What is useful for irga: properties, contraindications, recipes and reviews

Description of where it grows

Irga is a deciduous deciduous tree or shrub. Scientific name in Latin Amelanchier. Belongs to the Pink family.

It is assumed that the name of the species comes from the ancient Celtic, which means “honey”. According to other assumptions, it comes from the Mongolian word “irga,” meaning “shrub with very hard wood.”

Today, 19 species of plants are known, growing mostly in the temperate climate of the northern hemisphere: in the north of the American continent and northern Africa.

Some species grow in central and southern Europe and Japan. On the territory of our country, wild shadberry can be found in the Caucasus and Crimea.

Irga, which is grown by gardeners, is the result of selection of wild species. Adapts well to growing conditions. Therefore, the shrub, with small beautiful white flowers that bloom in early spring, can be found in different climatic latitudes. Amateur gardeners are attracted by the durability of the shrub - it grows and bears fruit for up to 60 years.

The berries are purple-violet to blue-black with a bluish bloom, which ripen from July to September, depending on the variety. They taste sweet.

What is good for the body

Externally, the fruits resemble blueberries. The chemical composition of both berries is similar. As in blueberries, the following are found in the chemical composition of serviceberry berries:

B vitamins: riboflavin, folic acid, biotin;
Vitamin C, A;
Mineral salts: iron, manganese, potassium;
Phenolic acids;
Anthocyanins;
Flavonoids;
Tannins;
Pectins;
Organic acids;
Carbohydrates.
Smaller quantities contain vitamins B5, B1, PP (nicotinic acid), H, B6, K.

The calorie content of 100 grams of berries is 43-44 kilocalories.

Beneficial features

Vitamin C is critical to maintaining collagen, a protein found in skin, bones, tendons, ligaments and many other parts of the body.

A deficiency of ascorbic acid leads to the development of scurvy, a disease that causes bleeding gums. In addition, as a cofactor, it is involved in the metabolism of fats and hormones.

Vitamin A is essential for maintaining vision and is used in a protein that absorbs ultraviolet light. A lack of vitamin A in children can lead to decreased vision and even blindness.

Each of the B vitamins plays its own role in the human body. Riboflavin or vitamin B2 is essential for the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.

Keeps teeth, skin, hair, nails healthy. Participates in ensuring the normal functioning of the thyroid gland.

Folic acid is a vitamin essential for pregnant women. Prevents spinal problems and congenital diseases in children.

In addition, folates are involved in the synthesis of red blood cells. Reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, side effects from cancer treatment, arthritis.

Just 100 grams of berries provides almost 70 percent of an adult’s daily requirement for another important vitamin - biotin.

A deficiency of biotin, known as vitamin B7, leads to hair loss, brittle nails, and skin rashes. In pregnant women - to congenital defects of the fetus.

Mineral salts, like vitamins, play a key role in the functioning of the body. Participants in many enzymes. Act as cofactors or catalysts.

Manganese is used in many metabolic processes, including the metabolism of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and cholesterol.

Deficiency leads to problems with bones and metabolism.

Iron is a key part of the protein responsible for transporting oxygen in the body of all living things. Without enough iron, the body's ability to carry oxygen is reduced. As a result, the risk of blood disease – anemia increases.

Potassium, controlled by the kidneys, plays a role in regulating blood pressure by restoring the balance of intercellular fluid. Reduces risk:

Hypertension;
Stroke;
Heart diseases.

Potassium also helps maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and other bone diseases.

Phenolic acids are secondary plant metabolites. Usually quite dark in color and found under the skin of the berries. Scientists have linked these chemical compounds to anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

Anthocyanins are blue, purple or red pigments that are found under the skin of fruits. In fact, serviceberry berries may be the best sources of anthocyanins.

The effect of anthocyanins is associated with an effect similar to ibuprofen and aspirin.

As strong antioxidants, they are able to suppress the oxidative effect of free radicals, thereby preventing the growth of tumors.

Flavonoids are a class of secondary plant metabolites with antioxidant effects. Quercetin and rutin were found in the fruits of the serviceberry.

Quercetin prevents asthma, improves cardiovascular health and reduces inflammation.

Its close relative, rutin, is also a very powerful antioxidant compound. Rutin is responsible for strong walls of blood vessels. Prevents thrombosis.

There are studies confirming the anti-cancer activity of rutin.

Saskatoon contains several organic acids, including caffeic, ferulic, and chlorogenic acids.

Caffeic acid is a member of the hydroxycinamine class. Studies show it has anti-cancer properties. Causes the death of cancer cells - apoptosis.

Irga, benefits and harm

First, let's define the beneficial characteristics of this plant. It is noteworthy that even the bark of pyrus has healing qualities. Flowers, berries, leaves, and bark are used by healers, both fresh and dried. The medicinal properties of serviceberry are also confirmed by official medicine.

