The composition of black currant berries in terms of the abundance of biologically active substances and minerals can only be compared with artificial vitamin preparations.
Among all our fruits, vegetables and berries, black currant confidently takes first place in the amount of vitamins it contains. Even the famous subtropical citrus fruits cannot compete with her in this indicator. What are the unique beneficial properties of black currant?
Vitamins in black currant
Most of all in the composition cmorodins of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). The peak of its accumulation in berries occurs during the ripening period. Within two weeks after the berry enters the stage of ripeness, almost seventy percent of vitamin C is broken down. The benefits of currants for the body are that at the time of full maturity, only 20 berries are able to provide the body with a daily intake of ascorbic acid.
And our body needs this vitamin primarily to maintain the immune system. It is immunity and all protective forces that are the main patients of ascorbic acid. But besides this, the benefit of vitamin C is that it is necessary for the elimination and neutralization of certain toxins and preventing the development of cancerous tumors.
The next vitamin found in blackcurrant and providing its health benefits is provitamin A, also called beta-carotene. He, like ascorbic acid, has oncoprotective properties and stimulates the body’s defenses. And its use is very necessary for the normal functioning of the eyes and a good reaction of the retina to light.
The chemical composition of black currant also contains a lot of B vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6. The spectrum of action of each of them is quite wide, but in general, the useful properties of these vitamins are that they:
- ensure the normal course of many energy and synthetic processes in the body;
- stimulate the production of hormones;
- reduce the amount of cholesterol in the blood;
- regulate the absorption of proteins;
- provide the tone and activity of the body in general and the nervous system in particular.
Found in the composition of currants vitamin K, which is involved in the synthesis of certain proteins. Berries also contain a lot of other useful biologically active substances.
Useful substances in black currant
1. Phytoncides.
The composition of black currant contains phytoncides – useful substances that are harmful to microbes and viruses. It is thanks to them that onions and garlic are considered excellent means for the prevention of viral diseases. There are fewer phytoncides in the currant than in these hot vegetables, but you can use it with benefit in large quantities.
2. Acids.
Currants are good for health due to the presence of a large amount of organic acids. They can be harmful to those who have problems with high acidity of the stomach and, moreover, suffer from gastritis or peptic ulcer disease. But in a healthy body, these acids stimulate appetite, increase the volume of secreted digestive juices and have a preventive antimicrobial effect.
3. Pectin.
Why is black currant good for digestion? It is well influenced by pectin – a special “fruit” type of fiber. Its functions are: to stimulate the work of intestinal muscles, improve digestion, prevent the absorption of cholesterol into the blood and cleanse the intestines from various toxins, heavy metals and putrefactive bacteria.
4. Tannins.
Tannins have a slightly opposite purpose. In the composition of black currant, they are slightly less than pectin, but the properties are more pronounced. The use of tannins in holding the intestines together and the ability to retain food in it. With the parallel action of fiber, a much more complete absorption of food occurs.
5. Essential oils.
And one cannot fail to note the benefits of essential oils in black currant, which have a disinfecting effect. Due to this quality, berries and leaves of currants are used in canning and making preparations for treating wounds. Essential oils have a strong specific smell and pronounced bactericidal properties.
Minerals in currants
The composition of black currant is rich in micro- and macroelements, contains:
- sodiumnecessary to maintain the acid-base balance in the body, the normal functioning of the peripheral nervous system and muscle contraction;
- potassium, normalizing pressure and rhythm of heart contractions;
- calcium and phosphorusnecessary for the normal well-being of the joints;
- iron and magnesium, whose use is in aiding the production of red blood cells and the prevention of anemia.
Summing up, let’s say that black currant is a real garden pharmacy – this is how its composition is rich in vitamins and minerals. A handful of healthy berries per day will be enough to provide the body with many useful substances and prevent the development of various diseases.
They knew about the beneficial properties of black currant since ancient times, therefore it was diligently introduced into culture, received new varieties, crossed with other plants to benefit from more fertile and viable hybrids. And therefore, the berry must be consumed in the summer season. And whenever possible – more often. Then many sores and epidemics will bypass you.
