Blackberry: benefits and harm to human health

Blackberry is a berry belonging to the Rubus subgenus and the Pink family. Let us consider in more detail what it represents, its medicinal properties and contraindications.

What is a blackberry and how does it look

In appearance, it is similar to raspberries, but has a darker color, usually black (sometimes there may be fruits with a rich red tint), it has a pleasant sweet taste.

The berry has a rather specific smell. In total, there are about 300 varieties. Although the exact origin of the blackberry is unknown, it is believed that the culture came from Asia, North America or Europe. She was especially popular with the ancient Greeks and Romans. Until a certain moment, the plant was considered wild, and they did not pay much attention to it. But when it became known about the many benefits of blackberries, the plant began to be actively cultivated.

What is the difference between blackberry and raspberry

Blackberry - a berry that has a black color, grows on a low bush. Outwardly, it is very similar to all of us known raspberries. During growth and ripening, the berry first acquires a brown hue, and after that it is saturated with a deep red color. The ripe berry has a bright black and purple color.

Raspberry is a sweet fragrant berry with a red tint. As a rule, summer residents in their plots are engaged in raspberry cultivation. It can also grow in the wild, in the forest and on the banks of rivers. It is believed that the berry comes from Asia, it was from there that it spread throughout the Mediterranean, throughout Europe and later became known throughout the world.

It is believed that berries are fairly easy to distinguish precisely by color, but this is not always the case. The unripe fruits of the blackberry are red, and there are raspberry varieties in which the berries are black. Therefore, it is not worthwhile to judge whether it is blackberry or raspberry, relying only on their color, it is better to pay attention to the bush. For example, blackberry twigs are stronger, they can grow up to 300 cm, unlike raspberries, whose bushes, as a rule, have a height of about 150 cm. The thorns of the blackberry are quite thick, similar to thorns of roses. Raspberries have softer thorns, but there are more of them, and they are densely planted on the stem.

Another feature of the blackberry is that during the collection of berries it is not so easy to remove from the receptacle. As a rule, the fetus comes off together with the nucleus. When collecting raspberries, this does not happen, since the berry itself is softer, so separation from the receptacle is easy. The raspberries are hollow inside, but the blackberry has a core. If you compare the taste, then in the berries of blackberry it is quite specific, while raspberries are sweeter.

The yield of blackberries is higher, the fruits are large in size. If talking about wild raspberries, then her berries are smaller. It is worth noting that quite rarely you can find wild blackberries, unlike raspberries, which grows everywhere. Raspberries, as a rule, ripen by mid-summer, blackberries - by mid-August.

What is more useful: raspberry or blackberry

Blackberry

1. Blackberries contain a large amount of vitamin C, so this berry can be included in therapeutic and preventive nutrition, it will help protect the body from various infections and colds.
2. The berry also contains phytoestrogens - compounds that support the body during the period of premenstrual syndrome.
3. The antioxidants that blackberries are rich in fighting wrinkles and helping to stay youthful. Therefore, the use of this berry has a beneficial effect on the body, which will certainly affect the appearance and supports natural beauty.
4. Blackberries have properties that make it support the cardiovascular system, prevent the occurrence of various heart diseases, and also help reduce pressure. To get rid of hypertension, you need to eat one glass of blackberry daily.
5. Blackberries are recommended to be included in the diet of diabetics, as it causes a decrease in sugar levels.
6. For better absorption of calcium and tooth strength, it is recommended to use this berry on a regular basis.

Raspberry

1. Raspberries are also very beneficial for the body. It contains vitamins A, B and E. Despite the fact that it is not very rich in vitamin C, it contains substances that help the absorption of this vitamin.
2. Raspberries have anti-cold properties. It is worth noting that raspberries do not lose their properties even after heat treatment. Not only fruits are considered useful, but also leaves, on the basis of which delicious tea can be made.
3. Raspberries also contribute to weight loss. Berries contain substances that can break down fats and cellulite. In order to get rid of extra pounds, it is recommended to eat 0.5 cup raspberries before meals.
4. In the East, this berry was once used as an effective remedy for infertility, since folic acid is present in its composition.
5. Raspberry has a beneficial effect on the heart, so it is recommended to use it to the cores. Berries help lower cholesterol, they are also rich in copper - a mineral that supports the nervous system.
6. Zinc in raspberries increases libido in both men and women.

