should refrain from drinking this drink.

Useful "tricks" when collecting juice

Those who go to extract forest food resources (that is what juice is called according to the law) should know that it is better to start collecting it from the southern part of the forest, gradually moving deeper. It is better to make cuts on the tree from the north side, this will allow you to get more juice. An incision is made on the trunk at a level of 50 cm from the ground. Moreover, there is no need to make too deep a cut or drill deeply into the trunk - moisture moves between the wood and the bark, which means that to get it, you just need to overcome the bark layer.

Finally, remember that when collecting sap, you damage the trees, and therefore, after collecting this valuable liquid, the incision must be covered with laundry soap, wax or garden varnish to prevent rotting and damage to the wood.

How to store birch sap

It is better to collect raw birch directly into glass containers. But even if you collect the juice in plastic bottles or plastic bags, when you return home it should be poured into glass containers. Without processing, extracted birch sap can remain in the refrigerator for no more than three days, because then he begins to wander. This means you need to figure out how to store it so you can drink it several months from now. The best solution would be to can the sap or make delicious birch kvass.

How to roll up birch sap for the winter

Canned birch sap without sugar

The easiest way to preserve the drink is to filter all the collected liquid (passing it through several layers of gauze), pour it into an enamel pan and heat it to 80-90°. The heated juice is poured into washed and sterilized jars and immediately sealed. The rolled up jars are wrapped in a warm blanket and left to cool completely. It is advisable to store it in a cool place.

Canned birch sap with sugar

If you want to get a sweet birch drink, then, as in the previous recipe, filter the valuable liquid and put it on the fire. As soon as the juice approaches the boiling point, a yellowish foam will appear on its surface. Remove it and remove the juice from the stove without bringing it to a boil. Add 2 tbsp to the hot liquid. sugar for every kilogram of juice and citric acid (at the tip of a knife). Pour the juice into sterilized jars and roll up the lids, wrapping the jars until they cool completely.

By the way, when rolling up birch sap, you can experiment by adding oranges, lemons, currants, rose hips or mint sprigs. And also, birch sap makes excellent birch kvass (perfectly cooling in the summer heat).

Birch kvass

To prepare real kvass from birch sap, you first need to strain the collected sap and let it steep for a day in an enamel bowl. After this, add 100 g of rye crackers and 50 ml of sugar (for every 1 liter of juice) to the liquid and, pouring the mixture into a glass bottle, leave it for 4-5 days, after putting a rubber glove on the neck. The glove will inflate and stand up, which will indicate the ongoing fermentation process. And when the gauntlet falls, you can safely filter the kvass and bottle it. Delicious refreshing kvass is ready!

This also opens up a real field for experimentation, because kvass based on birch sap can be prepared not only with bread, but also with barley, raisins and dried fruits. Each drink will have an individual taste, but they will all benefit the body.

From now on, you know the benefits and harms of birch sap, and you also have unique recipes for canning and making kvass based on it. This means that you have another opportunity to strengthen your body and fight a wide variety of diseases with the help of a very tasty drink.

Birch is not just a symbol of the Russian people, but also a source of a very healing product. (the benefits and harms of the product have been proven), which is also commonly called berezovitsa, is a unique drink in composition that is priceless for humans.

Main components of the drink

The composition of this product is truly unique. Among other things, you can find various types of sugar, such as fructose, glucose and sucrose, all kinds of organic acids, enzymes, as well as substances whose main action is aimed at fighting microbes (phytoncides). In addition, birch sap, the benefits and harms are beyond doubt, is rich in mineral elements that are so necessary for the human body in the spring. That is why drinking this drink will be an excellent prevention of hypovitaminosis. Berezovitsa will replenish your body with the following elements:

• potassium (essential for muscle strength and nervous system health);
• calcium (keeps bones healthy);
• sodium (supports kidney function);
• magnesium (participates in the absorption of glucose and energy production);
• copper (takes part in hematopoiesis);
• iron (element deficiency can lead to anemia);
• manganese (very necessary for the organic development of the human skeleton).

Another feature of birch sap is the fact that it is completely free of fats and proteins, and the amount of carbohydrates is usually about 3 g.

Useful properties of birch tree

The benefits of birch sap are really great, because it contains so many different substances that are extremely necessary for our body. This includes vitamin C and various essential oils. You can safely drink it on hot days, as it can invigorate you and quench your thirst, and also easily replenish the supply of mineral salts, which are lost in large quantities during profuse sweating.

