Health Benefits Of Blackberries

Thanks to its properties and the contribution of antioxidants, you can take advantage of the benefits of blackberries to take advantage of their nutrients.

Do you know what are some benefits of blackberries? This wild fruit is capable of providing several essential nutrients to the body and that can also be very beneficial when used in a healthy and balanced diet.

Despite their small size, they contain a good amount of antioxidants. They also have a delicious flavor, and can be consumed raw or in a wide variety of desserts, salads, juices and smoothies. But it is worth remembering that blackberries are not only appreciated in gastronomy, but also in aesthetics and natural medicine.

What nutrients do blackberries provide?

From the Association 5 a day they tell us that:

In light of this, blackberries are considered to have antioxidant properties, which are beneficial for health in various aspects: from caring for the skin to strengthening multiple organs and systems of the body.

Among some of its benefits, the following article published in 2011 by the American Chemical Society highlights:

• Its ability to prevent infections related to the respiratory tract and slow down degenerative eye diseases.
• The so-called blackberries have rejuvenating properties that will be explained below. 
• Due to their flavonoid content, they protect cells from environmental damage (pollution, radiation, etc.).
• The antioxidants in blackberries contribute to maintaining the health of the entire body, as well as keeping the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood under control.
• They also have anti-inflammatory effects that are useful in case of inflammation.

What are the main benefits of blackberries?

The amount of nutrients that these dark colored fruits have is more than enough reason to consume them and incorporate them into a varied and healthy diet. In particular, blackberries are recommended in specific cases for what we are going to develop next.

1. They contribute to the health of the immune system

Due to its contribution of alkaloids, this fruit would have the ability to help increase the body’s defense system. This is because blackberries activate macrophages , cells responsible for reinforcing protective barriers in case of inflammation or infection, thus making it difficult for bacteria or viruses to enter.

2. They provide glucose

The glucose contained in ripe blackberries is capable of positively balancing the amounts of sugar in the blood. That is, it would be able to reduce the physical needs of consuming this compound in other types of unhealthy sources (for example, sweets or pastries).

3. They provide iron

Blackberries contain a certain amount of iron. Thus, within a diet endorsed by a specialist, they would be a good option for those who suffer from anemia caused by the lack of this mineral.

4. Reduce irritation

As indicated by research carried out by the Zhengzhou Fruit Research Institute (China), blackberry has anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, if you want to take advantage of this property, use the leaves of the plant.

Combined with turmeric, you can make an ointment to combat irritation caused, for example, by an insect bite or by contact with a harmful herb.

Blackberry leaves are good, in turn, to prevent clot formation, relieve sores, open wounds or eczema, but it is advisable to consult a dermatologist before using them to prevent adverse reactions. Especially if we suffer from a skin disorder.

5. Protect the brain

According to a study carried out at the Institute of Neuroethology of the Veracruzana University, blackberries act as a neuroprotective; as well as it would also be a cognitive enhancer. In addition, it is believed that they would have the ability to slow down the effects of certain neurodegenetic diseases, but more research is needed in this regard.

So, before a test or a difficult job, you can eat a handful of these fruits. Or just try to include them regularly in a balanced diet, to get the most out of their benefits.

Benefits of blackberries for aesthetics

These fruits not only improve health from the inside, but are also considered to be ideal for topical skin treatments. In this sense, you can take advantage of them and enjoy them as a dessert, or even use them as an ingredient to make masks.

However, try to consult a dermatologist before applying them to the skin to avoid any problems; since they are natural ingredients that can react differently depending on the person.

1. They hydrate

85% of the blackberry is water. The rest is a combination of nutrients (including fiber). Therefore, consuming them at least once a week is good for maintaining the elasticity of the skin. In addition, you can prepare a mask and use it externally.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup of blackberries (37 g).
• 1 teaspoon of honey (7.5 g).

Preparation

• Wash the fruits well and place them in a container.
• Grind with the help of a mortar to form a paste.
• Add the honey and mix well.
• Apply to face and neck once washed.
• Allow the mask to dry completely before rinsing it off with lukewarm water.

2. They take care of the skin

Blackberry seeds contain Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, perfect for maintaining healthy skin. In addition, the pulp offers vitamins A, C and K which, according to an article published by the Ars Pharmaceutica Magazine , are recommended to prevent premature aging.

Make a mask and apply it to your face to take advantage of the benefits of blackberries.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup of blackberries (37 g).
• 2 tablespoons of natural yogurt (24 g).
• 1 pinch of nutmeg.
• The juice of ½ lemon.

Preparation

• In a container, place the washed blackberries.
• Add the yogurt, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
• Crush the mixture with a mortar (you can also use the blender).
• Apply to cleansed face and neck.
• Leave on for half an hour and then rinse with warm water.

3. Help control oily skin

Those with oily skin can take advantage of the benefits of blackberries.

In this sense, the information is supported by the following article published in 2017 by the International Journal of Chemical and Biochemical Sciences . However, before using them, we recommend consulting a dermatologist for safety. 

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of blackberries (20 g).
• 2 tablespoons of grated soap (20 g).
• 3 drops of tea tree oil.

Preparation

• First, wash the blackberries and grate the soap.
• Put both ingredients in a bowl and add the essential oil.
• Mix well and form a thick paste.
• Dampen the face and apply in circular motions.
• After 2 minutes, rinse off with lukewarm water.

Take advantage of the health benefits of blackberries in a balanced diet

Do you dare to incorporate this fruit into a varied and balanced diet? If you have any questions, be sure to consult a trusted nutritionist. He will give you the keys to include it in a healthy way.

Try it and take advantage of its benefits.