In fact, it is very difficult to answer the question of which is more useful - blackberry or raspberry. Blackberry is very useful for women aged, and is also recommended for people suffering from chronic or seasonal colds. Raspberries are suitable for diabetics and people who have heart problems.

Composition and calorie content

100 g of product contain:

• Calories - 43 kcal.
• Proteins - 1.4 g.
• Fats - 0.5 g.
• Carbohydrates - 9.6 g.

Blackberries contain 88.17 g of water, 0.37 g of ash, 5.3 g of fiber, 4.9 g of sugar.

It contains many minerals: calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, etc.

The vitamin composition is quite rich:

• water-soluble - vitamins C, B1, B2, B5, B6, B3 (PP), B4 and B9;
• fat soluble - A, beta-carotene, E and K.

100 g of blackberry contains 14% of the recommended daily intake of fiber, as well as 23 milligrams of vitamin C, which is 35% of the recommended daily dose. In addition to vitamin C, blackberries also contain vitamins A, E and K. The latter helps in the process of muscle relaxation, so some women use blackberries to relieve pain during childbirth.

Blackberries contain copper, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones. Copper is also involved in the production of white and red blood cells. The berry has B vitamins, it also contains folic acid, riboflavin, pantothenic acid and niacin.

Useful properties of blackberries

General benefit

1. Fights free radicals. Anthocyanosides and polyphenols - these antioxidants found in blackberries help in the fight against free radicals.
2. Moisturizes the skin. In blackberries, more than 50% water, as well as a lot of fiber. Both of these components are essential for healthy skin. The consumption of blackberries removes toxins from the body and maintains skin elasticity.It is also worth noting that the berry contains collagen-forming vitamins C and A, which support the health of the skin. Blackberries are also great for cleansing and detoxifying oily skin. Vitamins A, C and K contribute to the rejuvenation of the epidermis.
3. Supports healthy hair. The high content of antioxidants in blackberries makes the berries ideal for hair care. Vitamin C contained in fruits is largely responsible for collagen production and helps strengthen hair. Antioxidants help fight the harmful effects of the environment on the hairline.
4. Rich in fiber. One glass with berries contains about 8 grams of fiber. Dietary fiber contributes to energy production and gives a feeling of fullness. Fiber is also involved in digestion.
5. Supports brain health. Eating blackberries can support brain health and prevent memory loss in old age. The antioxidants contained in the berries help fight free radicals and positively affect the interaction of brain neurons.
6. Contains Manganese. Manganese is a vital mineral that supports the health of the immune system. It also helps the body absorb carbohydrates, amino acids and cholesterol. Like vitamin C, manganese plays a key role in collagen formation. It can prevent osteoporosis, regulates blood sugar and reduces the incidence of epileptic seizures. One glass of blackberry contains about 1 milligram of manganese - this is almost half the recommended daily allowance.
7. Great source of vitamin K. He is involved in the process of blood coagulation. This vitamin also plays a role in maintaining bone strength. Vitamin K deficiency can lead to thinning of bone tissue. Also, its lack can provoke severe menstrual bleeding and the appearance of blood in the feces or urine. Just one glass of berries contains about 29 micrograms of vitamin K, which is more than a third of the recommended daily intake.
8. Supports oral health. Regular consumption of blackberries supports oral health. Blackberries contain rutin, gallic and ellagic acid. These natural phenolic antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables have anti-carcinogenic and antibacterial properties. Blackberries kill pathogens in the mouth. It also has antiviral properties useful for the treatment of periodontal disease.
9. It has anti-cancer properties. The micronutrients in blackberries prevent the growth and spread of malignant cells. Anthocyanins and phytochemicals in fruits inhibit tumor growth.
10. Supports heart health. Anthocyanins in blackberries improve heart health. The content of fiber and magnesium prevents clogging of the arteries and ensures normal blood circulation, which is especially important during pregnancy.

