Fruit - Black Current

Blackcurrent

Principle	Nutrient Value	Percentage of RDA
Energy	63 Kcal	3%
Carbohydrates	15.38 g	12%
Protein	1.4 g	2.5%
Total Fat	0.41 g	2%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Dietary Fiber	4.3 g	11%
Vitamins
Folates	8 µg	2%
Niacin	0.300 mg	2%
Pantothenic acid	0.398 mg	8%
Pyridoxine	0.066 mg	5%
Riboflavin	0.050 mg	4%
Thiamin	0.050 mg	4%
Vitamin A	230 IU	7.5%
Vitamin C	181 mg	301%
Electrolytes
Sodium	2 mg	0%
Potassium	322 mg	7%
Minerals
Calcium	55 mg	5.5%
Copper	0.086 mg	9.5%
Iron	1.54 mg	19.5%
Magnesium	24 mg	6%
Manganese	0.256 mg	11%
Phosphorus	59 mg	8.5%
Zinc	0.27 mg	2%

1. Anti for inflmaation and neurological diseases:Black currants have significantly high amounts of phenolic flavonoid phytochemicals called anthocyanins.Scientific studies have shown that consumption of blackcurrants have potential health.
   Black currants have excellent anti-bacterial properties as they are loaded with two chemical compounds – tannin and anthocyanin. Both of them can prevent the growth of bacteria within the urinary tract.
2. Oral and Lungs cancer:Black currants are very good in vitamin A, and flavonoid anti-oxidants such as beta-carotene, zea-xanthin and cryptoxanthin levels. 100 g fresh berries provide 230 IU of vitamin A. These compounds are known to have antioxidant properties. Vitamin A is also required for maintaining integrity of mucus membranes and skin, and essential for healthy eye-sight. Furthermore, consumption of natural fruits rich in flavonoid anti-oxidants helps to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.
3. Improves Immunity:These berries are an excellent source of antioxidant vitamin, vitamin-C. 100 g of fresh currants provide more than 300% of daily-recommended intake values of vitamin C. Research studies have shown that consumption of fruits rich in vitamin C helps the body develop immunity against infectious agents and also help scavenge harmful oxygen-free radicals from the body.
4. Improves Blood:They also contain good amounts of mineral iron. 100 g currant berries provide about 20% of daily recommended levels. Iron is an important co-factor for cytochrome oxidase guided cellular metabolism. It is also required for red blood cell (RBC) production in the bone marrow.
5. Women Related Diseases:Women use black currant seed oil for treating symptoms of menopause, premenstrual syndrome, painful periods, and breast tenderness. It is also used for boosting immunity.
6. Insects Bites:Black currant leaves have been infamous for treating wounds and insect bites when applied directly!
7. Resists from Alcohol:Moreover, acids in fruit may also be useful in preventing liver toxicity and withdrawal symptoms pertaining to alcohol!
8. The blackcurrants dried leaves are considered to be highly effective in treating sore throats, coughs, cold, disinfecting urine, treating bladder flow and other benefits related to the renal system!
9. For Heart and BP:Blackcurrants consist of an antioxidant namely, ‘gamma linoleic acid’ which helps in promoting cardiovascular health. Certain clinical researches have displayed results whereby this particular antioxidant coupled with omega 3 fatty acids has helped improve blood pressure levels.
10. Asthma Relief:Research has shown for blackcurrants to comprise of certain antioxidants that reduce the incidence of asthma related allergy attacks very effectively.
11. Ementia Prevention:Dementia is essentially a loss of brain function that occurs due to certain diseases. Blackcurrants as per research are documented to be consistent of certain antioxidants that act as a strong shield against dementia and can help in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease!
12. Eye Sight:Vitamin A content of black currents is helpful in maintaining your eye health. It helps you avoid vision loss by increasing your eyesight and visual power.

1. Omega 6 And A Younger You!:This miniscule fruity wonder consists of omega 6 fatty acids which is useful in preventing premature ageing and wrinkle formation! It helps you maintain that tight, younger, radiant skin and also has the added health benefit of treating eczema.
2. Hair:Regular intake of black currants can save your tresses- They comprise Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that prevents frequent hair fall and promotes hair growth.
   Besides averting hair loss, black currants help you battle several other health issues. These include dryness of scalp, hair splitting and excessive hair breakage.

1. Alter blood pressure:The gamma linoleic acid found in blackcurrant can occasionally alter blood pressure. Those individuals who have high blood pressure issues should consume the fruit cautiously! Also, those individuals who are on blood thinners should avoid blackcurrants, along with those individuals who are on vitamin C supplements. However, substituting vitamin C supplements by blackcurrants would be a wiser choice as they are a natural and hence, safer source.

1. Season Available:Black currants season lasts from July until October.
2. Selection:Fresh currants feature deep-purple, almost black, with a glossy skin and a persistent calyx at the apex. Avoid berries that are soft, shriveled skin and with cuts/bruises with leaking juice.
3. Storing:If the fruits are to be stored at all, they should be picked dry. If not used immediately, store them in the refrigerator where they keep fresh for several days.
   Some people apply black currant leaf directly to the skin for treating wounds and insect bites.
4. Serving:Wild currants that are picked up from their natural habitat can be consumed directly. While purchasing from the stores, choose berries with uniform surface and color. Wash them in cold water just prior to use to keep their texture intact. Raw, fresh or dried currants can be eaten all alone as snacks; especially red, pink and white varieties which are sweeter and delicious.
5. Safety:

Cooking Tips:

1. Tart, astringent quality black currants are favored in many culinary dishes, especially boiled and pureed, across Europe.
2. They give refreshing taste when added in fruit cocktails.
3. Black currants are being used in the preparation of muffins, pie fillings, and ice creams.
4. The berries are used in food industry in preparation of sauce, jam, jelly.
5. The berries are also used in flavored drink production.