Blackberries - beneficial properties and contraindications

What is a blackberry and what does it look like?

Wild blackberries belong to the Rosaceae family, native to the North American continent of Eurasia. How do blackberries grow? It is found on forest edges or open areas, in mixed and coniferous forests, in river floodplains and ravines, in clearings and in the forest-steppe zone.

Where do blackberries grow in Russia? The plant's growing area is from the northern regions to the southern regions. In the foothill areas, often impenetrable thickets of blackberry bushes grow.

The crop is a thorny bush, the height of which is from 1 to 3 m. The plant is beautiful at any time of the year: in spring with rich green foliage, in summer with pinkish flowers, in autumn with dark brown or black berries. The fruits are characterized by a fragrant smell, sourish, pleasant, slightly astringent taste.

The useful plant blooms at the beginning of the summer season, and usually pleases with its harvest in August - an abundance of small berries. There are up to 200 varieties of blackberries. Suitable for growing in the country:

• Black satin;
• Texas;
• Medana;
• Chokeberry;
• Agawam.

Properties and calorie content of fruits

The culture is valued for its useful chemical composition:

• vitamins in blackberries: K, P, E, C, A, PP;
• micro- and macroelements;
• phenols;
• pectin;
• organic acids;
• fructose;
• fiber;
• tannins;
• glycosides.

Blackberries are especially in demand in the diet, the calorie content of fresh berries is low. Per 100 grams of product the calorie content is 43 kcal. Blackberry BJU – 1:0.3:13, where:

• proteins – 7%;
• carbohydrates – 88%;
• fats – 5%.

For frozen blackberries, the calorie content increases and is equal to 64 kcal, 92 kcal for canned berries. The fruits are rich in composition and should be included in the menu:

• phosphorus forms tooth enamel, normalizes energy metabolism, controls acid-base balance, reduces pain in arthritis;
• copper takes part in hematopoiesis and protein synthesis;
• magnesium is responsible for metabolism and protects against osteoporosis;
• calcium is a building material for bones and teeth;
• zinc enhances male and female libido, has a beneficial effect on the immune system;
• potassium stabilizes the gastrointestinal tract, receives nerve impulses;
• cobalt affects hematopoiesis, liver and central nervous system functions, and is recommended when working with increased background radiation.
• sodium delivers carbon dioxide and affects protein metabolism;
• molybdenum resists sexual dysfunction, caries, and protects against gout. Its deficiency causes the formation of kidney stones and increases the risk of developing cancer.

Chemical composition and calorie content

Blackberries are a real storehouse of useful elements. This small berry contains an excellent set of nutritional components. Vitamins found in blackberries include vitamin A, vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B6, folate, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), vitamin E (alpha tocopherol) and vitamin K (phylloquinone), minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc). It is a source of amino acids and essential dietary fiber. It does not contain harmful cholesterol.

The composition of the berry is really rich, but the calorie content is low - only 36 Kcal per hundred grams.

Useful properties and benefits of blackberries for the human body

Consumers are interested in the benefits of blackberries. The healing properties of blackberries include:

1. Fight against free radicals.
2. Moisturizing the epidermis.
3. Satiety, elimination of hunger.
4. Supports brain performance.
5. Increases immunity, regulates blood sugar levels and reduces the frequency of epileptic seizures.
6. Bone strength.
7. Anticarcinogenic and antibacterial qualities.
8. Preventing arterial blockage, ensuring normal blood flow.

Blackberry leaves medicinal properties and contraindications

Both berries and blackberry leaves have beneficial properties. The raw materials are used to prepare decoctions and infusions. Medicinal properties are manifested in the treatment of:

1. Oral cavity – tincture of blackberry leaves has an antibacterial effect.
2. Diarrhea - will solve the problem; the beneficial properties of herbal medicine will relieve indigestion.
3. Ulcer - blackberry extract with an antibacterial effect does the job well.
4. Hemorrhoids - blackberry lotions calm the manifestations of the disease.
5. Hearts - flavonoids in a healthy blackberry infusion cope with dysfunction of blood vessels and the heart, and have a positive effect on well-being.
6. Dermatitis, osteochondrosis, joint diseases.
7. Dropsy - a decoction relieves the body of accumulated fluid.
8. Abscesses, bruises - crushed leaves are applied to the wounds.

