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Encyclopedia of Health Benefits of Berries Part 2

Namita Nayyar (WF Team)

11. Dewberries:

These belong to the blackberry family and are sweeter than blackberries. They are deep red in color when unripe, and dark purple when ripe. One striking feature is that the male and female plants grow separately.

The dewberries (Rubus sect. Eubatus) are a group of species closely related to the blackberries. They are small brambles with berries reminiscent of the raspberry, but are usually purple to black instead of red. Dewberry, a trailing shrub closely related to the blackberry. It is characterized by canes, or prickly stems, that trail along the ground. The dewberry is native to North America and grows in nearly every part of the United States.

The dewberry vine is slender and generally hugs the ground as it grows, shooting out tendrils in several directions. The leaves are shiny and leathery and have blunt-toothed edges.

The flowers are white. The fruit, which is edible, is dark reddish-black and is larger than that of the common blackberry. Dewberries belong to the rose family, Rosaceae. The American dewberry, the most common species, is Rubus flagellaris.

It may be difficult to distinguish dewberry and blackberry when looking at a single leaf. However, the overall plant appearance and growth habits of these two species are quite different. Dewberry has a low, vine-like growth habit and will rarely reach greater than 2 feet in height. Blackberry has a very upright growth pattern and will commonly reach 3 to 6 feet in height. Dewberry commonly has slender thorns with red hairs on the stem while blackberry has hard, tough thorns and no hairs. Additionally, the seeds in dewberry fruit are much larger and tougher than those in blackberry.

Dewberries are common throughout most of the Northern Hemisphere, sometimes thought of as a nuisance weed, but the leaves can be used for a tea, and the berries are sweet and edible. They can be eaten raw, or used to make cobbler or jam.

Around March and April, the plants start to grow white flowers that develop into small green berries. The tiny green berries grow red and then a deep purple-blue as they ripen.

When the berries are ripe, they are tender and difficult to pick in any quantity without squashing them. The plants do not have upright canes like some other Rubus species, but have stems that trail along the ground, putting forth new roots along the length of the stem. The stems are covered with fine spines or stickers. The berries are sweet and, for many, are worth the scratches and stains that come from picking them. In the winter the leaves often remain on the stems, but may turn dark red.

The leaves are sometimes eaten by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including peach blossom moths. The European dewberry, Rubus caesius, grows more upright like other brambles, but is frequently restricted to coastal communities, especially sand dune systems. Its fruits are a deep, almost black, purple and are coated with a thin layer or ‘dew’ of waxy droplets. Thus, they appear sky-blue (caesius is Latin for pale blue). It is less sought after, because its fruits are small and retain a markedly tart taste even when fully ripe.

12. Elderberries:

They have antioxidant properties that reduce cholesterol, boost vision, enhance the immune system, and also heart problems, coughs, common colds, influenza, bacterial and viral

infections, tonsillitis, besides also being used as ice cream toppings and many other uses in milkshakes, jams, cake mix, muffins, and syrups. Also called Sambucus, these small, dark black-blue berries grow in clusters.

Used for its antioxidant activity, to lower cholesterol, improve vision, boost the immune system, improve heart health and for coughs, colds, flu, bacterial and viral infections and tonsilitis. Elderberry juice was used to treat a flu epidemic in Panama in 1995.

Elderberries have been a folk remedy for centuries in North America, Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa, hence the medicinal benefits of elderberries are being investigated and rediscovered. Elderberry is used for its antioxidant activity, to lower cholesterol, to improve vision, to boost the immune system, to improve heart health and for coughs, colds, flu, bacterial and viral infections and tonsilitis. Bioflavonoids and other proteins in the juice destroy the ability of cold and flu viruses to infect a cell. People with the flu who took elderberry juice reported less severe symptoms and felt better much faster than those who did not. Elderberry juice was used to treat a flu epidemic in Panama in 1951 Elderberries contain organic pigments, tannin, amino acids, carotenoids, flavonoids, sugar, rutin, viburnic acid, vitaman A and B and a large amount of vitamin C. They are also mildly laxative, a diuretic, and diaphoretic. Flavonoids, including quercetin, are believed to account for the therapeutic actions of the elderberry flowers and berries. According to test tube studies2 these flavonoids include anthocyanins that are powerful antioxidants and protect cells against damage.