Along with all the listed components, birch sap contains special substances that make it stand out from its analogues. These substances are saponins. It is thanks to the presence of these components that birch tree has a beneficial effect on the body and cures many diseases.

Treatment with birch sap

1. Useful for various types of throat diseases, in particular for sore throat and cough. For treatment, you need to drink slightly warmed birch sap. The benefits and harms (you can find out how to store them further in the article) are not equal. Pre-mix it with some milk and starch. It is better to drink this medicine every day, so you will get more benefits until you become healthy.
2. Indispensable for disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, as it is able to stimulate the secretion of the required amount of gastric juice, as well as enzymes that are required for the digestion process to proceed normally. If you have problems with stool, birch sap will definitely help solve them.
3. An excellent product for oral care. If you suffer from inflammation or tooth decay, simply use birch sap as a rinse. There is no need to spit it out; keep it in your mouth for a bit before swallowing the portion. It stands out favorably against the background of fruit juices, since it can only have a positive effect on tooth enamel.
4. Birch sap will replace many medications intended to relieve head pain.
5. For symptoms of colds, in particular, a runny nose, birch sap should be drunk in the amount of one glass daily. The anti-inflammatory compounds that are part of the drink will perfectly cope with any cold, and they will do it very quickly.
6. The kidneys will also thank you for drinking birch sap. Swelling, stones and sand will be completely defeated by this drink. However, there are some rules for use: before direct use, a mandatory recommendation from the attending physician is required, since the folk remedy is a diuretic. Maybe if you drink birch sap, there are benefits and harms. How to take it so as not to harm yourself? Firstly, no longer than two weeks, every day. Secondly, you need to drink about 3 glasses of the drink.
7. Even damage to the skin can be healed by birch sap (the benefits and harm are incomplete). It is enough to treat any wounds, ulcers and abrasions with fresh liquid that does not need to be diluted. And if you use it internally, you can forget about eczema, lichen and boils forever.
8. At elevated temperatures, the following composition will help: birch sap, sugar, wine and crushed lemon. Infuse this mixture in a dark place for three months, and then use it as an antipyretic.
9. Spring depression will definitely subside if you take a glass of juice every day for two weeks.
10. To cleanse the body, you need to include 200 ml of juice in your diet before breakfast. The course of treatment usually lasts about 4-6 weeks.
11. And also, this drink is simply a miraculous dietary dish. It contains neither fats nor proteins, which is why it should be in your diet if you carefully monitor your figure.

It is easier to prevent any disease than to treat it later. And birch sap is simply a wonderful preventive remedy. For a month, drink one glass of drink a day - and you will not be afraid of any diseases.

Despite the high glucose content in the composition, people registered with an endocrinologist can also drink birch sap. The benefits and harms of diabetes are not the same. For consumption, diabetics need to boil oat straw, which was collected during flowering, in the juice for 30 minutes (the proportion of straw to juice is 1:3). Take this decoction before meals in an amount of 100 ml.

Everyone can drink birch sap. The benefits and harms for children are not equal.

Pregnancy is the best period in a woman's life

Many people ask the question: “Can pregnant women drink birch sap?” The benefits and harms for pregnant women are obvious. The drink is recommended for consumption only if the woman does not suffer from various allergic reactions to this product. Otherwise it is better to refuse it.

Birch sap is very useful for pregnant women, as it can alleviate severe toxicosis. The amount of drink should be sometimes about 2 liters per day, the course of treatment lasts 3-4 weeks until the signs of toxicosis completely disappear. However, you should not abuse it due to the high glucose content.

High or low blood pressure during pregnancy can also be treated by drinking half a glass of juice up to three times a day. Along with the normalization of pressure, you will feel that the swelling will go away.

After giving birth, with its help you can increase lactation, and your baby will never be hungry. However, juice should be consumed with extreme caution.

Application in cosmetology

Birch sap can be used for hair and skin care. If you periodically rinse your hair with it, you can prevent dandruff. And in combination with cognac and a decoction of burdock root, the juice will relieve you of hair loss. This composition should be applied to the hair, left on it for 15-20 minutes and rinsed with warm water.

Birch nectar is considered an excellent remedy for skin rejuvenation and for its nutrition.

If you are tormented by acne, use a special mask. Mix egg white, birch bark and honey. As a preventative measure, it is enough to lubricate your face with undiluted juice or ice cubes from it.

