History- The blackberry is a widespread and well known shrub commonly known as a bramble.
It grows quickly and can reach up to 10 feet. The edible fruit produced
by the plant is popular for use in desserts, jam, jelly and even wine.
The berries are generally black in color, sometimes including dark red
markings, and slightly oblong in shape. They are generally about an
inch in size and have a usually sweet, sometimes bitter taste.
Health Benefits- Blackberries contain high levels of tannin which studies show to have the ability to tighten tissue, lesson minor bleeding, and possibly help alleviate diarrhea and intestinal inflammation. Blackberries also contain antioxidants such as anthocyanin pigments, which give them their color, vitamins C and E, and ellagic acid; all of which have been demonstrated to provide heart protection and to guard against cancer and chronic disease. Blackberries are a natural source of salicylate, an active substance found in aspirin which reduces inflammation. In addition, blackberries contain soluble fiber as well as potassium. Potassium is a mineral shown to help regulate the body's water levels and blood pressure. They provide a source of lycopene, which is thought to provide protection from macular degeneration. These berries also provide manganese, a trace mineral essential to the body’s enzyme’s systems, keeping bones healthy and helping synthesize fatty acids, and folate, essential for a healthy cardiovascular system and normal fetal development during pregnancy.
Preparation-Look for berries that are firm and well-colored. Avoid berries that have mushy spots or mold growth. Generally a thorough rinse in running water is all the preparation that berries need. Blackberries can be consumed on their own as a healthy and low-calorie snack, or you may choose to sprinkle them on top of cereal, ice cream, or make a blackberry sauce or jam.
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Blackberries
diarrhea and intestinal inflammation. Blackberries also contain antioxidants such as anthocyanin pigments, which give them their color, vitamins C and E, and ellagic acid; all of which have been demonstrated to provide heart protection and to guard against cancer and chronic disease. Blackberries are a natural source of salicylate, an active substance found in aspirin which reduces inflammation. In addition, blackberries contain soluble fiber as well as potassium. Potassium is a mineral shown to help regulate the body's water levels and blood pressure. They provide a source of lycopene, which is thought to provide protection from macular degeneration. These berries also provide manganese, a trace mineral essential to the body’s enzyme’s systems, keeping bones healthy and helping synthesize fatty acids, and folate, essential for a healthy cardiovascular system and normal fetal development during pregnancy.