About Tree Sap

Tree sap is the cells of a tree in fluid form. These particular cells are called xylem cells. The sap also contains many other ingredients, such as minerals, sugar, hormones and water. When sap leaks from a tree, it is usually from age, damage or if the tree has some type of fungus. Some trees tend to leak more sap than others, and this is thought to be because of frequent climate changes. A wounded tree will leak large amounts of sap.

Function

Sap is sometimes called the blood of a tree because it circulates inside a tree, carrying nutrients and water throughout the tree. The sap is basically a nutrient transport system inside the tree; a tree would die if sap didn't circulate inside it. Sap is also a nutritious food eaten by many forest creatures such as squirrels.

Benefits

Tree sap not only benefits the tree, but it also people. Tree sap is extracted and used to make maple syrup, latex, resins, hair removal and other products. Tree sap is sometimes added to natural soaps and bath care products due to its nutrient contents.. The sap also helps to hold things together.
Fossilized resin from tree sap is made into amber jewelry. Scientists have also found mosquitoes and other small insects inside fossilized tree sap.

Warning

Tree sap can cause damage when it becomes stuck on a vehicle for long periods of time. The sticky substance dries and acts like glue, which can scratch the paint. Don't attempt to remove the sap with a damp cloth. Instead, use fingernail polish remover or a water-soluble pain brush cleanser, which can be found in the hardware section. The longer the sap has been sitting on the car, the more difficult it can be to remove it.

Considerations

Some people like to collect tree sap in order to make homemade maple syrup. You will need to use a drill and other special equipment, so be sure to use caution, and don't do it alone (see Resources below).

Potential

Tree sap has a great deal of potential for future uses. People are continually finding more things they can make or do with the sap. Tree sap ornaments and other fun products are being produced. Tree sap also has the potential to fossilize anything that we would like to save for future generations. This process happens naturally as well as in laboratories.

Resources

• How to Make Homemade Maple Syrup
• Tree Sap
• Sap Flow