For women

Blackberry teas and decoctions are very useful for women with gynecological problems. Blackberries are recommended to be used in cases of severe manifestations of menopause, as well as in periods of premenstrual syndrome, with menstrual pain, swelling, hormonal disorders, since the substances contained in them contribute to the normalization of blood pressure and hormonal levels.

For men

Blackberries are also very beneficial for men. Berries are rich in fiber, which is necessary for detoxification of the body. One glass of blackberry contains about 8 g of dietary fiber. The berry is also an excellent source of vitamins C and K, which help prevent prostate cancer. The fruit has lutein, which supports eye health.

During pregnancy

Pregnant women are allowed to consume blackberries. The main thing is to choose a product without any additives, and also do not forget that before eating the berry must be thoroughly washed. Stale berries should be excluded from the diet, as they can cause abdominal pain or even lead to food poisoning.

Blackberry Health Benefits During Pregnancy:

1. It nourishes with energy. Blackberries are a natural source of energy and prevent fatigue, especially if you eat berries in late pregnancy. During this period, a pregnant woman, as a rule, feels constant physical exhaustion, therefore it is highly recommended to use a blackberry.
2. Prevents constipation. Constipation is a very common problem that most pregnant women face. Blackberry contains fiber, which supports digestion, promotes easy and efficient absorption of water in the intestines.
3. Prevents birth defects. Blackberry contains folate, a vital nutrient that prevents the formation of birth defects in a child, and can also eliminate the risk of miscarriage. Moreover, regular consumption of berries can prevent defects in the development of the heart of the child.
4. Supports bone health. Being a rich source of calcium and magnesium, blackberries help strengthen teeth and support bones during critical periods of pregnancy. The content of minerals and nutrients in the berries also helps to strengthen the child’s bone tissue and ensures their growth and development.
5. Prevents bleeding. Blackberries are a source of vitamin K, which is involved in the coagulation process and can prevent excessive bleeding, especially during pregnancy. The use of blackberry berries contributes to the rapid healing of wounds and prevents osteoporosis.

When breastfeeding

If a nursing woman is not allergic to blackberries, then this berry is allowed to be consumed. Blackberries are very nutritious as they contain vitamin C, folic acid, iron, potassium and dietary fiber. All of these vitamins and minerals can benefit growing babies by passing through breast milk. But it should be introduced into the diet gradually and not earlier than 1 month after the birth.

For children

As soon as the baby begins to wean and eat solid food, you can gradually introduce blackberries into his daily diet. The best time to include blackberries in your baby’s diet is after four to six months. The recommended dose of blackberries for a six-month-old baby should be about 1-2 cups. Remember that first you need to give the baby crushed berries so that the small stomach makes it easier to assimilate them.

Blackberries support the baby’s digestive tract and improve the health of their skin. The antioxidants present in the berry minimize the risk of cancer. Calcium and magnesium help the healthy development of the baby's bones.

Despite the benefits of berries, allergic reactions can occur. Consult your doctor if your child has a rash, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, swelling of the face, and abdominal cramps after eating blackberries.

When losing weight

Blackberries are rich in a specific type of flavonoids (anthocyanins), which are also found in strawberries, cherries, blueberries, grapes, radishes and black currants. These compounds support a healthy immune system. When immunity is strong, the body is able to function more efficiently. This often helps to normalize the weight without problems.

100 grams of the product contains only 43 calories. It is important to note the fact that blackberries are among the berries containing the least sugar, so it is very useful for losing weight.