Flowers with leaves are used for the prevention and treatment of various diseases: decoctions and teas help with heart disease, manifestations of hypertension, and sleep problems. Leaves and flowers can be brewed on their own or together with berries - this tea can be consumed throughout the day.

Serviceberry berries are more popular: they contain fructose, glucose, nicotinic and ascorbic acids, vitamins E, B, carotene, and beneficial microelements. Eating fruits helps eliminate excess cholesterol, heavy metal salts, and other toxins. There is a general positive effect on the nervous system, a decrease in blood pressure, the risk of blood clots is reduced, and blood vessels are strengthened.

Irga - useful properties:

strengthening the immune system, antioxidant properties, thanks to the carotene contained in the fruits;
gentle removal of toxins and heavy metals from the body, thanks to pectin;
general improvement in heart function, reducing the risk of heart attack;
for liver and kidney diseases;
prevention of cancer;
for sore throat, sore throat (fruit juice, gargling);
brewing bark and leaves to alleviate the effects of burns and pustular skin diseases;
strengthening gums, treating various oral diseases (stomatitis, periodontal disease);
for indigestion;
for the prevention of varicose veins.

It is also necessary to mention contraindications and possible harm that irga can cause. If you have a tendency to allergies, then you should use the gifts of this shrub with extreme caution. Irga is a strong allergen. It is not recommended to take Pirus if you have hypotension (low blood pressure).

If a person suffers from blood diseases (hemophilia, clotting problems), shadberry should not be consumed. It thins the blood. Do not combine the use of decoctions or fruits with milk intake - they are not compatible (an upset stomach will not take long to occur). You should also take into account the inhibition of actions that can be observed from excessive consumption of shadberry.

If a shrub grows in an ecologically unfavorable area, then all that remains is to admire it, since the shrub very actively “pulls” harmful components from the earth, air, and water.

Benefit for health

Chemical compounds present in berries provide:

Anti-inflammatory;
Vascular strengthening;
Hypotensive;
Antioxidant;
Astringent;
Anticancer
Immunomodulatory

action.

It is recommended to include in the diet for prevention:

Anemia;
Scurvy;
Strengthening protective forces;
Oncology;
Respiratory and viral diseases;
High blood pressure;
Cholesterol stabilization;
Normalization of metabolic and metabolic processes;
Degenerative changes in the retina;
Vitamin deficiency;
Regulating blood glucose levels.

Irga:

Cleanses the body of toxins and carcinogenic compounds;
Strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
Prevents heart diseases such as heart attack, stroke, angina;
Prevents cholesterol deposits on the walls of blood vessels;
Improves blood circulation;
Good for skin, hair, nails.

Astringent properties help cope with intestinal disorders such as diarrhea, colitis.

Accelerates the healing of wounds and cuts, as it contains vitamin K and anti-inflammatory elements.

Juice is useful for older people because:

Strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
Increases their elasticity;
Reduces the risk of myocardial infarction;
Prevents varicose veins.

Application in cosmetology

Most often, infusions and decoctions are prepared based on shadberry. Such products act at the cellular level: improve tissue structure and increase elasticity. Thanks to this, the properties of the epidermis are restored. Face masks are made based on the fruit of the serviceberry. This plant has a positive effect on hair, for which juice or infusions and decoctions are used. Recipes:

Fresh berry juice should be rubbed into the scalp half an hour before washing your hair.
Prepare the flowers of the plant. They need to be filled with boiling water. When the product has cooled, it is filtered and then used for washing 2 times a day.
Take 1 tbsp. l. cottage cheese, the same amount of serviceberry juice, 1 tsp. honey The mixture is applied to the skin of the face. After 15 minutes, you need to remove the mass, after which you can wash your face.

If irga grows on the site, it is recommended to use its fruits, leaves, flowers and even bark. Medicines based on this plant provide the body with useful substances, improve the properties of blood vessels and skin, thereby accelerating recovery from various diseases.

Use for medicinal purposes

Although official medicine considers shadberry only as a healthy food product, herbalists recommend preparations based on it for prevention and treatment:

Anemia;
Hypertension;
Sleep disorders;
Nervous tension and fatigue;
Sore throat;
Stomatitis;
Gingivitis;
Vitamin deficiency;
Diarrhea.

In folk medicine, all parts of the plant are used. Based on them they do:

Tea;
Infusion;
Decoction;
Alcohol tinctures.

Serviceberry flowers

Flowers are used for high blood pressure.

Infusion

Prepared from 1.5 tablespoons brewed with 1 cup of boiling water. After infusion for 3 hours, drink three times a day, dividing into equal portions.

Alcohol tincture

Fill a 0.5 liter jar with flowers. Pour vodka and leave for 2 weeks in a dark place, shaking occasionally.

Take one tablespoon 3-4 times a day.

