Birch juice (also known as birch sap or birch tree water) is extracted from birch trees. In Finland, Sweden and Norway, it is generally used as a refreshing and hydrating drink. However, in Korea, birch tree sap is mainly used in skincare products (moisturizers, toners, and serums) for its hydrating and nourishing properties.
Overall, birch juice has many health benefits such as hydration and anti-inflammatory properties. This is due to its highly nutritious content, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
1. Hydrating properties
When applied topically, birch sap helps to hydrate the skin by increasing its water content. Indeed, birch sap contains a complex mix of sugars and amino acids that help to attract and retain moisture in the skin. Thus, it can help to give you a more plumped up looking skin, with an improved appearance of its texture and appearance.Birch sap in skincare is generally used through toners and essences. After cleaning the skin, toners and essences are typically applied to prepare the skin for further hydration. Birch sap toners and essences are lightweight and easily absorbed into the skin. They provide an instant boost of hydration and leave the skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed.
2. Anti-aging properties
2.1. Stimulating collagen production:
Birch sap contains betulinic acid, a triterpenoid compound that has been shown (1) to stimulate the production of collagen in the skin. Collagen is a protein that gives the skin its elasticity and firmness. As we age, the production of collagen decreases, which leads to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. By stimulating collagen production, birch sap can help to improve skin firmness, elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Lee, J., Lee, H., Lee, K., Kim, H., & Cho, S. (2015). Betulinic acid prevents UVB-induced collagen destruction in human dermal fibroblasts via inhibiting ROS production. Biochemical and biophysical research communications, 464(2), 573-578.
2.2. protects against free radicals
Birch juice contains antioxidants (such as vitamin C, polyphenols, flavonoids and betulinic acid) which help to protect the skin against free radicals.
Free radicals are unstable molecules that are generated by exposure to UV radiation, pollution, and other environmental stressors. These molecules can damage skin cells, leading to premature aging and other skin issues.
Birch sap protects the skin against free radicals by providing it with antioxidants, such as vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids. These compounds work together to neutralize free radicals and prevent them from causing damage to the skin.
3. Antioxidant properties
Birch sap contain antioxidants such as vitamin C, polyphenols, flavonoids and betulinic acid. Antioxidants are molecules that help to neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and lead to premature aging.
Birch sap can also help to protect the skin against oxidative damage, which can lead to premature aging and other skin issues.
Overall, the antioxidant properties of birch sap can provide numerous benefits for the skin. By neutralizing free radicals and protecting against oxidative damage, birch sap can help to keep the skin looking youthful and radiant.
4. Anti-inflammatory properties
One of the key components of birch juice is betulin, a triterpenoid compound that has been shown (2) to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Betulin works by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that trigger inflammation in the skin. By reducing the production of these cytokines, birch juice can help to calm inflamed skin and prevent further damage.
Birch juice also contains salicylates, which are natural compounds that have similar anti-inflammatory properties to aspirin. Salicylates can help to reduce redness and swelling in the skin, making birch juice an effective treatment for conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
To use birch juice for its anti-inflammatory properties, it can be applied topically to the skin. It is gentle enough to use on sensitive skin and can be used as a toner, moisturizer, or mask. Birch juice can also be consumed orally as a supplement to help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
In conclusion, birch juice is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can help to soothe and heal irritated skin. Its unique combination of betulin, salicylates, antioxidants, and essential nutrients make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their skin health naturally.
- “Anti-inflammatory effects of betulinic acid isolated from the bark of white birch (Betula platyphylla var. japonica)” published in the Journal of Oleo Science in 2016.
5. Brightening properties
Birch juice contains betulinic acid, a natural compound that can hel to inhibit the production of melanin (melanin, being the pigment that gives skin its color, and when produced in excess it can lead to dark spots and hyperpigmentation issues), thus leading to a reduction of the appearance of hyperpigmentation issues (such as dark spots) and promoting an overall brighter complexion.
6. Promotes cell turnover
Birch juice contains natural acids (such as malic acid and citric acid) which can help to naturally exfoliate the skin and promote cell turnover.
7. Protects against UV radiation
Birch juice naturally contains antioxidants such as vitamin C, flavonoids and phenolic compounds that help to neutralize free radicals. When the skin is exposed to UV radiation, free radicals are generated, which can lead to DNA damage and accelerated aging. The antioxidants in birch juice can help to prevent this damage and protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Additionally, birch juice contains betulinic acid, The researchers found (3) that betulinic acid was able to protect the cells from UV-induced damage and inflammation, which are both factors that contribute to skin aging and cancer.
- Another study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research in 2018 investigated the photoprotective effects of betulinic acid on human skin cells.
8. Easily absorbed to the skin
Birch juice has a low molecular weight, which means that its molecules are small enough to penetrate the outer layer (stratum corneum) of the skin. Once it penetrates the stratum corneum, birch juice can then be absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin, where it can provide nourishment and hydration.
Another reason why birch juice is easily absorbed is because it contains a variety of natural sugars, amino acids, and minerals that are easily recognized by the skin. These components are similar to those found naturally in the skin, which means that the skin can easily absorb and utilize them. This makes birch juice an excellent natural source of nutrients for the skin.
Additionally, birch juice is a water-based liquid, which means that it can be easily incorporated into a variety of skin care products, such as toners, moisturizers, and masks. Water-based products are often preferred by the skin because they are lightweight and easy to absorb, and they do not leave behind a heavy or greasy feeling.
9. Anti-microbial properties
Birch juice naturally contains betulinic acid, which is a triterpenoid compound that is known for its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Another compound found in birch juice that has antimicrobial properties is salicylic acid, which is a natural beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is commonly used in skincare products for its exfoliating and antibacterial properties. Salicylic acid has been found to be effective against various bacteria and fungi.
Legal disclaimer
This content does NOT provide medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is NOT a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult your own doctor for more information.
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