Blackcurrant

Ribes nigrum
A small berry with mighty power — a vitamin-rich ally for your immunity, skin, and gut

Blackcurrant is one of nature’s most underrated superfoods. These tiny dark spheres hold more vitamin C than lemons, pack powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and support nearly every system in your body.
They not only strengthen your immune defenses and support digestion — they also have rejuvenating effects, inside and out.

Nutritional values (per 100 g dried blackcurrants)

What does blackcurrant help with?

• ADHD – thanks to its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties (anthocyanins + vitamin C)
• Insulin resistance – high fiber and low glycemic load support healthy blood sugar balance
• Type 2 diabetes – helps lower blood glucose and protect pancreatic function
• Leaky gut syndrome – soothes the gut lining and feeds good bacteria
• Boosts immunity with one of the highest natural sources of vitamin C
• Supports natural detoxification, especially liver pathways
• Provides neuroprotection — helps protect brain cells and cognitive health
• Enhances skin and capillary regeneration

Traditional medicine and herbal uses

• Blackcurrant leaves are used in infusions for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties
• Fruits (dried, juiced, or powdered) strengthen blood vessels and reduce oxidative stress
• Seed oil is rich in GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) and recommended for inflammatory skin conditions, eczema, and psoriasis
• Traditionally used for gout relief and to reduce joint swelling

Culinary uses

Blackcurrant’s strong tangy flavor makes it perfect for:

• Smoothies with herbs, yogurt, or kefir
• Sugar-free jams, fruit purées, and jellies
• Adding to oatmeal, granola, or pancakes
• Sauces for meats (especially wild game or duck)
• Fruit teas with orange peel or ginger
• Powders for baking and raw desserts

Cosmetic uses

• Blackcurrant seed oil helps restore damaged skin and calm inflammation
• Ideal for sensitive, dry, or atopic skin
• Powdered blackcurrant masks can brighten and smooth the complexion
• Rich in antioxidants that fight signs of aging
• Hydrosol from leaves can be used as a natural toner or anti-acne mist

Best ingredient pairings

• Combine with freeze-dried raspberry or aronia for vascular support
• Add cacao for brain and mood benefits
• Blend with ginger and turmeric for anti-inflammatory synergy
• Mix with flaxseed for digestion and gut lining support

Recommended intake

• Children: 1–2 teaspoons daily
• Adults: 1–2 tablespoons daily
• Leaf tea: 1 teaspoon of dried leaves per cup of boiling water, steep for 10 minutes
• Seed oil: 0.5–1 teaspoon daily internally or apply directly on skin

Storage tips

• Dried fruit: keep in an airtight container, cool and dry, away from light
• Seed oil: store in the fridge, protected from sunlight
• Powder: store in a dry, sealed glass jar

Did you know…?

Blackcurrants contain 4 times more vitamin C than lemons, and the Latin name Ribes nigrum reflects its deep black color.
During the communist era in Poland, it was viewed as just a “compote fruit” — now it’s making a comeback as a premium-class superfood.
In France, it’s the base of the famous liqueur Crème de Cassis, but a smoothie with flaxseed and blackcurrant is a far better choice — especially for your gut.

And you?

• When was the last time you had blackcurrants?
• Does your diet support your immunity, gut, and skin from within?
• Have you experienced blackcurrant’s benefits on blood vessels or the nervous system?
• Do you prefer it in tea, purée, or DIY skincare?
• Have you ever tried an infusion of blackcurrant leaves?

We’d love to hear your story — let’s grow a living library of healing food wisdom together.