Blackberries are also high in fiber. Dietary fiber helps you feel full after eating, so people on a diet will not have to resort to snacks or other liberties. In addition, fiber helps the digestive system work more efficiently. This leads to the fact that excess weight and toxins do not accumulate in the body.

What are useful blackberry leaves

1. Promotes oral health. Blackberry leaves have antibacterial properties. Infusions on blackberry leaves are used to maintain oral health.
2. Treat diarrhea. Diarrhea is a fairly common problem, and sometimes it can occur completely unexpectedly.The best way to fight it is to be treated with herbs. Blackberry leaves just have the necessary nutrients that help get rid of stomach upset. The most effective remedy in this case is tea based on blackberry leaves.
3. Support the immune system. Blackberry leaves are rich in flavonoids, compounds that support the immune system. In addition, the content of flavonoids protects the body from bacteria and viruses.
4. Treat ulcers. Blackberry leaves have an antibacterial effect and are effective in controlling ulcerative bacteria. Thus, ulcers can be treated with blackberry extract.
5. Eliminate hemorrhoids. Blackberry leaves have properties that help calm the symptoms of hemorrhoids.
6. Maintain heart health. Blackberry leaves contain a large amount of flavonoids. They are indispensable for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. They also support cells, organs and general health. Blackberry leaf extract is good for heart health.
7. Rich in antioxidants. Blackberry leaves contain a large amount of antioxidants that can fight free radicals. Tea brewed on blackberry leaves will be beneficial for everyone.

Is blackberry leaf tea good for you?
Decoctions and teas from blackberry leaves are very useful for the body. They are recommended to be consumed with anemia, and this product should also be included in the diet of middle-aged women. This is an excellent sedative that can help protect against neurosis. Children can be given this tea after 2-3 years.

The benefits of frozen blackberries

After freezing, berries lose about 10% of their beneficial constituents.

Useful properties of frozen blackberries:

1. Supports the cardiovascular system, strengthens the heart muscle.
2. Strengthens and cleanses blood vessels of toxins, promotes blood thinning.
3. It relieves inflammation in the internal organs.
4. It normalizes the digestive tract, normalizes digestion.
5. Helps fight the diseases of the central nervous system.

It is worth noting that this product is contraindicated in persons suffering from chronic kidney diseases. Berries should also not be consumed in case of colitis and stomach ulcers.

Blackberry in medicine

Blackberry is widely used in medicine. Berries help strengthen the body, as they contain many vitamins and minerals. It is worth noting that the leaves of the plant are also very useful, from which it is possible to make decoctions for rinsing the oral cavity. They also make lotions for the treatment of ulcers and are used as a diuretic and sedative. Fresh leaves can also be used to treat affected skin.

With diabetes

With diabetes, it is allowed to use blackberries both raw and as a component of various desserts and juices. This is a fast-digesting product, so when using it is not worth fearing the accumulation of body fat. It contains few calories, has a low glycemic index (25) and low calorie content. Therefore, blackberries do not allow obesity to develop in diabetics. Vegetable sugars, which are part of the chemical composition of berries, do not overload the pancreas, normalize glucose levels in the blood and urine. However, use blackberries with caution, since it contains glucose.

With pancreatitis

If we talk about whether it is allowed to use blackberries with pancreatitis, then we can say with confidence that yes. However, everything is good in moderation, therefore, with this disease, it is necessary to carefully monitor the food consumed. Blackberries can be eaten in small quantities and only during periods of remission. With an exacerbation of pancreatitis, berries are forbidden to eat.

With gastritis

In gastritis, as a rule, special infusions are prepared on the basis of blackberries. But do not forget about fresh berries, as well as juices.Blackberry juice is a very useful drink, and if you make a mix with juice from the leaves, you will get an effective tool to combat diarrhea and gastritis.

With gout

Blackberries contain quite a lot of oxalates, so it is recommended to use it in small amounts with gout. At the same time, blackberries are rich in fructose, which can contribute to the aggravation of gout disease. The berries also contain antioxidants, which can be a prophylaxis against gouty attacks, and also help lower uric acid levels. Based on this, the decision about whether or not to eat blackberries with gout should be made based on your own health.