Blackberries in medicine

The berries are used in medicine: they strengthen the body due to the rich content of useful minerals and vitamins. Blackberry leaves are used to prepare medicinal decoctions. They are used as lotions in the treatment of ulcers, as diuretics. The benefit of fresh leaves is tightening the affected areas of the epidermis.

For diabetes

Diabetics can consume berries raw, as well as prepare juices and desserts. A healthy product that is quickly absorbed, has a small amount of calories and a low GI. Blackberries do not cause obesity in diabetics. The plant sugars in the berries do not overload the pancreas and stabilize the level of glucose in the blood and urine.

For pancreatitis

Berries are eaten in moderation, only during the period of remission. If the disease worsens, blackberries are prohibited.

For gastritis

Special useful tinctures are prepared. The menu includes fresh berries and blackberry juice.

For gout

It is advisable to limit consumption of blackberries, which are rich in oxalates and fructose, so as not to complicate the disease. The benefits of antioxidants in fruits are protection against gout attacks, reducing the level of uric acid. Well-being determines the consumption of blackberries for gout.

Features of the use of blackberries

No matter how useful this berry is, it has some contraindications:

• an allergic reaction is possible, mainly to a decoction of blackberry leaves. Berries cause such a reaction extremely rarely;
• if you have diseases of the small intestine and stomach, replace fresh berries with blackberry juice;
• If you have increased stomach acidity, limit your daily intake of blackberry juice to one glass.

In most cases, blackberries are not only an excellent dessert, but also a good natural medicine.

In folk medicine

Since ancient times, blackberry leaves have been used as an effective remedy in the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery. This is due to the abundance of astringent tannins in them, which help control the functioning of the digestive tract. All parts of the plant are used in folk medicine. Recipes have long been known:

• decoction of leaves for diabetics;
• infusion for irritability and insomnia;
• compress for wounds, swelling, trophic wounds and inflammation;
• anti-diarrhea powder;
• diuretic decoction;
• tincture for flu and bronchitis.

Decoction of leaves

Don't think that the power of blackberries lies only in the berries. The leaves are no less useful. They are known for their astringent, wound healing and diaphoretic properties. Such a wide spectrum of action is successfully used in a decoction to treat dysentery, diarrhea, bleeding, ulcers, eczema, and purulent wounds.

However, be careful! Consuming large amounts of this decoction significantly increases the concentration of tannins in the body and in some cases causes complications such as vomiting. In this case, doctors usually advise drinking milk. It neutralizes the effect of tannins. This decoction is contraindicated for people with cancer or a history of this disease.

Root decoction

In case of exacerbation of chronic pyelonephritis, you can take a decoction based on the root of this plant. Add 300 ml of boiling water to three tablespoons of chopped blackberry root. Prepare the decoction over low heat for 10-15 minutes. Then cool and filter. The recommended dose is a tablespoon at intervals of two hours during exacerbation of the disease.

Carefully! Blackberry root is a rich source of tannins and is not recommended for chronic gastrointestinal diseases such as colitis.

Tincture

Blackberry tincture with vodka is known as a remedy for treating flu and colds. Prepare a tincture at the rate of 60 grams of fresh blackberries per glass of vodka. The product is placed in a cool, dry place for three days and taken twenty to thirty drops three times a day when symptoms of the disease appear.

Dried berry powder

Dried blackberry powder is indicated for diarrhea. Take half a teaspoon of powdered dried berries three times a day with plenty of water. Within five to seven days, symptoms disappear. This product is safe even for children over three years of age.

