Currants offer a wealth of nutrients not found anywhere else. The small blackcurrant can be both sweet and sour, so it is a fruit that tends to require some type of additional sweetness, such as for both eating and baking. B. Honey. Currant juice can be used to make a delicious spicy sauce for lamb, turkey or fish. In Chinese and European folk medicine, the plant is used in hundreds of recipes. Read on to find out what currants are good for!
Health Benefits of Fruits
These small berries contain the infection-fighting vitamin C; more than 300 percent of the recommended daily value is contained in 100 grams of currants. This vitamin has antioxidant properties that prevent free radicals (which arise from exposure to toxic chemicals and pollutants and cause aging, cancer, heart disease and inflammation) from damaging cells. The B vitamins found in blackcurrants, such as pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and thiamine (vitamin B1), are called “essential” because they come from a common source outside the body - they are used by the body for the metabolism required. The iron contained in the berry is an important mineral that covers 20% of the daily requirement and protects against immune deficiency and fatigue by transporting oxygen to the cells. Also included are copper, calcium, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium and potassium for optimal functioning of the cells, tissues and organs in the body.
Anthocyanins are one of the compounds that make blackcurrants a particularly effective antioxidant. Flavonoids such as beta-carotene, zeaxanthin and cryptoxanthin help reduce the risk of lung and oral cancer, protect against neurological diseases, slow the aging process and fight inflammation. The berries play a role in preventing Alzheimer's disease, preventing and treating arthritis, gout and liver problems, relieving menopausal symptoms, painful periods and diarrhea. They can even be used externally to heal wounds and treat insect bites.
How healthy are currants: strengthening the immune system
In addition to vitamin C, blackcurrants contain numerous antioxidants and anthocyanins. They can help boost the immune system, soothe a sore throat, and fight flu symptoms. Blackcurrant leaves also have a number of properties, including:
- antimicrobial
- anti-inflammatory
- antiviral
- Antidote
- antiseptic
Help for the cardiac system
Grape-based drinks, such as: Some foods, such as wine and juice, are known to reduce plaque formation, but currant juice is much more effective. Blackcurrants are rich in potassium and GLA, which can also help lower blood pressure. GLA also helps the cells in your heart become more resilient and slows the formation of platelets in your blood vessels. Additionally, one study found that currant powder increased blood flow to the heart and reduced overall peripheral resistance. This suggests that blackcurrants are healthy and can also contribute to recovery after exercise.
The berries help with psoriasis
The berry is effective for skin diseases, with the currant oil helping to relieve psoriasis symptoms. It has been found that the oil can slow the growth and development of psoriasis plaques. It can also be applied directly to dry, itchy, or burning skin.
Improving the function of the eyes
Research shows that GLA and linoleic acid, found in vitamin C, may show promise in treating dry eyes. Luckily, blackcurrants are full of both. Clinical studies with currant roots have shown that these berries improve eye function, including:
- the ability of the eyes to adapt to darkness
- the blood circulation in the eyes
- slowed progression of visual field deterioration in people with glaucoma
- Symptoms of visual fatigue
People who work at computers every day can benefit from blackcurrant supplements. In one study, 1 tablespoon of the berries was found to reduce visual fatigue two hours later.
What are currants good for: improving memory
Blackcurrant is essential for maintaining brain health. Daily consumption of the berries sharpens memory and improves oxygen supply to the brain. This is due to the presence of antioxidants and iron. They improve the oxygen supply to the brain and nerve cells and support their function. They counteract free radicals and prevent oxidative damage in the brain. The berries reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Are currants healthy: protection against pathogens
In addition to their powerful antioxidant effects, the berries also contain antimicrobial properties that can help protect against harmful bacteria and viruses. An extract at a concentration of less than 1% can inhibit the growth of several virus strains - including the pathogens of adenoviruses and influenza - by more than 50%, and an extract at a concentration of 10% is able to kill 95% of these viruses prevent them from adhering to the cell surface.
How to use the berries
The berries are available in some grocery stores and also online. They have an intense sour taste and can be eaten raw or sweetened andsavory dishesbe processed. They can also be brewed into blackcurrant tea or add a unique flavor to juices, jams, sauces, smoothies and baked goods.
Are there any side effects
People taking phenothiazines, a type of antipsychotic medication, should not be blackTake currants, as they may increase the risk of seizures. In addition, they can slow blood clotting. If you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood clotting medications such as warfarin, you should consult your doctor before taking the berries. You also shouldn't take berries before surgery because they can increase the risk of bleeding.