The black currant (Ribes nigrum) is not only a delicious ingredient in jams, juices or desserts, but also a real powerhouse when it comes to health and cultural significance. Let's take a closer look at this versatile berry that is often underestimated.
Health benefits
The black currant is bursting with valuable ingredients that make it a real superfruit:
Vitamin C bomb: With a content of around 177 mg of vitamin C per 100 g, it far surpasses oranges. This vitamin is essential for the immune system, collagen formation and fighting oxidative stress.
Antioxidants & Polyphenols: The berry's deep purple color is an indication of its high content of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Omega 6 fatty acids: The oil from the seeds of the blackcurrant contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a rare omega-6 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with skin problems such as atopic dermatitis.
Eye health: The ingredients in the berry are said to promote blood flow to the retina and thus support vision.
Support for joint health: Studies suggest that blackcurrants have anti-inflammatory effects and can provide relief from joint problems such as rheumatism or arthritis.
Cultural significance
The black currant has been known and loved in Europe for centuries. In Russia, Poland and Scandinavia in particular, it plays an important role in cuisine, whether in the form of juice, liqueur or as an accompaniment to game dishes.
In Great Britain, black currant juice became popular during the Second World War. As citrus fruits were in short supply, the British government promoted the cultivation of this berry and distributed the juice free of charge to children to meet their vitamin C needs.
In folk medicine, it was traditionally used to treat colds, sore throats and to strengthen the immune system.
Fun Fact
The black currant was banned in the USA for decades! Why? Because of its connection to a tree disease, "white pine blister rust", its cultivation was banned in many states from the beginning of the 20th century. Today, it is experiencing a comeback there, as the ban has largely been lifted.
Conclusion
The black currant is more than just a small, dark berry. It is a real vitamin C bomb, an antioxidant miracle and an integral part of European culture. Get to know our products.
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Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies to scientifically prove them. Therefore, not all statements can currently be accepted by conventional medicine.
Sources:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22673662/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21121259/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9137918/