Elderberries were listed in the CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs as early as 1985, and are listed in the 2000 Mosby’s Nursing Drug reference for colds, flu, yeast infections, nasal  and chest congestion, and hay fever. In Israel, Hasassah’s Oncology Lab has determined that elderberry stimulates the body’s immune system and they are treating cancer and AIDS patients with it. The wide range of medical benefits (from flu and colds to debilitating asthma, diabetes, and weight loss) is probably due to the enhancement of each individual’s immune system.

At the Bundesforschungsanstalt research center for food in Karlsruhe, Germany, scientists conducting studies on Elderberry showed that elderberry anthocyanins enhance immune function by boosting the production of cytokines. These unique proteins act as messengers in the immune system to help regulate immune response, thus helping to defend the body against disease. Further research indicated that anthocyanins found in elderberries possess appreciably more antioxidant capacity than either vitamin E or vitamin C.

Studies at Austria’s University of Graz found that elderberry extract reduces oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Oxidation of LDL cholesterol is implicated in atherogenesis, thus contributing to cardiovascular disease.

13. Goji Berries:

They are usually found dried and shriveled and are similar to red resins in appearance. They are also known as wolf berries. They are usually cooked before consumption. They are used to prepare herbal tea, wines, rice congee, goji juice, etc. They contain 11 essential and 22 trace dietary minerals, 18 amino acids, 6 essential vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, dietary fiber, etc.

The goji berry is also called the wolfberry. It is a bright orange-red berry that comes from a shrub that’s native to China. In Asia, goji berries have been eaten for generations in the hopes of living longer.

Over time, people have used goji berries to treat many common health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, fever, and age-related eye problems. Goji berries are eaten

raw, cooked, or dried (like raisins) and are used in herbal teas, juices, wines, and medicines.

Research shows that eating berries — like blueberries, acai berries, cranberries, strawberries, and cherries — offers some definite health benefits. Berries like the goji berry are filled with powerful antioxidants and other compounds that may help prevent cancer and other illnesses, including heart disease. Antioxidants may also boost the immune system and lower cholesterol.

Eating foods high in antioxidants may slow the aging process as well. It does this by minimizing damage from free radicals that injure cells and damage DNA. When a cell’s DNA changes, the cell grows abnormally. Antioxidants can take away the destructive power of free radicals. By doing so, antioxidants help reduce the risk of some serious diseases.

Goji berries also have compounds rich in vitamin A that may have anti-aging benefits. These special compounds help boost immune function, protect vision, and may help prevent heart disease.

Some research suggests that goji berry extracts may boost brain health and may protect against age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Other studies using goji berry juice founds benefits in mental well-being, and calmness, athletic performance, happiness, quality of sleep, and feelings of good health. These are preliminary studies that need to be repeated before definitive conclusions can be drawn.

While goji berries are a rich source of antioxidants — and early research shows a potentially powerful health benefit — it’s still unclear how they stack up against other berries.

Researchers also don’t know whether goji berry supplements have the same health benefits as the actual berries.

There may be some possible herb-drug interactions with goji berries. If you take warfarin (a blood thinner), you may want to avoid goji berries. Goji berries may also interact with diabetes and blood pressure drugs.

Also, if you have pollen allergies, you may want to stay away from this fruit.

Goji berries (Lycium barbarum) are the most nutritionally dense fruit on Earth. They are a member of the nightshade family (Solonaceae), which contains many other common vegetables such as potato, sweet potato, tomato, eggplant, and pepper, as well as some poisonous plants like belladonna and deadly nightshade. Native to the Himalayan Mountains of Tibet and Mongolia, the goji berry is now grown in many other countries as well.

Although they have only been introduced in Western countries in recent years, gojis have been used for thousands of years in Tibet and China, both as a culinary ingredient and medicinally.

Unique among fruits because they contain all essential amino acids, goji berries also have the highest concentration of protein of any fruit. They are also loaded with vitamin C, contain more carotenoids than any other food, have twenty-one trace minerals, and are high in fiber. Boasting 15 times the amount of iron found in spinach, as well as calcium, zinc, selenium and many other important trace minerals, there is no doubt that the humble goji berry is a nutritional powerhouse.

This amazing little superfruit also contains natural anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal compounds. Their powerful antioxidant properties and polysaccharides help to boost the immune system. It’s no wonder then, that in traditional Chinese medicine they are renowned for increasing strength and longevity.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the goji is said to act on the Kidney and Liver meridians to help with lower back pain, dizziness and eyesight. They are most often consumed raw, made into a tea or extract, or as an ingredient in soups.