A mask made from birch sap (2 tbsp), sprouted wheat (50 g) and sea buckthorn, which needs to be wiped (200 g), will help get rid of small wrinkles. For those with dry skin, the following composition is suitable: juice and honey in equal quantities.

Contraindications for use

Despite all the beneficial properties, birch sap can also cause some harm. If you are a lover of tasty drinks that are also healthy at the same time, you can drink birch sap without restrictions. The benefits and harms of this drink are unequal.

The main contraindications are:

• stomach ulcer;
• allergy to tree pollen, in particular birch catkin pollen;
• stones in the kidneys.

In addition, you should not consume juice that was collected in close proximity to highways, or that has expired.

Product collection rules

The optimal period when you can collect birch sap is the beginning of March. It is worth considering that one tree can produce about 3 liters of juice, in rare cases - about 7 liters.

First you need to determine whether a particular tree has sap. To do this, just use an awl to make a small hole in the bark. If after these steps you see a drop released, you can safely begin collecting nectar.

You need to choose only mature trees whose crown is quite well developed. It is advisable to drill a hole on the south side at a distance of 50 cm from the ground. The drill should be pointing downwards. After this, you need to insert a groove into the hole. It is along it that the juice will flow into the left container. To maintain the life of the plant, it is recommended to collect no more than 1 liter of liquid per day.

How to store?

Freshly collected juice can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. It is also canned. Can be obtained by drinking canned birch sap, benefits and harms. Recipes will help eliminate contraindications. The liquid must be heated, then poured into sterilized jars and tightly closed, using a special preservation key for this purpose.

Another way to store juice is to freeze it. All nutrients will be preserved.

Do you know that birch sap is very healthy and you can drink it? From mid-March to early May, in the vast expanses of Russian forests, the gentle rays of the sun awaken to life the main natural symbol of the country - the birch tree: sap begins to flow from the roots of the tree up the entire crown. Travel times depend on the region and weather conditions. In Siberia, in the North-West of the country, and even in the central zone now, in the second half of April, is the best time to drinkBirch juice- a storehouse of useful vitamins, micro-macroelements and amino acids.

Birch sap, is it possible to take it from the birch tree?

I foresee a question from ecologists or people who are jealous of nature: why collect birch sap, thereby harming the tree? I am also against industrial sap collection and careless, sometimes barbaric treatment of trees, leading to their death.

However, an adult birch tree can produce from 1 liter to 3 liters (no more than 1 liter per day) of sap without harming its health. These are like donors who donate a portion of blood for the benefit of human life and for their own renewal of the body. Often the white-trunks themselves cry, losing drops of juice that are transparent, like tears, because remember:

“Juice appears on the white trunks -

Now the birches are crying, now the birches are crying...”

Today, birch sap is classified as a biologically pure product that has benefits and its cost exceeds 100 rubles. for 1 liter. Exotic or unique benefit? Let's see why the juice of white-trunked beauties is so rich.

Composition of birch sap

Birch juice- a physiological solution that nourishes the tree and promotes the formation of foliage and ensures its life. And it is already clear that this will be a useful composition not only for wood, but also for humans, and it will also taste good. It does not have a pronounced taste; it is a cool, slightly sweetish liquid with a slight sourness, reminiscent of spring water.

Birch sap contains the following components:

• Proteins;
• , the same one that is found mainly only in animal products. This is precisely what makes birch sap especially useful.
• Organic acids, enzymes, aromatics, tannins that improve metabolism and help eliminate carcinogens and toxins. Phytoelement saponin in juice reduces .
• Fruit sugars.
• Microelements and their salts: potassium, magnesium, sodium, copper, manganese. The juice is especially rich in potassium, which blocks sodium, reducing swelling and improving the functioning of the heart muscle.

There is an opinion that in its composition birch is close to, the benefits of which have already been discussed.

Birch sap: benefits

1. The juice perfectly replenishes the balance of vitamins in the body and resists.
2. Strengthens, reducing risk.
3. The juice regulates the acidity of gastric juice, therefore it is prescribed to patients with gastritis with low acidity. It has a rare ability to scar the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines caused by ulcers.
4. Strengthens metabolic processes in the body, relieves depression.
5. It cleanses the blood, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys well, eliminates waste and toxins, relieves swelling, and is a natural diuretic.
6. Birch sap is recommended for sore throat, bronchitis, and pneumonia. You can just gargle with it
7. Birch elixir is used in the treatment of joint diseases, arthritis, arthrosis, and salt deposits.
8. Helps with furunculosis, neurodermatitis, eczema, and other skin and hair problems.
9. Thanks to low calorie, V 100 grams only 25 kcal with great benefits, it is used in diets for weight loss.
10. The juice is useful for women during menopause, as it lowers blood pressure and alleviates the symptoms of this period. Eliminates fatigue, lethargy and gives strength.
11. It occupies a leading position in cosmetology: it is added to creams, masks, and lotions. Rubs into hair.

