The Health Benefits Of Maple Sap

The Health Benefits Of Maple Sap

There are around 150 species of Maple distributed throughout the Northern hemispheres’ Temperate Forest Zone, with two-thirds populating Eastern Asia. Ten of these maple species are native to Canada, and are mostly grown westwards from Newfoundland & Labrador to the Pacific coast. These majestic trees produce fresh sap that is used to create super sweet maple syrup and maple sugar.

How Is Maple Sap Harvested?

Due to temperature fluctuations the sap in maple trees rises during late winter and early spring. The sap contains water and dissolved nutrients that travel upwards from the root, to feed the budding leaves. If a tree is wounded the sap will leak through the bark. When the sap is collected, and boiled down, it can be used to make one of nature’s finest sweeteners. During the sap’s conversion into syrup the sweetness becomes extremely concentrated.

The Benefits Of Maple Sap

100% natural maple sap contains vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, polyphenols and other health-promoting compounds. Sap from the Acer mono variety of maple tree reportedly contains an impressive mineral analysis that includes 16 times the potassium, 37 times the calcium, and almost four times the magnesium content of natural spring water. These minerals are essential for optimal bone health. Other species of maple produce sap that is loaded with nutrients that are beneficial in lowering blood pressure, supporting the body’s immune response and reducing the hangover effects of alcohol. In fact, sap from various maple trees have been shown to offer dietary antioxidants, to support osteoporosis and to prevent gastric ulcer formation.

What is Maple Water?

Maple Water is the natural sap that is extracted from the maple trees during May and June. As one of the fastest growing super-drink health crazes, the sweet water appears to have a similar nutritional breakdown to coconut water. Whilst both waters contain electrolytes, potassium and phytonutrients, Maple Water also has saponin, which helps to maintain healthy blood cholesterol levels.

Commercial brands of Maple Water include extra preservatives to prolong the shelf life of the product. The best way to enjoy this natural elixir is to purchase and consume an organic, sustainably harvested source that has no added preservatives, or to collect maple water for yourself.

5 Reasons To Give Maple Water A Taste:

1. It’s low calorie and can help weight loss management

Whilst you won’t miraculously lose 2 stone overnight, Maple Water can enhance weight loss. There are only 5 calories per 100 ml of Maple Water, which is 8 times less the calorie intake of Coconut Water.

2. It boosts the immune system

Maple Water has been medically shown to assist the immune system and to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. The flavonoids that are present in maple sap are rich in antioxidants, and can flush out toxins and excess substances in the liver and kidneys. Maple Water is also beneficial for diarrhea, constipation and kidney stones.

3. It promotes natural healing

Maple Water can help to disinfect and promote the healing of sore throats and mouth ulcers. As it is also an antiseptic it can be used to sanitize wounds.

4. It enhances sports performance

Maple Water has fewer electrolytes and less sugar than typical sports hydration drinks, and can help your muscles recover after physical training.

5. It’s a natural beauty aid

Although drinking Maple Water won’t completely cure skin conditions like acne and eczema, using a moisturizer that contains natural maple sap can help to replenish the skin cells and improve the texture of the skin. Maple Water also reportedly strengthens hair roots, prevents dandruff and minimizes hair loss when used in a shampoo or hair treatment.