Gojis are most commonly available in dried form, and make a great snack eaten as is, added to trail mix, muesli or oatmeal. They can also be soaked for a couple of hours in enough water to cover them. Then the soak water can be drained off and makes a delicious drink, or both water and berries added to smoothies.

Please note that there can be adverse interactions if you consume goji berries while also taking medication for diabetes, or blood pressure, or take the blood thinner warfarin. So be sure to consult your health care provider if that is the case.

Gojis can often be found in Asian food stores, but most of these come from the commercial growing regions of China and Tibet, and contain high levels of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. Even some brands which claim to be organic may not be, so be sure to source your goji berries from a reputable source.

14. Gooseberries:

These are small round berries whose skin appears striped. These are green in color during the growing stage and ripe to become deep purple or yellow in color.

THe health benefits of the Indian Gooseberry or Amla can be attributed to the high vitamin C content. Amla enhances food absorption, balances stomach acid, fortifies the liver, nourishes the brain and mental functioning, supports the heart, strengthens the lungs, regulates elimination, enhances fertility, helps the urinary system, is good for the skin, promotes healthier hair, acts as a body coolant, flushes out toxins, increases vitality, strengthens the eyes, improves muscle tone and it acts as an antioxidant.

The Indian Gooseberry belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. This fruit is ripe in autumn season in wet forest of hill areas in Indian subcontinent. In India it is considered as a sacred tree. The fruit is very nourishing. It tastes sour. Both dried and fresh fruits can be used.

It provides remedies for many diseases so it is widely used in ayurvedic medicines. Gooseberry is very rich in Vitamin C. It contains many minerals and vitamins like Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron, Carotene and Vitamin B Complex. Amla is also a powerful antioxidant agent. Many health problems are conduced by oxidative damage (when body cells use oxygen they produce by-products that can cause damage). Antioxidant agents prevent and repair such damages. Vitamin C is a good antioxidant agent and so is Gooseberry.

The health benefits of amla include the following:

Hair care Amla is used in many hair tonics. It enriches hair growth and hair pigmentation. It strengthens roots of hair , maintains color and luster. Eating fresh fruit or applying its paste on hair roots improves hair growth and color. Amla oil is very popular in India as it serves as a very good hair growth booster thereby preventing hair loos.


Eye care: Taking Gooseberry juice with honey is good for improving eyesight. It improves nearsightedness and cataract. It reduces intraocular tension.

Diabetes: Gooseberry contains chromium. It has a therapeutic value in diabetics. Indian Gooseberry or Amla stimulate the isolated group of cells that secrete the hormone insulin.

Thus it reduces blood sugar in diabetic patient.

Heart disease: Gooseberry strengthens heart muscles. So heart pumps blood flawless throughout the body.

Infection: Due t o its antibacterial and astringent attributes the Indian Gooseberry protects against infection. It improves body resistance.

Diarrhea and dysentery: Due to its strong, cooling and laxative properties Gooseberry is useful for remedies for diarrhea and dysentery. It is a great relief for gastric syndrome and hyperchlorhydria (burning sensation in abdomen).

Improving appetite: Consuming Gooseberry powder with butter and honey before meal improves appetite. It helps in balancing Nitrogen level and thus increases weight in a healthy way.

Anti aging: Amla prevents health related hyperlipidaemia through attenuating oxidative stress in the ageing process.

The fresh fruit contains more than 80% water, protein, minerals, carbohydrates and fiber. It is also used as remedies for fever, liver disorder, indigestion, anemia, urinary problems, respiratory problems, cerebral, gastro and cardiovascular illness. Gooseberry lowers cholesterol level. It increases red blood cell production and strengthens teeth and nails. So the Indian gooseberry or Amla as a fresh fruit or juice or in dried form is much good for your health.

15. Hackberries:

This is a winter fruit that turns red or orange when ripe. Though it is edible, it is rarely used as food. However, it is quite a hit among wildlife and birds who love to munch on hackberries all through winters. Europe’s laid Mediterranean coasts and southern parts of the US are quick to take credit for this fruit, but this small, pellet-sized fruit grows quite well throughout Northern India. In fact, it probably has a longer history in India than Europe.