When to collect birch sap

Birch sap usually begins to be extracted after the vernal equinox (March 21) immediately after the snow melts. It all depends on the weather, the tree senses it subtly. The beginning of the movement of juice can be checked by making a light cut along the trunk. If there is juice, a drop of it will immediately appear. So, we can start collecting. When choosing a location, it is important to consider the following points:

• The most useful is considered to be clear juice collected in the middle of the sap flow period. As the buds open, the juice becomes cloudy and bitter and can no longer be consumed.
• They collect birch sap far from the city so that there is no highway nearby, otherwise the sap will be of no use.
• It is better to choose a birch tree on a hill, in the depths of the forest, where it wakes up a little later, such sap is sweeter.
• The tree must be mature, with a trunk at least 20 cm thick and thick bark. But it is better to neglect trees that are too old; the sap in them is also bitter and almost tasteless.
• The collection is carried out in clear sunny weather, then the best movement of the juice. In the dark, the movement stops and the tree also falls asleep.

How to collect birch sap correctly without harming the tree

It is important to collect birch sap correctly so as not to harm the tree and at the same time obtain the sap in full volume

1. At a height of about 1 meter, a hole is made with a sharp knife or drill with a diameter of 5-8 ml. Under no circumstances should you cut the bark with an ax or make large cuts - this can destroy the tree! Do not make more than 3 holes in one trunk.
2. The sap flows between the bark and the wood, so there is no need to drill deep, just pierce the bark layer.
3. Insert a plastic juice tube, a wooden stick, a metal tube in the form of a drain into the hole, securing a thick thread or rope at the end, or you can use a medical dropper, remove the needle from it and insert the spout into the hole. The juice will begin to flow down them into a plastic bottle or glass jar.
4. The volume of sap should not exceed more than a liter per day - the same amount that birch can restore without loss. It is better to use several trees.
5. Do not forget to cover the hole in the tree with clay after the end of collection, plug it with grass, a stick or garden pitch, taking it with you in advance.

If you went to the forest and did not take with you any equipment for collecting birch sap, you can cut a branch and hang a bottle on a twig, the sap will flow down it. You can hang several bottles on several branches at once like this:

How to take birch sap for health benefits

It is better to drink juice fresh, it contains more vitamins and nutrients. Fresh juice is stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days. You can preserve the juice, but as you understand, all its benefits end there. But it’s better to freeze the juice, this way it retains its properties better.

You can drink it with milk, making cocktails with the addition of citrus juice or mint leaves. But I think it’s best to drink the juice neat, enjoying its clear moisture.

How to store birch sap

It is better to drink the juice immediately when you receive it. If you can’t get it often, you can stock up for future use and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This juice is the healthiest. If there is a lot of juice, you need to think about how to store it.

Freezing juice in the freezer

The most convenient and reliable way to store birch sap is to turn it into ice. And this method helps preserve all the beneficial substances. So feel free to pour the juice into molds and put it in the freezer; as needed, you can take out the mold, melt it and drink it.

Canning birch sap

You can preserve birch sap in glass jars, but the process requires heating the sap to the boiling point, at which most vitamins are killed. Of course, some of the benefits of the juice remain, so this method is acceptable, but you should know that it will no longer retain all the benefits of the juice.

Heat the juice to a temperature of 80 degrees and pour it into clean, sterile, preheated glass jars and close with a sterilized metal lid. We wrap the jars with a warm blanket and leave them like this for 6-8 hours. Then we cool the jars and put them in a cold room or refrigerator. This way we preserve all the beneficial properties of birch sap.

Birch sap: harm

• those suffering from pollen allergies,
• urolithiasis,
• stomach ulcer during an exacerbation.

Birch sap treatment recipes

Treatment with birch sap is quite affordable and enjoyable. Birch sap helps:

At chronic For sore throat, drink 1 glass of fresh birch sap every morning.

For coughs, it is good to take birch sap half diluted with warm milk.