Compress

Fresh blackberry leaves can be applied to the legs for several hours for varicose veins or chronic ulcers. This compress will have a regenerating effect and reduce pain. The compress is applied for 15 minutes twice a day.

In cosmetology

In addition to the health benefits listed above, blackberries can serve as a delicious aid for people in maintaining glowing, beautiful skin. Consuming blackberries can promote healthy natural tissue tightening, which is an excellent non-surgical treatment for younger-looking skin. In cosmetology, those parts of blackberries are used that help moisturize the skin, get rid of the gray tint, cleanse and restore radiance to the skin. Also, blackberry extract is used to eliminate dermatological skin problems. In combination with various ingredients, blackberries are used in skin care of any type.

Blackberry masks for facial skin

Staying hydrated is essential for glowing, healthy skin. It is recommended to consume blackberries regularly to detoxify your own body and maintain skin elasticity and keep it hydrated from within. Alternatively, you can make a face mask by mixing blackberry juice with a teaspoon of honey. A mixture of thin layers is applied to the face and neck. Then rinse off with warm water. This way, you can hydrate your skin while providing it with essential nutrients.

Due to the high amount of vitamins A, C and K, blackberries have skin rejuvenating properties. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also contribute to this. Simply prepare a face mask: mix crushed berries with fresh yogurt, a pinch of nutmeg and lemon juice. Apply this mask on your face and neck for half an hour. Regular use of a face mask will rejuvenate and provide smooth and hydrated skin.

In cooking

Blackberries can be added to fresh fruit salads and baked goods such as cakes and pies. Can also be used to make jelly or canned food. Blackberries can be combined with other fruits to make a fruit salsa and served with chips. Blackberries make a delicious addition to a variety of desserts, including ice cream. This berry is used in making wine. Available in canned and dried form. Very good and healthy when eaten fresh.

Blackberries in cosmetology

The beneficial components of the product help in body care procedures. The recipe is based on the bactericidal properties of the plant. Decoctions are used for acne (lotion), dandruff (rinse), dermatological diseases (hand baths). To preserve the beauty and health of your facial skin, here are some useful masks:

1. Anti-inflammatory. Pour the chopped blackberry leaves with the broth, place in gauze, and place on the face for 20 minutes. After the session, do not rinse off.
2. Refreshing. Mash the blackberries until pureed. Take in equal shares - 2 tbsp. l. – a mixture of berries and cream, mix, apply to the skin for 15 minutes.
3. Anti-aging. Squeeze juice from mashed berries. You will need 100 ml of the product, 50 g of sour cream, which is mixed and applied to the face, décolleté, and neck for half an hour. Benefit for the body - restoration of youthful skin.

Blackberries as a natural dye

It is preferable to artificial analogues: the berry will not harm the hair and is responsible for its natural shade and shine. Colors strands and strengthens them at the same time. Girls use a recipe that involves applying healthy plant juice to dry hair. After an hour, wash your hair. After manipulation, the hair acquires a brown-red color and a healthy appearance.

To avoid unwanted consequences, it is not advisable for blondes to use a berry product to color their curls.

Cooking recipes

There are many blackberry recipes, each with its own indications. Fresh berries and tea made from them can improve intestinal function, reduce menstrual pain, and help fall asleep in case of increased excitability or nervous disorders. Very ripe berries are recommended to be used as a mild laxative, and in general, blackberries are excellent for inflammation, diseases of the genitourinary system and joint problems. The anthocyanins contained in blackberries are found in the same concentration as in raisins or prunes.

Blackberries are usually consumed fresh, even after freezing. If you wish, you can dry them to later use for infusions or teas. To do this, you need to carefully sort and review all the fruits, select whole and sufficiently ripe ones, remove the stems and dry at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees. Once dried, they can be stored for up to 12 months.

Leaf tincture recipe

To make a tincture, you need to take two tablespoons of leaves, pour 500 ml of boiling water and leave for 2 hours. Then strain the infusion and take 100 ml 4 times a day before meals.