The taste of this fruit is sweet, but possesses a large white kernel in the middle of the berry. The pulp is described as “dry” but sugary, like a date. The very small fruit yet large seed means there’s only a small amount of edible flesh per berry; consequently, any recipe utilizing only the pulp requires significant prep work. The sweetness varies from tree to tree. Because it’s not a commercial crop, the tree has not been bred to produce a uniform flavor.

Nutritional Value of Hackberry

Little has been disclosed of hackberry’s nutritional value. Anecdotally, wild foragers cite the berry as nutritionally advantageous when the seed is ground and eaten alongside the pulp claiming it’s high in carbs, protein as well as fat.

The US Forest Service lists netleaf hackberry containing 14.35% protein, good in phosphoric acid (.38%), and even contains the mineral lime (6.27%).

Health Benefits of Hackberry

 

Conventional science offers many glowing praises for the health benefits of hackberries, too:

In a Scientia Pharmaceutica article, Scientists in Egypt found that hackberry leaves contain significant antioxidant and cytotoxic properties. The report cited these compounds as remedies against aging and cancer prevention.

Researchers in India concluded the bark has bacteriohopanoids

16. Juneberry:

In this June 26, 2013 photo provided by the Cornell Cooperative Extension, a fruit picker holds a quart basket of Juneberries at G&S Orchards in Walworth, N.Y. Horticultural researchers are encouraging Northeast farmers to grow Juneberries as an alternative crop. (AP Photo/Cornell Cooperative Extension, Jim Ochterski)

These red berries turn blue-black on ripening. They are similar to the size of blueberries. They are easily distinguished by the crown on the end, away from the stock.

They are great to make jams, muffins, cobblers,etc. June berries, commonly known as Saskatoons, are purplish-blue berries, similar to blueberries. These tasty pleasures have been a staple of Western Canada for hundreds of years, and are now available for enjoyment worldwide.

Very similar to blueberries in almost all characteristics that are important to the consumer, including fruit colour, shape, size, nutrition, texture, and uses. In addition, both fruits are native to North America, and they have practically identical historical uses and known health benefits. The quality of the fruit varies from one species to the next, but all are edible and most are very good. This is the most common type of edible berry in most of the continent. Saskatoon berries belong to the Rosaceae family, and the Amelanchier genus. Other fruits belonging to Rosaceae family include apples, pears, prunes, plums, cherries, apricots, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Saskatoon fruit has been grown on the Canadian prairies commercially, since the mid 1960’s. The current annual production is about 5-6 million kilograms. The cultivars of saskatoon berries grown in orchards commercially were selected from wild plants for their resistance to diseases, high yields and fruit quality, especially flavour, colour and texture of the berries. The mature fruit is a purple berry-like pome, 1-1.5 cm in diameter, practically identical to a blueberry.

Very rich source of flavonoids and one of the highest recorded antioxidant capacities of many fruits and vegetables. Greater than blueberries in many vitamins and minerals including calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, and vitamin E. Nearly twice as much fiber and protein.


Uses:
Amelanchier spp. can be eaten fresh, preserved/canned, dried, made in to cider, wine, beer, or tea. Currently, most are consumed fresh, baked into pies, or processed into jams and spreads. Today, new and innovative methods of processing, freezing and packaging have greatly increased berry uses. Improved harvesting and climate controlled environments have enabled distributors to significantly extend the shelf life of fresh berries.

Recent research indicates that June berries have higher level of antioxidants compared to other more common berries such as wild blueberries, strawberries or raspberries. In addition June berries are significantly higher in protein, calcium and fiber than blueberries while also being a great source of Vitamins A &C.

A great source of fiber! A ¾ cup (100gram) serving of June berries contains 6 grams of fiber or 24% of the daily requirement.

June berries just don’t quit when it comes to health and nutrition. June berries are a source of 5 essential vitamins and minerals. Exploring the health benefits of June berries today, is one step forward in reaching a healthy lifestyle.  Serviceberries: This berry-like pome is red to purple in color. It is a sweet berry that is used to make pies and jams.

17. Juniper Berries:

These berries are false berries that are actually modified cones. They are green when unripe and on ripening turn to purple-black. They are used to season pork, cabbage, and sauerkraut. They are also used to prepare gin.

The juniper tree’s growing region varies widely. It grows in Europe, North America, North Africa and Asia. The berries are perhaps best known as the flavoring agent for producing gin. The tree’s berries have also long been used medicinally. The ancient Greeks, Romans and Arabs used the fruit for treating myriad health problems. The primary chemical constituents of juniper berries include essential oils, flavonoids, tannins and vitamin C. Juniper berries are used when green and unripe for medicinal purposes, according to The Epicentre Encyclopedia of Spices.