Man, as a piece of nature, always seeks support among its gifts, and nature generously shares its riches and healing powers with us. One of the valuable gifts of nature is birch sap, the benefits of which for metabolism and the health of the human body are enormous. In this article we will look at not only the healing powers and uses of this nectar, but also how to collect it from trees.

Chemical composition of birch sap

The beneficial properties of any medicinal product are determined by its composition. Birch sap, the composition of which is characterized by a wealth of biologically active components, has a beneficial effect on almost all organs and systems of the human body. Let us list the main beneficial substances of the beautiful birch nectar:

• Carbohydrates– fruit sugars, and the amount of glucose is insignificant. Fructose promotes the breakdown of simple carbohydrates.
• Phytoncides– suppress the growth of protozoa, fungi, bacteria, destroying them.
• Organic acids– a group of carboxylic acids (formic, oxalic, citric, etc.), which play a huge role in cellular metabolism and almost all redox reactions of the body.
• Essential oils– volatile substances that are stimulants of metabolic processes and have a pronounced antibacterial effect.
• Minerals and trace elements(descending) – potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, aluminum, manganese, iron, silicon, titanium, copper and nickel.
• Tannins– have an anti-inflammatory effect on the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, control the secretory function of the entire gastrointestinal tract.
• Saponins– are adaptogenic substances, regulate mineral and water-salt metabolism, stimulate the activity of hormones and enzymes.
• Vitamins– biological stimulants of life.

Birch sap or birch tree is a clear liquid flowing from the trunks or branches of a tree under the influence of root pressure, sweetish in taste and with a pleasant, recognizable aftertaste. Having studied the composition of this healing liquid, there is no question as to why birch sap is useful. It’s safe to say that birch tree is a real elixir of longevity!

• Numerous clinical trials have shown that by drinking just one glass of drink a day for 3-4 weeks, a person feels a surge of energy and gets rid of depression and chronic fatigue. It is appropriate to say that birchberry is an excellent natural adaptogen.
• Significantly strengthens the immune system and resistance to infectious and viral diseases, therefore birch nectar should be drunk for acute and chronic diseases.
• Berezovica cleanses the blood and is indicated for allergic diseases. This beneficial property helps to effectively treat intoxication conditions in the body.
• It has a pronounced expectorant effect, therefore it is useful for bronchitis and asthma.
• It is useful to drink birch sap for stomach ulcers and diseases of the duodenum - due to the tannins contained in the nectar with antiseptic properties. It is also necessary to drink it to stimulate the production of enzymes and gastric secretions, which helps food to be digested well.

• Fructose and glucose stimulate brain activity, so during periods of significant mental stress, consuming birch nectar is simply necessary!
• For women, birch tree helps a lot during menopausal changes in the body, and for men it returns masculine strength.
• Is birch sap good for weight loss? Certainly! Excess weight often indicates a disturbed metabolism, and birch tree not only normalizes metabolism, but also, if it slows down, can speed it up. Birch nectar is also indicated for diabetes mellitus as a supportive multivitamin drink.
• Regular consumption of the medicinal drink is recommended for cancer patients. Many healers talk about the high antitumor properties of this gift of nature, so its daily use slows down the development of this terrible disease.
• Berezovitsa is a natural cosmetic product that can be effectively used for acne, blackheads and comedones, active sebaceous glands, premature aging of the skin, dandruff and hair loss. Birch nectar is also used externally for furunculosis, neurodermatitis and eczema.

Birch sap can be drunk both in pure form and as part of blended drinks. Treatment with nectar is usually long-term and requires adherence to recipes and dosages. Universal daily dosage: 1 glass on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before meals, three times a day.

The dangers of birch sap can only be discussed in the context of individual intolerance to any of its constituent substances. It should also be noted that without following dosages, any product can become poisonous and harm human health.

Birch sap, the benefits and harms of which are no longer in doubt, would be a very good idea to add to your daily diet. Where can you get so much of this valuable drink, you ask? Don’t miss the nectar collection season and be able to preserve the harvest!

When and how to collect birch sap

You can accurately determine the time of collection of this gift of birch trees based on weather conditions. Typically, active sap flow begins during the initial period of the March thaw and ends with the appearance of young leaves - approximately in mid-April. One tree can produce up to 5-10 liters per day.

It is better to choose a birch tree with a developed crown and a trunk diameter of at least 20 cm. Next, at a height of 20-50 cm from the ground, a small hole up to 2 cm deep is made in the trunk and a groove is inserted into it for the directed outflow of nectar. Under the tree, in the direction of flow of liquid, place a container into which the harvest flows.

