Author: Ivana Dragica |
Red Currant - a summer treasure chest of health |
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Red currant or redcurrant (lat. Ribes rubrum) is a perennial shrub growing in Western Europe. It belongs to the order of Saxifragales and is a close relative of gooseberries.
It is a popular sour red berry which is most frequently used for jams or juices and is welcome as a salad in many European cuisines.
History has recorded that as early as 11th century red currant was used as a precious decoration of monastery yards and town squares, as well as a highly appreciated ingredient of dishes and natural remedies.
Today it is also known for its nutritious and healing properties so you should by no means ignore if you have a chance to enjoy this tasty seasonal fruit.
Composition and healing properties
Red currant contains proteins, malic, citric and tartaric acid and gamma-linoleic acid.
It is rich in calcium and phosphorus. It abounds in B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3 i B6), plus vitamins C, A and K.
Red currant is a great source of antioxidants and minerals improving the quality of skin and hair.
It helps with the body detoxication and the elimination of free radicals thus increasing the resistance of the body to illnesses.
It contains vitamin C and iron, which helps with better absorption of vitamin C. This makes it a great choice for everyone suffering from anemia.
Vitamin C has antihistamine properties which reduce the activity of allergens. It also protects from bacteria and viruses and alleviates symptoms of asthma.
Protects blood vessels and bones
Red currants contain potassium, which is important for heart and proper functioning of the whole body.
It prevents hypertension, lowers blood pressure and helps reduce the risk of brain stroke. High amounts of vitamin K in red currants promote healthy blood coagulation.
This vitamin is responsible for keeping bones healthy as it regulates absorption of calcium into bones, which makes it useful against osteoporosis.
Diuretic and digestive tonic
Either eaten fresh or consumed as juice or jelly, red currant has a superb laxative activity. If you consume it just several days in a row, you will feel the problem of constipation going away.
Due to its fiber contents, its regular consumption stimulates bowel function and naturally accelerates digestion.
Its mild activity makes it suitable for people suffering from irritable colon syndrome.
It is used as an appetite tonic and if it's eaten before a meal, it promotes better digestion.
Red currant is a known diuretic as it stimulates the elimination of uric acid. It is beneficial for those suffering from gout or rheumatic illnesses.
Most beneficial parts of red currants
Seeds inside red currants contain gamma-linoleic acid which helps with high blood pressure, pains and inflammation, soothes allergic reactions and relieves skin problems.
You can also use these seeds to alleviate PMS, allergies, tension, stress, psoriasis and eczema.
Used in the form of gel, seeds show a strong anti-inflammatory action, specially with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Red currant leaves are applied as tea in a treatment of liver problems.
The root is effective against urinary tract problems and is helpful for elimination of excess proteins from the urine.
Mashed berries may be applied topically for compresses in case of injuries, cuts and burns.
Health benefits of red currants:
- stronger immunity
- lower risk of colon cancer
- prevention of heart diseases
- lower blood pressure
- healthier bones
- better digestion
- cleaner skin
Recipes with red currants
Decoction of fresh leaves or roots
Place a handful of leaves or roots into a litre of water and boil for several minutes. Drink 3 cups a day.
Bath which cleans the blood and improves digestion
To accelerate digestion and cleanse the blood, for each liter of water, mash a large handful of red currants together with one leaf and a piece of root.
Take 1-2 baths for hands and feet daily, 20 minutes each.
Red currant mask for skin hydration
Mash half a handful of red currants and mix them with a teaspoon of honey.
Apply the mixture to the neck and face, and wash up after 15 minutes.
Use once a week.
Sources for this article include:
[url=http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com]http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com[/url]
[url=http://www.dovemed.com]http://www.dovemed.com[/url]
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