When it comes to superfoods, berries are right on top of the list because they are crammed with beneficial antioxidants. One such berry that can help you a great deal is the juniper berry and over the years, scientific research has shown what a marvel it is.

Botanically speaking, the juniper berry isn’t an actual fruit but the juniper plant’s seed cone. It’s considered as a berry because of its scales. The juniper is an evergreen tree and
there are apparently 6 species of this tree whose berries are edible and used for a lot of beneficial purposes.

Juniper berries are widely used in European cooking, particularly meat based preparations as it lends a unique flavor. Gin lovers also might be surprised to learn that juniper berries are the main ingredient in gin. But the juniper berry is most well known for its reputation as a herbal remedy for an amazingly long list of diseases and ailments.

Juniper Berries Nutrients

Juniper berry is rich in nutrients, and provide many health benefits to the people. They possess many important nutrients, which are as follows:

Vitamins and minerals – juniper berries are rich in vitamin C and Vitamin B. they contain small amounts of calcium.

Volatile Oils – it also contains a substantial amount of volatile oil.

The percentage of various nutrients is as follows:

 

Health benefits of Juniper Berries

Improves Digestion

Juniper is a traditional treatment for digestive disorders. The berries contain bitter compounds that stimulate bile flow and aid digestion. They relieve upset stomach and other minor digestive disturbances. The berries function as a carminative, alleviating gas and intestinal cramping. Consuming juniper berries may impair absorption of iron, and those suffering from iron deficiency should use them with caution and consult a physician first.

Lowers Blood Sugar

Juniper berries lower blood glycemic levels, according to study published in 1994 in “Planta Medica.” The study’s researchers, led by Fermin Sánchez de Medina from the Universidad de Granada in Spain, found that juniper berries decrease glycemic levels by increasing the secretion of glucose-induced insulin. Researchers gave the berries to rats with artificially induced hyperglycemia, and they produced significant reduction in glucose levels.

Promotes Kidney Health

Juniper berries have been used for a long time to support kidney health. They have antimicrobial properties that help treat urinary tract, bladder and kidney infections. They also aid in removing wastes and acidic byproducts from the body. Compounds in the berries have diuretic effects, removing excess water from the body that may result in weight loss.

Consuming juniper berries may cause kidney problems for those suffereing from kidney disease, according to The Epicentre Encyclopedia of Spices.

Anti-Microbial Properties The juniper berry contains compounds that have antimicrobial properties, according to a study published in 2003 in the journal “Phytotherapy Research.” The study’s researchers, led by Natalia Filipowicz from the Medical University of Gdansk in Poland, found that juniper berry oil fights against bacteria and fungi. The researchers may have identified the responsible compounds, but said further research was needed to find conclusive evidence.

The juniper is indeed a useful tree as most of its parts are used for some sort of medicinal preparation or the other. So, the berries, leaves, bark and even oil derived from the berries and wood are used in various ways.

Essentially a bitter tasting berry, the juniper berry contains numerous volatile oils or essential oils, vitamin C, flavonoids, fiber and whole slew of active constituents that make it the power packed healer that it is. Note that juniper berries can be consumed in the form of teas and the crushed berries can be applied topically as well for a variety of ailments.

Here’s a look at some of the uses of the juniper berry and how it can help us lead healthier lives:

Juniper is considered to be a herb with the most powerful effects on kidneys. It is also used to treat various urinary tract infections and it can remove uric acid from the body.

Juniper makes the kidneys work faster and the body produces more urine, making it an excellent diuretic as well.

People facing water retention problems can experience a lot of relief with the juniper berry and its oil because of its diuretic properties.

Oil from the juniper berry has an antiseptic effect and it comes as a great relief to people suffering from cystitis and urethritis.

Suffering from digestive problems? The juniper berry might just be your answer as it can help reduce flatulence and colic and aid digestion. It also eases problems such as belching, bloating and heartburn. As a digestive aid, it’s excellent as it increases the appetite, relieves gas and boosts the production of gastric acid.

The juniper berry also has anti-inflammatory properties and it’s of great help to those suffering from arthritis, gout and other diseases such as rheumatism. These joint related ailments occur because of the fluid retention around these joints and the juniper berry with its diuretic action relieves this pressure considerably.