Dried berry tincture

To make the tincture, take 2 tbsp. thyme, pour 250 ml of boiling water and leave for 20 minutes. This tincture should be taken in 500 ml doses, little by little over 2 hours. It helps with fever and inflammation.

Decoction of dry leaves

You need to take 10 grams of leaves, add 200 mg of water and boil for 10 minutes. Then the broth should be left for 2 hours and strained thoroughly. Take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day before meals.

Root decoction

Take 1 tbsp. dry roots, add 500 ml of water, then boil for 10 minutes and strain. Drink 100 ml decoction several times a day half an hour before meals.

Blackberry juice

Using a juicer, squeeze the juice out of fresh berries and drink as desired or for medicinal purposes, 300 ml 3-4 times a day before meals. Since blackberries are quite sour, their berries will also have a pronounced sour taste, so you can add a teaspoon of honey to half a glass of juice - this will sweeten the taste, but will not cancel out the beneficial properties of blackberries.

The juice from the plant is used to treat:

• bronchitis;
• anemia;
• tonsillitis;
• pharyngitis;
• tracheitis;
• fever;
• gynecological diseases;
• intestinal diseases.

Leaf juice

You can also make juice from the leaves; to do this, you need to take fresh leaves, pass them through a fine sieve in a meat grinder or blender, and then use gauze to thoroughly squeeze the juice out of them. It is taken 2 tbsp. 3 times a day before meals. This juice can also be mixed with honey to give it a pleasant taste.

What are the benefits of blackberry leaves?

The green mass of a useful plant is valued no less than a berry. The biochemical composition of the foliage is why blackberries are useful in the treatment of various pathologies. The green leaf is characterized by a complex effect:

• antioxidant;
• disinfectant;
• fastening;
• restorative;
• antibacterial;
• diuretic;
• invigorating;
• diaphoretic;
• helping wound healing;
• sedative.

The healing properties and benefits of blackberry leaves are discovered when used externally. Young leaves are harvested in the spring.

Beneficial properties of blackberry leaves

The benefits are present not only in the berries of the plant, but also in the leaves. They can be dried and then brewed into teas or infusions based on them.

Blackberry leaves help both when used internally and externally. They lower the temperature and calm the exacerbation of stomach ulcers. When treating the skin with this infusion, wounds, scratches and irritations from eczema and lichen heal faster.

How to select and store blackberries

When buying healthy berries, choose dark fruits that are soft to the touch. Unripe, hard specimens have a pink or reddish color. When choosing a product, berries are preferable:

• with a rich shade;
• dry, not sticking to each other;
• without mold, foreign inclusions.

The berries spoil quickly and are stored for a maximum of 3-4 days.

The berries are kept in a container. Freezing will lengthen the harvest season. In winter, you can prepare healthy juices, compotes or desserts from blackberries, which in the diet have a positive effect on the health of the body.

Benefits of blackberries for human health

Blackberries, whose benefits are great for the body, are used for medicinal purposes for women and men. But at the same time it acts differently.

For women

If you regularly consume blackberries, the epidermal cells will receive all the necessary microelements. The hair will completely restore its structure, and the face will rejuvenate. The benefits of blackberries for women's health also lie in the fact that they help normalize hormonal levels. Decoctions based on this plant are taken if there are problems with the kidneys.

Blackberry tincture can alleviate a woman's condition during menopause.

The low calorie content of fruits and vitamin C content have a positive effect on metabolism. According to nutritionists, by eating 300 g of berries daily and doing physical exercise, you can lose up to 2 kg in 1 month without any diets. If you eat blackberry dessert instead of dinner, you will lose 5 kg.

We recommend that you familiarize yourself with red barberry

Berries prevent skin aging, so they are used as a cosmetic product. With their help, the skin returns to a healthy appearance, irritation goes away, and rashes disappear.