Blackberry based traditional medicine recipes

Blackberries are very often used in various recipes of traditional medicine. Berry can be consumed in its natural form, made from berries drinks, tinctures, stewed fruit and cook jam. Here are some recipes:

Blackberry Raspberry Cold Tea

Take fresh leaves of blackberry (2/3) and raspberries (1/3). It is necessary to mix them and leave until they begin to fade. After this, the leaves must be kneaded with a rolling pin, sprinkled with water on them, put them in a bag (cloth) and placed in a warm place. After a couple of days, when the leaves have a characteristic odor, they need to be dried and stored in closed glass jars. After that, you can brew tea.

To brew tea you need 1 cup boiling water and 1 tsp. received raw materials.

Infusion for rinsing the mouth and throat

In boiling water (1 l) place 3 tbsp. dry raw materials (crushed). Let it brew for 30 minutes. Strain. Gargle.

Blackberry in cosmetology

The composition of the blackberry contains a large number of useful substances that are necessary for a beautiful and healthy appearance.

For face

1. Anti-inflammatory mask. Pour the chopped blackberry leaves with boiling water, put them in gauze, and then apply a mask to the face for 20 minutes. Do not flush.
2. Refreshing mask. Mash the berries until smooth. Take 2 tbsp. the resulting mass, 2 tbsp. cream, mix and apply a mask on the face for 15 minutes.
3. Anti-aging mask. Mash the berries to a smoothie and squeeze the juice. Take 100 ml of juice, 3 tbsp. sour cream, mix and apply a mask on the face, décolleté and neck for 20-30 minutes.

For hair

Natural dyes have a huge advantage over artificial dyes, as they help maintain beautiful and healthy hair. Natural dyes do not harm the hair, and even vice versa - give a natural color and shine. Blackberry belongs to natural dyes, so it is often used for hair coloring. Let's look at a recipe for staining curls and simultaneously strengthening them with this berry.

Recipe

• Apply blackberry juice to dry, clean hair.
• Wait 60 minutes.
• To wash hair.

After the procedure, the hair will have a reddish-brown tone, shine with health.

Note: blondes should not use this berry for hair care.

Harm and contraindications

In addition to vital substances for humans, blackberries also contain allergens. One of these substances are salicylates. For example, people who have aspirin intolerance may experience allergy symptoms after eating berries. Symptoms tend to develop within a few minutes and may include:

• itchy skin;
• rash;
• tingling on the face;
• tearing.

In most cases, allergies are relatively easy to tolerate and usually go away on their own. In case of exacerbation, antihistamines can relieve symptoms. Sometimes anaphylaxis may occur after use.

Blackberry root contains a large amount of tannins, therefore it is not recommended for people with colitis.Consuming large amounts of tea from blackberry leaves increases the amount of tannins in the body, and this can cause nausea and vomiting.

Contraindications:

• individual intolerance;
• kidney disease
• increased acidity of gastric juice.

How to choose and store a blackberry

When buying a blackberry, always consider the following points:

1. Choose berries that are moderately hard to the touch, slightly puffy, dry and have a uniform dark purple color.
2. Avoid berries that are not blackberry-specific.
3. Beware of mold on the fruit.

Eat berries as soon as possible, because the shelf life of the blackberry is short. It can go bad within two days. Here are some storage tips:

1. Do not wash the blackberry in advance, but only immediately before use.
2. Unwashed berries should be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic sealed container.
3. Soft, overripe berries should be removed.
4. Crushed or moldy berries should be discarded.
5. Fresh blackberry is usually stored for about 2 days, but it can be frozen, then berries can be enjoyed year-round.

Important: the daily intake of blackberries is about 50 grams.

What can be prepared from blackberries: recipes

Compote

Ingredients:

• Blackberry - 1 kg.
• Sugar - 0.5 kg.
• Water - 3 l.