Skin ailments such as acne, dandruff and athlete’s foot can also be treated with topical application of the juniper berry.

Juniper helps in reviving the muscle tone and considerably reducing the effects of ageing for most people.

Menstrual cramps are often some of the most troublesome aspects of a woman’s life, but these can also be reduced significantly with the help of the juniper berry. Some herbalists even use the juniper to improve the uterus tone and to help those who have slow or late starting periods.

Concentrated oils of the juniper are used topically for lung congestion and coughs while it is also important in helping those suffering from respiratory infections. The volatile oils help in easing up bronchial passages and removing mucus.

It has a high concentration of insulin and helps in healing the pancreas.

Essential oils derived from juniper berries can help in relieving toothache and making gums stronger. It can also be used to control hair fall.

Finally, the juniper berry is used by many to lose weight and since it even cleanses the toxins from the body, it is a great overall purifier as well.

18. Ligon Berries:


They are also called cowberries, foxberries, and mountain cranberries that are red in color. It is used to make ligon berry jam, juice, syrup, compote, sauce, etc. It is rich in vitamin C, provitamin A, vitamin B (B1, B2, B3), potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous.

Lingonberries or vaccinium vitis-idaea, are red tart berries that flock the wild shrubs of Scandinavia and form an indispensable part of Nordic cuisine. These little-known distant cousins of cranberry fruit are much smaller and juicier than their other berry counterparts and are a potent source of preservatives and pectins. Known for their lovely appearance and bright color, these yummy-looking berries have a bitter taste and are best enjoyed as sweetened jams and other gourmet food. Also popular as cowberry, rock cranberry, foxberry and even whimberry, lingonberries come packed with copious nutritive and therapeutic benefits. Lingonberries are potent bearers of essential vitamins, minerals, acids and are treated as an antizyme. They are known to benefit anyone suffering from high blood pressure, poor digestion, frail metabolism and infections. To know more on the essential health benefits of this tangy red berry, read on.

Nutrition Benefits of Eating Lingonberry

Lingonberry, affectionately referred as the 漸ueen of Berries’ has a nice refreshing taste and is known to boost up the appetite. This wild berry comes packed with a bevy of health and nutritive benefits and is known to profit human health in more ways than one.

Lingonberry is highly esteemed in the medicinal world for its diverse spectrum of therapeutic actions. Lingonberry serves both as a diuretic and choleretic and is known to strengthen capillary tube too. The berries are treated as carditonic and hypotensive too.

The pearly red lingonberries are supposedly one of the richest sources of polyphenols. Lingonberries contain berry biocomplex that is believed to have an anti-sclerotic effect. They are also believed to be a rich source of copper, an essential mineral that helps in treating pancreatic diabetes.

Lingonberry is a popular cure for liver ailments, gastritis, hypertony and gastric ulcer. Its capacity to regulate salt metabolism makes it an effective remedy for treating diseases like renal lithiasis, uratic arthritis and rheumatism. Lingonberry also has antiseptic properties and can be used as an astringent too.

Lingonberry contains tannins that help to boost the blood vessel walls, resolve mineral metabolism and neutralize toxins, thereby improving digestion and toning up the body.

Lingonberries are touted as excellent cure for urinary tract infections. These pearly red, ripe berries are found to contain short-chained proanthocyans that is believed to keep away the infection causing bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall. Lingonberry juice when taken along with cranberry juice regularly is likely to reduce the risk of urinary tract infection in women by forty percent.

These small berries are believed to be excellent source of vitamin A, B and C and are power-packed with other essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium and potassium. Because of their rich nutritional value, lingonberries are believed to favor both blood and bone health.

Apart from being rich in essential nutrients, these humble berries are a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Lingonberries are also found to be a potent source of essential fatty acids and are highly esteemed because of their anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Regular consumption of lingonberries keeps the free radicals from spreading in the body.

Lingonberries, just like their better-known cranberry cousins, are a storehouse of flavonoids, especially quercetin. Apart from having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, quercetin has antihistamine properties that help to alleviate allergy symptoms.

Like most other berries, lingonberries are known to boost the levels of good cholesterol, improve blood pressure. They are thereby held as a productive source of heart health.

