Blackberry
Used as a traditional remedy since 16th century Europe, it remains popular worldwide. The magnificent, tasty, fleshy berries are deep purple in colour. They are found on woody stemmed shrubs that are from the Rosaceae family, which are native to the northern temperate regions of America, Asia and Europe.
Benefits & Uses
Blackberries are found in many different culinary treats such as sauces, syrups, wines, and jams. They can be consumed as a berry picked straight off the bush or as a supplement.
Blackberry fruit contains a multitude of beneficial polyphenols. Some of these include kaempferol, apigenin, leteolin, choloragenic acid, ellagic acid and anthocyanins.
Antioxidants are nutrients that protect our bodies against oxidative damage.
The term ‘antioxidant’ comes from the Greek word anti meaning ‘against’ and the English ‘oxidant’ meaning a substance that can cause oxidation. Oxidation occurs in our bodies everyday as part of our normal metabolic function. Oxidative stress can be exacerbated by poor diet, smoking, pollution, exposure to chemicals, and high levels of stress.