Serviceberry berries

First of all, a multivitamin taken to strengthen the immune system. Berry-based preparations help with:

Atherosclerosis;
Intestinal disorders;
Bleeding gums;
Decreased vision.

Vitamin tea

Brew a tablespoon of dried or fresh berries with a glass of boiling water. Cover with a plate. Leave for an hour.

For immunity

Brew a tablespoon of fruit with 250 ml of chilled boiled water. Leave it in the room for 8 hours. Then bring to a boil over low heat and immediately remove. Wrap and leave for 2 hours.

The decoction also helps with decreased vision.

For bleeding gums

A decoction is prepared from 1 teaspoon of dried berries and 250 ml of water. Boil at low simmer for 20 minutes.

The decoction is used three times a day for rinsing the mouth.

For atherosclerosis

The infusion is prepared from 2-3 tablespoons of dried fruits, which are poured with 250 ml of boiling water. After wrapping it up, let it sit for half an hour. Drink half a glass twice a day between meals.

The infusion helps strengthen the walls of blood vessels and increase elasticity.

Alcohol tincture

Crush 1.5 kg of fresh berries with a masher. Transfer to a glass jar. Add 2 tablespoons of honey (or sugar).

Pour in 1 liter of vodka. Leave for 10 days in a dark place, shaking the jar daily.

Strain through several layers of gauze. Leave for another 5 days in a dark place. Store in a dark bottle in a cool place.

Take 1 tablespoon before meals for:

Cold;
Nervous overstrain;
Decreased appetite.

The tincture helps normalize blood pressure. Strengthens the heart.

Shrub bark

Serviceberry bark contains tannins. Preparations based on it are recommended for problems with the digestive tract, such as:

Colitis;
Diarrhea;
Enterocolitis;
Gastritis.

Reduces gum bleeding. Helps with:

Stomatitis;
Throat disease;
Conjunctivitis;
Poor night vision;
Cataract;
Inflammation of the corneas of the eyes.

In the form of lotions, they are used for varicose veins, wounds and cuts.

Prepare a decoction of 1 teaspoon of finely chopped bark and a glass of water. Bring the poured bark to a boil. Boil at low boil for 30 minutes.

After straining, add boiled water to the original volume. Drink 50 ml up to 4 times a day.

Tea with irgi leaves

Tea has calming properties. Useful for those who have problems falling asleep.

To prepare the drink, brew a tablespoon of dried leaves with a glass of boiling water. Leave for 15-20 minutes.

Drink, adding honey, stevia or other sweetener to taste.

Not recommended for people with low blood pressure or increased blood clotting.

Benefits of serviceberry

Thanks to the rich content of biologically active substances in the berries, shadberry has become a well-known multivitamin. The pectins included in the composition can help remove toxins, heavy metal salts and breakdown products from the body, as well as reduce cholesterol levels. Carotene has a beneficial effect on vision. Ascorbic acid will be useful for colds and flu epidemics. Berries are often included in the diet of older people, as they can increase mental activity and strengthen bones. Antioxidants in the berry can prevent the development of cancer and help the body resist Alzheimer's disease.

Important! Irga increases immunity, enhances tissue regeneration after damage, and strengthens the nervous system.

The beneficial properties of serviceberry berries make it possible to use them in the treatment of vitamin deficiency.

For men

Irga can be useful for men over 50 years of age. Eating this berry can increase sexual activity and also strengthen blood vessels, which prevents the development of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, there is an improvement in blood flow in the groin area, thereby increasing the ability of the reproductive system.

For younger people, irga can help in getting out of stressful conditions. With frequent work at the computer, the berry can improve vision, relieve fatigue and prevent prostatitis from a sedentary lifestyle.

We recommend reading: Klopovka berry: medicinal properties, photos, methods of use

For women

Eating irgi will help relieve various pains during the menstrual cycle and help restore the body after bleeding during menopause.

For children

Children should be given shadberry with extreme caution, as it is an allergen and can cause a severe allergic reaction in a child.

The fruits of serviceberry are very useful for the growing body, as they help the proper development of the child’s mental abilities, have a positive effect on sleep and calm.

For the same reason, irga is recommended for children who have just started going to school. It helps you easily endure mental activity without unnecessary nerves.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding

As an alternative to hypertension medications, serviceberry berries have been used very successfully for women with high blood pressure. Due to its astringent properties, irga successfully replaces antidiarrheal drugs, which pose a danger in the perinatal period.

Advice! For expectant mothers, serviceberry fruits may also be useful in reducing the likelihood of thrombosis, dilated veins and loosening of blood vessels.

Thanks to its sedative properties, the berry can replace sedatives.

Precautions should be taken when consuming serviceberry during pregnancy, as the berry can be a strong allergen and become dangerous for the baby. Before adding to your diet, you should consult a doctor.