Animal studies have shown how the lingonberry can lower inflammatory molecules, block oxidants from destroying tissue, and also help the body replace important antioxidants, like glutathione, which is a master antioxidant in our body. Lingonberry has also been shown to increase red blood cell and liver enzymes needed for antioxidant protection. We need antioxidants to protect vessels and nerve tissue, and also to help decrease the damage from inflammation. Proanthocyanidin extracts from lingonberries were also found to be effective against the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause a wide variety of infections.

Lingonberry Health Benefits

Lingonberry contains quercetin, it may have a lot of health benefits. And, here we highlight a few potential lingonberry
benefits:

Antioxidant / Anti-cancer cells activity of lingonberry

Lingonberry has been shown to contain high antioxidant activity. Researchers isolated six tannins from linonberry. and found that cinnamtannin B1 displayed the strongest anti-lipid peroxidation activity, proanthocyanidin A-1 displayed the strongest superoxide scavenging activity, and epicatechin-(4beta–> 6)-epicatechin-(4beta–>8, 2beta–>O–> 7)-catechin had the strongest anti-superoxide formation effect. And, crude extracts of lingonberry were able to inhibit ornithine decarboxylase activity. The proanthocyanidin fraction of lingonberry exhibited anticarcinogenic activity. Researchers from U.S. Department of Agriculture reported that lingonberries contained potent free radical scavenging activities for DPPH*, ROO*, *OH, and O2*- radicals. They further reported that lingonberry extract was able to suppress TPA-induced neoplastic transformation of JB6 P(+) mice cells and lingonberry extract could also induce apoptosis (death) of human leukemia HL-60 cells in a dose-independent manner. Thus, lingonberry may benefit people at risk of certain cancers, but more studies are needed to prove this idea.

Lingonberry’s antimicrobial effects and its effect on urinary tract infection Lingonberry may benefit people suffered from certain infections. In a study, six tannins from lingonberry showed anti-microbial activities and epicatechin-(4beta–>8)-epicatechin-(4beta–>8, 2beta–>O–>7)-catechin had a strong antimicrobial activity against P. gingivalis and P.

intermedia, but not A. actinomycetemcomitans. While, the other tannins tested did not show antimicrobial activity. In a separated study, scientists recruited 150 women with rinary tract infection caused by Escherichia coli and they served them with 50 ml of cranberry-lingonberry juice concentrate daily for six months or 100 ml of lactobacillus drink five days a week for one year, or no intervention. They found a 20% reduction in absolute risk in the cranberry-lingonberry group compared with the control group.

19. Loganberries:


These are ruby-red, sweet, juicy berries that turn purple-red when ripe. They are used to prepare juices. Loganberries contain vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium, fiber, and carbohydrates. Loganberries are a cross between red raspberries and blackberries. They are packed full of nourishing nutrients that help keep the body healthy and strong naturally.

You can use these berries to make tasty mouthwatering treats such as pies, jams, cobblers and salads. However, harvesting these berries when they are ready to be picked can be a bit tricky since they are surrounded by thorns.

Some of the most nourishing hybrid berries to snack on and make treats with are Loganberries. Loganberries were accidentally created when a man in California planted a blackberry bush next to a red raspberry bush and they pollinated together.

Appearance, Flavor and Texture

Loganberries are deep reddish in color and grow on thorny bushes with tons of oval shaped green leaves. The berries are slightly bigger than raspberries and blackberries and have plump fleshy textures to them. The flavor of the berries is sweet and tart, which makes them perfect for making jellies, jams, pies, smoothies, fruit salads and parfaits.

Nutrients in Loganberries

Health Benefits of Loganberries

Loganberries are some of the healthiest berries to snack on because they can help prevent common health conditions naturally such as constipation, colds, the flu, gout, stress, anxiety, fatigue and depression. The berries are even excellent to eat to help fight of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The antioxidants in loganberries can help prevent several types of cancers naturally as well such as skin, breast, colon, stomach, prostate and lung. Adding loganberries to your daily diet can even help slow down the signs of aging and keep your skin glowing and radiant due to all the vitamins and minerals in these delicious juicy berries. A diet full of wholesome, organic, ingredients can improve your health, as well as help the natural environment.

Loganberries may be eaten without preparation as well as used as an ingredient in jams, pies, crumbles, fruit syrups and country wines. Loganberries, in common with other blackberry/raspberry hybrids, can be used interchangeably with raspberries or blackberries in most recipes.

* A use common to Southern Ontario, Canada, and Western New York, USA, is Loganberry Juice. While the Loganberry is primarily harvested in the Western United States, growers there were unaware that a niche market existed for a Loganberry-derived drink to the east.

