Blackcurrants (Ribes nigrum) have been called "the forbidden fruit" in the United States. They help spread a fungus that attacks white pines. Because of this, blackcurrants have been removed from many areas and Americans have lost this nutritious fruit. Gooseberries have a high concentration of:
- anthocyanins
- polyphenolic substances
- antioxidants
- vitamin C
- γ-linolenic acid (GLA)
Many healthy foods and drinks use these fruits. Their bitter taste also lends itself to mixing with other fruits, especially in jams and juices.
Multiple uses of the plant
People use the whole blackcurrant plant, from the leaves to the seeds, for many conditions. The most common form is blackcurrant oil, but you can also make infusions and teas from the plant's leaves, fresh or dried.
People take blackcurrant to help:
- circulatory system
- immune system
- eye health
- gut health
- kidney health
blackcurrant extracts have been shown to reduce risk factors for metabolic conditions such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
1. Vitamin supersupplement
Blackcurrants contain many vitamins, such as:
- A
- B5
- B6
- B1
- E
The most important is vitamin C. In fact, blackcurrants have four times the amount of vitamin C than oranges and twice the amount of antioxidants than blueberries. The benefits of vitamin C are many. The body uses vitamin C to metabolize proteins and form collagen, which is essential for skin care and antiaging.
2. Strengthens the immune system
In addition to vitamin C, blackcurrants have plenty of antioxidants and anthocyanins. These can help boost your immune system, soothe a sore throat and ease flu symptoms. Blackcurrant leaves also have a number of properties, such as:
- antimicrobials
- anti-inflammatory
- antibiotics
- antitoxic
- antiseptics
- anticancer
One study showed that blackcurrant supplements boosted the immune response in people who exercised regularly. They could also train harder for longer periods of time. Another study in healthy older adults showed that blackcurrant oil boosted the immune system.
3. Muscle and joint support
Gooseberries have a direct effect on your body's inflammatory response. Blackcurrant oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a type of omega-6 fatty acid that is said to help reduce inflammation in the body. The high content of GLA and anthocyanin can help the joints or muscles in the following:
- pain
- rigidity
- soreness
- damages
In some studies, GLA supplements were so effective that participants with rheumatoid arthritis were able to reduce their usual pain medications.
4. Dissolves atherosclerotic plaque and supports the heart
Grape-based drinks, such as wine and juice, are known to help reduce the build-up of atherosclerotic plaque, but blackcurrant juice, as well as pomegranate juice, are much more powerful. Blackcurrants are rich in potassium and GLA, which can help lower blood pressure as well. GLA also helps cells in the heart resist damage and slows the buildup of platelets in your blood vessels.
In addition, one study found that blackcurrant powder increased blood flow to the heart and decreased total peripheral resistance. This suggests that blackcurrant can help you recover after exercise.
5. Soothes the skin
Although there is not much scientific research on blackcurrant seed oil and its effectiveness on skin conditions, the oil is recommended to help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis. When taken by mouth, blackcurrant seed oil can help slow the development of psoriasis flares. It can also be applied directly to dry, itchy skin.
6. Eye enhancer
Research shows that GLA and linoleic acid, found in vitamin C, may hold promise for treating dry eye. Fortunately, blackcurrants are packed with both. Clinical trials with blackcurrants have found that these fruits improve eye function, including:
- the ability of the eyes to adapt to the dark
- of blood flow to the eyes
- slowing the progression of visual field deterioration in people with glaucoma
- symptoms of visual fatigue
People who work on the computer daily may benefit from blackcurrant supplements. One study found that 1 tablespoon of blackcurrant fruit reduced visual fatigue two hours later.
Final remarks
Both blackcurrant fruit and oil are considered safe in recommended doses. However, supplements are known to cause some side effects, such as soft stools, mild diarrhea, and intestinal gas.
Because it can slow blood clotting, blackcurrant supplements are not recommended for people with bleeding disorders or people about to have surgery. Not enough is known about dried blackcurrant leaves to rate its safety. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their doctor before taking any supplements, including blackcurrant.
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The Pharmnet Blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any health condition. Each case is unique and a discussion with your doctor or pharmacist is essential!
