Disclaimer: The findings discussed are lab based and further studies need to be done.

Maple syrup! It seems like that’s all we talk about, but maple trees, maple leaves, and even maple bark should not be taken for granted. It has been reported that the Native Americans used all the parts from maple trees in traditional medicine, why aren’t we doing the same yet? 

In contrast to other studies, this research focused on the identification of the components of silver maple trees rather than red maple trees. The University of Rhode Island collected silver maple tree leaves in the Kingston campus and utilized a process called chromatography used to separate and identify the components of a mixture. Through this method, they were able to identify nine components in silver maple tree leaves. 

Further investigation might be needed to determine the potential health benefits of these components. This research shows that maple syrup is not the only contributor to our health, but maple trees, in general, have plenty of components that might serve for medicinal purposes. What do you think, are you willing to switch to a healthier sweetener option yet?

Reference: Bin Muhsinah A.; Ma, H.; DaSilva, N.; Yuan, T.; Seeram, N.P. Bioactive glucitol-core containing gallotannins and other phytochemicals from silver maple (Acer saccharinum) leaves. Natural Products Communications, 2017, 12, 83-84. https://web.uri.edu/maple/bioactive-glucitol-core-containing-gallotannins-and-other-phytochemicals-from-silver-maple-acer-saccharinum-leaves/