Health benefits of black currant

Blackcurrants are much healthier, larger, and sweeter than their red and white relatives. They grow almost everywhere and are very popular among gardeners. Science confirms their antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-radiation, and other medicinal properties.

What does black currant contain?

The berries are rich in vitamin C. The medicinal properties of currant leaves are also well known, as scientific research has shown. The plant has been included in the top 10 sources of vitamins. Eating just 20 grams of berries will fully satisfy an adult's ascorbic acid needs.

This beneficial element is also found in the buds, at up to 450 mg/100 g, and in the leaves after flowering, at up to 470 mg/100 g. Almost all parts of the currant are used in folk medicine. Just 100 g of the berry contains:

• Protein 1.4 g.
• Carbohydrates 15.3 g.
• Water 82 g.
• Fat 0.4 g.
• Ash 0.9 g.

Among minerals, the berry contains potassium, approximately 15% of the daily requirement, and iron, up to 10%. It also contains selenium, copper, and zinc. This rich composition and complex of substances systemically enhances the beneficial effects. Scientists have also identified carotene and phenylalanine in the berries, as well as citric and malic organic acids, glycosides and anthocyanins, tannins and pectin substances, essential oils, and sugars.

 

The healing properties of black currant

The substances and vitamins contained in blackcurrants help improve overall well-being. The berry is recommended for inflammation and blood glucose regulation. Extracts inhibit low-density lipoproteins and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Regular consumption of blackcurrant reduces inflammation in the liver. The extract reduces inflammation in adipose tissue caused by obesity because it modulates energy metabolism in muscles. The extract improves the condition of people with type 2 diabetes.

An extract from the leaves helps suppress influenza A. The virus poorly penetrates and adheres to cells. Secondary metabolites of the plant are involved in the production of hemagglutinin. The antiviral effect of blackcurrant berry extract against herpes and influenza B has been well-known and studied.

Scientists are developing drugs based on the plant's polysaccharides. They will be useful in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, an inflammation that causes dry skin. Experiments on mice have shown that a blackcurrant-based drug has a positive and multifaceted effect on the immune system. It inhibits mast cell migration into the skin and alleviates the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

The extract is beneficial for smokers. The substances it contains neutralize the cytotoxic, damaging effects of nicotine on fibroblasts and epithelial cells. The berry juice helps lower high blood pressure and slows heart rate. However, this effect has only been observed when the juice is injected intravenously into animals. Research will help understand the mechanism of hypotension.

Blackcurrants contain anthocyanins. These substances have a positive effect on the intestines. This is why the berry is recommended as part of many diets. The extract helps reduce the risk of cancer. The plant's seeds contain arabinogalactan protein. It prevents the Helicobacter pylori bacterium from adhering to the stomach wall. Therefore, the seeds are used to treat gastritis and ulcers.

Conclusion

Over the years, various parts of blackcurrant have been used to discover and demonstrate its beneficial properties. It can replace half the remedies in your medicine cabinet.