Betulae Platyphyllae Succus
Aliases：White Birch Sap, Birch Sap, Birch Honey.
Huà Shù Zhī is a traditional Chinese medicinal material, officially named Huà Shù Yè. It is the liquid that flows from the trunk of Betula platyphylla Suk., a plant belonging to the family Betulaceae. Birch sap is a transparent or slightly yellowish wound fluid that flows from birch tree trunks after drilling in spring, with a distinctive woody fragrance. It is collected in May each year by cutting or drilling into the bark to catch the flowing liquid for fresh use. It has been used both as a traditional thirst-quenching beverage and in folk medicine and skincare.
Efficacy & Actions
Resolves phlegm and relieves cough; clears heat and detoxifies.
Indications
Indicated for cough, asthma, and painful urination with dark urine. Commonly Used Chinese Herbs in Heilongjiang records that it may also be used for scurvy, kidney diseases, and gout.
Modern Pharmacology
Anti-fatigue: Helps replenish energy and alleviate fatigue. Hypoxia tolerance effect. Immunomodulation: Increases immune organ weight and enhances immune function. Promotes growth and development. Antioxidant effect: Rich in polyphenolic compounds (such as betulinol and betulinic acid), flavonoids, and vitamin C, which scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Anti-inflammatory and cartilage protection: A 2026 study confirmed that birch sap alleviates T-2 toxin-induced inflammatory responses and matrix degradation imbalance in chondrocytes, exhibiting anti-inflammatory and cartilage-protective effects. Promotes metabolism and mild diuresis: Its natural sugars and electrolytes (such as potassium and magnesium) help replenish body fluids and promote metabolism.
Ingredients
Water: Approximately 99.1 g/100 g. Sugars: Soluble sugars approximately 1.07 g/100 mL, reducing sugars approximately 0.88 g/100 mL, primarily glucose and fructose. Protein: Approximately 63.0 mg/100 mL. Amino acids: 27 types of amino acids have been detected, with total amino acid content exceeding 40 mg per 100 mL. Vitamins: 9 types of vitamins including vitamin C, vitamin B₁, and vitamin B₂. Minerals and trace elements: Potassium (approximately 195 mg/100 mL), calcium (approximately 56 mg/100 mL), magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, germanium, and more than 11 other types. Organic acids: Niacin, glutamic acid, and others. Other active substances: Betulinol, betulinic acid, betulenol, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, essential oils, and others.
Usage & Dosage
For oral administration: 20–30 ml of fresh sap.
Contraindications
Allergic individuals should avoid: Birch sap contains allergens similar to birch pollen (such as Bet v 1). Those allergic to birch pollen may experience skin itching, rashes, swelling and itching of the mouth and throat, and other allergic reactions after consumption. In severe cases, it may cause difficulty breathing or anaphylactic shock. Use with caution in Spleen-Stomach deficiency cold: As this product is cool in nature, it may impair the Spleen and Stomach, potentially causing abdominal pain and diarrhea. Use with caution during pregnancy: Safety studies are insufficient, and it may adversely affect the fetus. Use with caution during breastfeeding: Safety is not yet established. Use with caution in kidney disease patients: Its diuretic effect may worsen the condition. Avoid excessive consumption: Overconsumption may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, leading to diarrhea, bloating, or stomach pain. Daily intake should not exceed 200 ml. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Do not consume spoiled sap: If the color darkens or an off-odor develops, do not drink it.
Selected Formulas
For cough and wheezing (Jilin Chinese Herbal Medicine) In spring (early to mid-May), make an incision in the birch bark and collect the exuded sap. Take 2 wine glasses each time, once daily.
Daily Consumption
Direct consumption: Fresh birch sap can be consumed directly after low-temperature sterilization, with a recommended daily intake of 100–200 ml. Those with sensitive stomachs are advised to warm it to 37–40°C before drinking. Beverage preparation: Can be mixed with honey, lemon juice, or other flavorings, or blended with milk or coffee for consumption. Cooking and seasoning: Can be used as a natural flavoring agent in soups and congee. Fermented consumption: Can be fermented to make birch sap wine. Concentration into syrup: Can be concentrated into syrup. External use: Can be used in skincare products such as moisturizing sprays and serums. An allergy test should be performed before topical application.
Medicinal Parts
Liquid flowing from the tree trunk (stem juice).
Selection & Storage
Short-term storage: Must be processed within 12 hours of collection; can be temporarily stored in a 5–7°C cold storage for a maximum of 3 days. Refrigerated storage: Store in sealed containers in the refrigerator; can be preserved for 6 months to 1 year. Frozen storage: Can be stored in the freezer for extended preservation, though it may affect the flavor. Preservative storage: With added preservatives and temperature kept below 20°C, can be stored for up to 6 months. Sugar-added storage: When sugar content reaches 50%–60%, can be stored for several years. Commercial products: Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture; shelf life is typically 12 months.