* According to local lore, the loganberry drink was developed by entrepreneurs in the late 1800s at Crystal Beach, a local summertime resort, and one time amusement park, in Southern Ontario.

* The drink continued to be served at the amusement park and is still produced there. The most popular commercial version is Aunt Rosie’s, which is commonly enjoyed in Western New York.

20. Marionberries:


These are a cross between Chehalem and Ollallieberry. They are glossy and darker than blackberries and are used to prepare pies, ice creams, jellies, etc.

Oregonians just can’t keep Marionberries a secret any longer. Long revered in the West as a culinary treasure, Marionberries are finally out of the closet and into the kitchens of celebrated and little known chefs everywhere.

Marion Blackberry or Marionberry. Introduced by George F. Waldo in 1956 and adapted to Western Oregon, the Marionberry is named after Marion County, where it was tested extensively. The berry is medium to large, round and somewhat longer than wide. The Marionberry is a trailing vigorous grower, generally producing only a few long canes which grow up to 20 feet. The spines are large and numerous, and fruiting laterals are long and strong, with many fruit. The Marionberry produces up to 5-6 tons per acre. Marionberries
are quality berries, with a better flavor than the Boysen or Evergreen. Marionberries are well-suited for use in local fresh markets and for commercial or home canning, freezing, pies, ice cream flavoring, jams, and jellies.

Admired for their unique and complex flavor profile, Marionberries have an essence that captures the warmth of a summer day in the great Northwest and releases it in your mouth like a lovely memory. Their vibrant purple color packs a powerful nutritional punch that catapults Marionberries to the top of the antioxidant charts. With an underlying earthiness, hints of sweet and a lively tartness, wholesome Marionberries present an explosion of flavor and well-being that is larger than life.

Oregon’s Willamette Valley has long been considered to be berry paradise by fruit buyers and berry devotees worldwide, with over 50 varieties of berries cultivated for sale to worldwide markets. A unique maritime climate with long, mild spring weather allows Oregon berries to grow slowly, creating a tapestry of rich and intense flavor compounds.

Cool summer evenings send Oregonians for their jackets, but allow the berries more hang time to plump up and approach ripeness with repose. In Oregon, we don’t allow our berries to grow up too quickly!

Picked fresh from July to August, Oregon farmers grow 30 million pounds of Marionberries yearly. With over 100 years in the berry business, Oregon’s growers and processors are experts in cultivation, harvesting techniques and processing technology. Marionberries picked at the peak of ripeness can be cooled and individually frozen within hours, providing consumers with a perfectly ripened berry year round. Yet, when thawed, Oregon Marionberries keep their shape, providing integrity for beautiful sauces and garnish, or for eating by the bowlful.

Marionberries are also available in puree, concentrate, block frozen, dried, freeze-dried and canned forms. The alluring flavor and aroma of the Marionberry is becoming legend, with national companies including Orange Julius, Trader Joe’s, Costco and Starbucks forging the Marionberry trail. Traditionally used in pies, jams, syrups, and cobblers, Marionberries’ wide appeal now includes smoothies, ice cream and sorbets, sweet or savory sauces, marinades, and upscale desserts.

Scientists now believe our most powerful medicinal tools reside in our refrigerators, not our pharmacies. Colorful fruits and vegetables contain potent phytochemicals that help our bodies fight heart disease, aging and cancer. Marionberries, with their vibrant purple color, contain strong antioxidants – powerful natural zappers of free radicals, the unstable oxygen compounds in our bodies that are associated with heart disease and the effects of aging. Phytochemicals, such as ellagic acid, anthocyanins and other phenolic compounds in Marionberries have been found to have anticarcinogenic properties.

Health Benefits of Marionberries

High in ellagic acid (5.83 mg/g), which is known to help prevent cancer.
High in antioxidants (28 μmole per gram, compared to 24 per gram in blueberries.)

Contains high levels of strong antioxidants such as Vitamin C, gallic acidand rutin that help promote circulatory health and fight against cancer.

Contains high levels of anthocyanins (109-155 mg per 100g),which can also protect against cancer, heart andcirculatory diseases and age-related mental decline.

Eating whole berries has been shown in scientific studies to be morebeneficial that taking the individual phytochemicals (a class of healthful chemical substances found in plants) in the form of dietary supplements.

 

 

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