Black currant – Ribes nigrum

Black currant (blackcurrant) – Ribes nigrum belongs to the genus of shrubs; it is a perennial plant reaching up to 2 meters in height. It is native to temperate parts of central and northern Europe and northern Asia where it prefers damp fertile soils.

Branches and stem of this plant are bare; the leaves are alternate having small hairs on the reverse. Black current’s flower is petty and can be purple, greenish or pink; while the fruit is a round black and berry with a sour taste.



Black current grows well in areas characterized with cool summers, with greater rainfalls and higher humidity. Moreover, black currant belongs to fruit species with the greatest resistance to low and winter temperatures down to -30 degrees Celsius.

Medicinal use of Black currant – Ribes nigrum

Black currant leaves and fruit are used as a remedy. The fruit is particularly abundant with vitamin C, so it is used against vitamin C deficiency. The black currant is considered to be the greatest source of antioxidants. It is used for stimulating the appetite and strengthening the immune system. Black currant is also used for strengthening the vision and capillaries.

Other Uses

Black currant berries can be eaten raw but are usually cooked in a variety of sweet or savory dishes. They are used to make jams, jellies, and syrups. The fruit is also used in the preparation of alcoholic beverages and both fruit and foliage are used in traditional medicine and the preparation of dyes.

Translated from the book:
"Medicinal plants - Your miraculous remedy"
Author: Zivko Najdovski
Medicinal plants and herbs
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