Birch juice: composition, preparation, application
Transparent liquid released from cutor broken branches of this tree, was called birch sap. Its composition is determined by the substances contained in the plant. It flows under the influence of root pressure in the spring, before the kidneys begin to bud. From one tree you can get birch sap, the composition of which gives it medicinal properties, on average 2-3 liters per day. It is extracted by cutting the bark or cutting small branches, fixing the gutter on the place of mechanical deformation, along which the liquid will drain into the below-installed container (jar, canister).
Treatment with birch sap was made possible bysubstances contained in it. In particular, fruit sugar, more than ten kinds of organic acids, phytoncides possessing antimicrobial properties, micro- and macroelements, magnesium, calcium, potassium, manganese, copper, saponins, essential oils, betulol are among them. Also in the juice there are enzymes and tannins. It has a low calorie content, so it can be used by people who are on a diet. Considering what is birch sap, the composition of this liquid, one must not forget that it still contains vitamins, glucose, plant hormones and iron salts.
Due to the fact that after a certain period of timetime it starts to wander and acquires a cloudy white color, it is desirable to use it fresh. There are certain ways to preserve birch sap, the composition in this case, however, becomes less useful, because under the influence of oxygen and light, mineral compounds are destroyed. In particular, in a refrigerator the maximum period is two days. Long-term storage is possible if the liquid is frozen. When using preservatives, almost all useful elements are destroyed, and the juice becomes a regular sweetened water. From it you can make alcoholic beverages, for example, balm or wine from birch sap. Another option is to add two teaspoons of sugar and put it in a cold dark place.
Among the useful and medicinal properties of birch sapwe can identify a number of basic. In particular, it destroys stones in the urinary tract. Helps in the treatment of ulcers of the duodenum and stomach. It can be used for gallbladder and liver diseases. It is effective for arthritis, gout, radiculitis and rheumatism. Juice can be used for skin diseases, for cleansing blood, stimulating metabolism. Lollipops and syrups from it are used to prevent caries in children. In general, this liquid has a toning and restorative effect on the body, removes harmful substances in infectious diseases. Birch juice has regenerating and hematopoietic properties. It can be used to treat angina, tuberculosis, bronchitis, scurvy, headache, cough. In addition, there is an opinion that juice refers to preventive drugs against impotence in men. It is considered a good cosmetic means, it tones up the skin. External it is used for eczema and furunculosis, hair loss, acne, non-healing ulcers and wounds, skin pigmentation.