Blackberry is a recurrent shrub or vine with thorns that is both medicinal and edible. The juicy dark- blue fruits can be eaten raw or made into jam. They are harvested in early summer and are packed with vitamins and minerals. The leaves are known and used as a medicinal herb, and the root has also medicinal properties.
They help ease symptoms of diarrhea, cystitis, hemorrhoids, and dysentery.
The Blackberry root has strong astringent properties-causing the constriction of skin cells, therefore is great for healing wounds and skin sores. It is also used to treat a sore throat, gingivitis- gum inflammation, and mouth ulcers.
Blackberry leaves are boiled and used as a gargle in treating mouth problems or as a general mouthwash.
The fruits and the root can be made into a medicinal syrup to serve as a cough remedy.
The nutritional value of Blackberry is enormous since it has a large amount of dietary fiber, proteins, and carbohydrates, vitamins such as Vitamin A, C, E, K, thiamin, and pyridoxine. It is also a good provider of potassium and sodium, alongside minerals such as calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese, selenium, and zinc.
All of these compounds make the Blackberry excellent for;
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Bone Health
The great amount of calcium found in blackberry is beneficial for good bone density and strengthening the bones.
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Red Blood Cells Production
Folate, folic acid, or Vitamin B6 is also found in great amounts in blackberry and is responsible for creating new cells and is often recommended for treating anemia and iron deficiency.
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Eliminate Hemorrhoids
Blackberry pulp made from the berries is used in a treatment of hemorrhoids. The treatment is effective because blackberry contains substances such as proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins that can ease pain from piles by strengthening the affected veins.
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Healthy Hair
Consumption of blackberries can enhance the collagen production and can contribute to strong hair, because of the high amount of Vitamin C. The antioxidant properties of the Vitamin C provide healthy scalp and bouncy shiny hair.
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Wound Healing
The excellent astringent properties of the blackberry leaves are due to the high amount of tannins. Tannins prevent the formation of blood clots and help constriction of skin cells.
The fruit leaves are used to treat open sores, wounds, and scratches. Just brew some leaves and apply the liquid to the skin.