How to cook:

1. Sort the spoiled berries, remove the stalks, rinse.
2. Pour water into a volumetric pot (not aluminum), bring to a boil.
3. Pour the berries into the pan. After boiling the compote, allow the fruits to boil (4-5 minutes).
4. Pour sugar and cook again (5 minutes).
5. After the drink has cooled, place it in the refrigerator.

Smoothie

Ingredients:

• Blackberry - 1 cup.
• Banana - 1 pc.
• Milk (chilled) - 1 l.
• Sugar - 0.5 tbsp.

How to cook:

1. Peel a banana, cut it into small pieces and place with a blackberry in a blender.
2. Add milk and sugar to the blender, beat (about 3 minutes), then pour the mass into glasses.

Jam

Ingredients:

• Blackberry –1 kg.
• Sugar - 1 kg.

How to cook:

1. Sort blackberries, remove spoiled berries.
2. Rinse and tear the stems. When the water drains from the berries, place them in a pan (with a large bottom diameter) or in a special basin for jam. Sprinkle with sugar.
3. Gently stir the berries, taking care not to damage their integrity.
4. Set aside the candied berries for 30 minutes until the juice is released. Stir slowly to warm. Cook for about 30 minutes.
5. After that, place the berries in sterile jars and seal tightly.
6. Keep refrigerated.

Frozen blackberry fruit drink

Ingredients:

• Blackberry (frozen) - 400 g.
• Water - 900 ml;

How to cook:

1. Rinse the berries well, clean from tails and twigs.
2. Put the berries in a blender and pour water there.
3. Beat until smooth.
4. Then put a gauze on a colander and strain the blackberry.
5. Squeeze the gauze, pour the resulting liquid into glasses.

Blackberry Meat Sauce

Ingredients:

• Blackberry - 500 g.
• Wine (semi-sweet red or homemade cherry) - 150 g.
• Salt - 0.5 tsp
• Sugar - 1 tsp
• Vinegar (apple or wine) - 30 g.
• Soy sauce - 1 tablespoon
• Honey - 1 tsp
• Garlic - 2 tooth.

A mixture of spices (a pinch: hot red ground pepper, coriander, suneli hops, ground nutmeg) - 2 tsp.

How to cook:

1. Wash the blackberries, put the berries in a saucepan, add wine and boil for 2-3 minutes.
2. Grate the remaining berries in mashed potatoes, add all the ingredients (except honey), chopped garlic and simmer over low heat until thickened (15–20 min).
3. Add honey and turn off the heat. Leave to cool.
4. The resulting sauce should be infused for 2-3 days.

Interesting Blackberry Facts

1. What distinguishes a blackberry from raspberry relatives is that the core remains with the berry when torn.
2. Blackberries, like most berries, are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and many other healthy nutrients.
3. In some countries, there are beliefs that state that the color of blackberry juice is the same as the blood of Christ. Some also believe that the crown of thorns that was laid on Christ's head was made from a blackberry bush.
4. The berries are very perishable and can be stored only a few days after picking.
5. The very dark color of the blackberry indicates a high content of antioxidants in the berries.
6. In ancient times, blackberries were used by women in labor to relieve labor pain.
7. BlackBerry nutrients help improve immune function, vision, digestion, memory, brain function, skin condition, as well as strengthening the heart, preventing cancer, controlling weight, strong bones, and blood coagulation.
8. Blackberry leaves serve as food for caterpillars and for some mammals (deer).
9. The Greeks used blackberries as a remedy for gout, and the Romans made leaf tea to treat various diseases.
10. Blackberries were used to make desserts, jams, jellies, and sometimes wine. Blackberries are also used to make sweets.
11. Sometimes you may notice that the blackberry plants begin to acquire an orange tint. The berries of such a plant are no longer suitable for consumption. This is a serious fungal disease that cannot be treated.

Blackberry photo