The fruits of the plant are hypoallergenic, so they can be taken during pregnancy. During this period, the expectant mother often develops constipation, which can be helped by eating blackberries, which contain a large amount of dietary fiber. The product contains a lot of folate, which is an analogue of folic acid. Thanks to this active substance, the fetus develops without pathologies, and the likelihood of miscarriage is reduced to zero.

Blackberries are rich in enzymes that protect the female body from the negative effects of free radicals and heavy metals.

Many girls are interested in whether it is possible to eat blackberries during lactation. During breastfeeding, fruits should be consumed in limited quantities. A nursing mother is allowed to include berries in her diet when the baby turns 4 months old. Blackberries rarely cause allergic reactions. Gastrointestinal upset in infants can occur due to the dietary fiber contained in fruits.

For men

Healing berries also benefit a man’s health, having a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system. Regular consumption of fruits in adulthood reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack. Ripe berries are good for a young man's body, because the enzymes they contain increase stamina and libido. Blackberries should be included in the diet of professional athletes. It is high in potassium, which helps relieve muscle pain after intense workouts.

Berries do not allow inflammatory processes to develop in joints.

The fruits are useful for liver diseases. Men whose work involves increased stress often suffer from insomnia. Blackberry infusion provides complete rest and energizes you in the morning. Berries contain a lot of fiber, which is required for detoxification of the body. In addition, they are rich in vitamins C and K, which prevent the development of prostate cancer. Lutein contained in blackberries helps improve vision.

What can be cooked from blackberries recipes

Drinks and homemade blackberry rolls that will bring benefits are in demand among users.

Smoothie

Components:

• banana – 1 pc.;
• blackberries – 1 tbsp.;
• milk – 1 l;
• granulated sugar – 0.5 tbsp.

Cooking technology:

1. Cut the peeled banana into pieces.
2. Place the fruit and berry mixture in a blender.
3. Add sugar, pour in cooled milk, beat for 3 minutes.
4. Pour the resulting mixture into glasses.

Jam

Components:

• sugar – 1 kg;
• blackberries – 1 kg.

Cooking technology:

1. Sort, wash the berries, place in a wide bowl.
2. Cover with granulated sugar.
3. Leave for 3-4 hours until juice appears.
4. Place on the stove.
5. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
6. Remove from heat for 6–8 hours.
7. Boil again.
8. Cook for 10 minutes.
9. Place in jars and roll up.

Pouring

Components:

• sugar – 1 kg;
• berries – 3 kg;
• vodka – 300 ml.

Cooking technology:

1. Wash and dry the sorted berries.
2. Place in a 3-liter jar in layers, sprinkling with granulated sugar.
3. Shake a couple of times, put a rubber glove on your throat, making a hole with a needle.
4. Place it on the windowsill.
5. Filling the glove with gas signals fermentation of the product, which takes from 3 weeks to 1 month. It is determined by temperature and lighting conditions.
6. After fermentation, the composition is filtered through gauze.
7. To consolidate the result, pour in vodka.
8. The liqueur is poured into bottles, hermetically sealed.

Contraindications and harm

Stomach sensitivity is an obstacle to consuming berries in unlimited quantities due to organic acids. The fructose content of overeating berries has a negative effect on the kidneys. It is recommended to eat at least a glass daily for benefits. Otherwise, the manifestations of an overdose cannot be avoided: nausea, acute pain, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, swelling of the mucous membranes. Despite the deterioration of health after 2 or 3 days, it is necessary to visit the clinic.

Other restrictions on berry consumption include:

1. Individual intolerance.
2. Reduced blood pressure.
3. Severe diabetes.
4. Stomach and duodenal ulcers.
5. Increased stomach acidity.

Blackberries are prized for their health benefits. A small portion of tart, healthy berries with a sweetish-sour taste will replenish the body with vitamins and minerals. Fresh, frozen and dry berries will diversify your diet and make it tasty and healthy.