Black currants (Ribes nigrum) are woody shrubs that are native to Europe and Asia and introduced to the Americas back in the 1800s. This plant is part of the Gooseberry family and comes in many different varieties. These berries grow on the shrubs throughout the summer and can be picked and used for cooking, drinks, and herbal medicine.
Medicine: Black currants are nutrient-rich berries and oftentimes have beneficial effects on the body. Raw black currants have high levels of vitamin C as well as iron and manganese. These berries have plenty of antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system and treat minor health illnesses such as sore throats or symptoms of the flu. In addition they have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antiseptic properties, its anti-inflammatory properties have made it useful in the treatment of conditions such as arthritis and joint pain.
In traditional medicine, blackcurrant was often consumed in the form of teas, syrups, or tinctures. It was also used as an ingredient in various remedies, often combined with other herbs and spices to enhance its medicinal properties. The plant was highly valued for its rich and intense flavor, making it a popular addition to many dishes and drinks.
Grape-based drinks like wine and juice are known to help decrease plaque buildup, but blackcurrant juice, as well as pomegranate juice, is far more potent.
Blackcurrant is high in potassium and GLA, which can help lower your blood pressure too. The GLA also helps cells in your heart resist damage and slows down platelet clumping in your blood vessels.
Clinical trials with blackcurrants found that these berries improve eye function, including:
the eyes’ ability to adapt to the dark.
blood flow to the eyes.
slowed progression of visual field deterioration in people with glaucoma.
symptoms of visual fatigue.
People who do computer work every day may benefit from blackcurrant supplements. One study found that 1 tablespoon of blackcurrant berries reduced visual fatigue two hours afterward. ...read more
