Black currant ( Ribes nigrum ) is a domesticated plant, which is also found in the wild, originating in the mountainous areas of Eurasia. Very well known for its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine action, in the past it was used to cure pestilences and fevers, while today it is useful against conjunctivitis and allergy. Let's discover the characteristics and side effects of blackcurrant .
Black currant: characteristics and properties
Blackcurrant is a deciduous shrub, with large, petiolate leaves, whitish-green flowers collected in hanging racemes and globose black fruits, rich in seeds. Compared to red currant, it is different not only for its color, but also for its aroma and taste.
Blackcurrant is used in all its parts and has various therapeutic actions:
- stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol
- counteracts any kind of stress or injury,
- stimulates the conversion of proteins into energy,
- eliminates inflammation,
- temporarily inhibits the action of the immune system against allergies,
- favors the elimination of urea,
- reduces blood cholesterol levels,
- it has an astringent, vasoprotective and refreshing action
For this reason, blackcurrant is useful in the case of asthma, rhinitis, bronchitis, laryngitis, dermatitis and conjunctivitis, due to capillary fragility and couperose.
Side effects of black currant
Black currant can have several side effects such as
- pressure increase,
- interaction with anticoagulants and psychotropic drugs,
- allergic reactions.
In the event of pregnancy and lactation, its use is not recommended.
