Blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum)
This plant is indigenous to Eurasian forests as far as the Himalayas, Canada and Australia. This sturdy perennial bush grows up to 2 m high. The multi-seeded, black, glandular berries develop from the ovary.

Parts used:
Fruit
Botany
This plant is indigenous to Eurasian forests as far as the Himalayas, Canada and Australia. This sturdy perennial bush grows up to 2 m high. The multi-seeded, black, glandular berries develop from the ovary.
Constituents
Rich in many phytonutrients, (antioxidants, vitamins, essential fatty acids) and minerals. Particularly renowned for their high content in vitamin C, GLA (Gamma- Linoleic acid) Omega-6 essential fatty acid and potassium as well as flavonoids (rutin, isoquercitrin and myricetin) and anthocyans.
Possible Interactions
Herbs - None documented. Drugs - None known
Comments
Blackcurrant seed oil is particularly rich in essential fatty acids (6-19% gammalinoleic acid and 13% alphalinolenic acid). GLA reduces production of IL-1 which is involved in inflammation in diseases such as arthritis. Initial research suggests an anti- inflammatory action. Blackcurrant extract has also been shown to increase peripheral blood flow in a blinded human study.
➥ Pharmacopoeia and Other Monographs
BP 2007, USP 29