Having learned so many details about the beneficial properties of birch sap, you will begin to collect it every year in places accessible to you. The rich chemical composition of birch tree will help you and your family members maintain and increase health and beauty.

Everyone is already accustomed to the fact that you can drink orange, peach, apple, and grape juice. Have you ever heard about birch or at least remember the words of the song - I drank birch sap in a birch forest? You may have even tried it, especially if you have ever lived or just visited a village. Have you ever wondered what benefits and harms birch sap has? Let's figure it out.

It is known that this drink has been consumed by people for a very long time. It is most common in Russia, although it should be noted that other countries are beginning to take a closer look at this drink. Previously, in the USSR, birch sap was easy to buy in almost every store. These days this is no longer the case. And young people no longer even know what this drink tastes like.

In general, this type of juice is a liquid that appears clear. It is released from its trunk under the influence of root pressure from the tree. In order to taste it, you need to cut or break the bark a little, and insert a small tube into the resulting gap - the juice will flow down it. And of course you need to prepare a jar, bottle or other container that you want to fill. After this entire procedure, the collection site should be sealed with wax so as not to harm the tree.

This drink can be collected from April to May (until the middle).

It tastes very fresh, with a slight sweet aftertaste. At the same time, it quenches thirst very well. Birch sap contains a lot of vitamin C, minerals and tannins, as well as essential oils.

The benefits of birch sap

What are the benefits of birch sap? Here it is worth saying that due to the high content of useful substances in birch sap, it generally has a beneficial and healing effect on the body. In addition, it is also taken as a medicine.

For example, if you are tormented by a cough, then you need to drink warmed birch sap, after mixing it with starch and milk. You should drink this drink every day, 1 glass, until the cough goes away.

If you have a runny nose, and especially if it is chronic, you need to drink a glass of birch liquid every day. This will help get rid of it in a short time, or at least alleviate it.

Do you have minor problems with your gastrointestinal tract? Then just drink this juice more often. After all, it stimulates the secretion of gastric juice and generally has a beneficial effect on digestion. It relieves constipation and brings stool back to normal. And if you have any inflammation in the oral cavity, you can rinse it with juice.

Birch sap helps in the fight against edema that appears due to sand or stones in the gall bladder or kidneys, as well as in general when the functioning of the kidneys is impaired. The fact is that it has a diuretic property. But if you have one of the diseases mentioned, you can only be treated with this drink after consulting a doctor.

If you have abrasions, ulcers or other wounds that have not healed for a long time, then try treating them with undiluted birch sap. It will help tighten them.

Birch sap also helps alleviate spring depression and cope with vitamin deficiency. To do this, drink a glass of this drink every day for 2 weeks.

By the way, if you are watching your figure, then you will like this drink. After all, it contains neither fats nor proteins. It consists entirely of carbohydrates, and its calorie content is extremely low. Moreover, this liquid has high nutritional value. Therefore, it is recommended to drink it if you have already lost some weight and now this process has stopped.

In addition to medicinal properties, birch sap also has cosmetic properties. So, you can rinse your hair with it. This will help restore the water balance in the scalp, thereby helping to strengthen the hair structure and also prevent dandruff. If you suffer from active hair loss, then make a mask from this drink, adding to it a decoction of burdock root and a little cognac. This mixture should be applied for half an hour, then rinsed with water at a comfortable temperature for you.

The drink also helps to rejuvenate and nourish the skin of the face or body. For example, you can use it to get rid of acne. To do this, you need to make a mask of juice, honey and egg white once a week. If you do not suffer from acne, you can use birch liquid for prevention: just wipe your face with it in the mornings and evenings.

Harm and contraindications

If there can be any harm from birch sap, then it will definitely be weak. That is why people of any age and even pregnant women and nursing mothers are allowed to drink it.

But still there are contraindications. For example, if you are allergic to pollen from birch catkins. By the way, this drink can cause allergies extremely rarely (except for the already mentioned case), unlike the same orange one. But various types of irritation and rashes may appear on the skin.

Also, you should not drink it if you have a stomach ulcer. It is better to limit your juice intake if you take antidepressants or other medications in large quantities, smoke or drink.

How and where the drink was collected has a big impact. We have already described above how to collect birch sap. If you really want to get the beneficial properties from this drink, then you should not collect it near roads and factories. Otherwise, it will contain heavy metals in large quantities. By drinking such juice, you will not only not get any healing effect, but you can cause serious harm and get poisoned.