Blackberries

Blackberries are shrubs that belong to the rose family. As a bramble, blackberry fields produce fruit every other year. There are many types of
blackberries, including: Himalaya, Marion, Silvan, Evergreen, and Black Diamond. Evergreen blackberries are the main type sold. Blackberries are
often used in hybrids such as boysenberry and loganberry.

The Evergreen blackberry was known to have grown throughout northern Europe and was especially prominent in England centuries before settlers
brought them to the eastern United States in 1850. Migratory birds helped spread the seeds westward, where they took prominence along the
Pacific Coast. The Himalaya blackberry came from Germany to the United States, but its true origins can be found in Asia. This type of blackberry
is quite common in the Pacific Northwest. Blackberries can be found growing in abundance on the Cascade and Sierra Mountain ranges.

Where Are Blackberries Grown?

Chile, the United States, Guatemala, Mexico, Ecuador, and Romania are the world’s top growers. Oregon, California, Texas, Georgia, and
Arkansas top the list in the U.S.

Should I Eat Blackberries?

Blackberries are high in antioxidants: An in vitro study found that blackberries had the highest antioxidant capacity when compared with
blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, and raspberries. They are also rich in vitamin C, fiber, and in the phytochemicals tannin, flavonoid, and
cyanidin, which have anticarcinogenic properties. Blackberries also contain catechins, such as quercetin, which is an antioxidant that can reduce
the risk of heart disease and stop the action of histamine for people with allergies.

Home Remedies

A combination of distilled water and blackberries made into a drink and taken regularly in the morning is known to promote laxation. Either chewing
on blackberry leaves or drinking the aforementioned beverage may help provide relief from bleeding gums and sore throats. To relieve and soothe
burns, gently rub blackberry leaves on the burned area.

Lifesaver!

COLON AND LIVER CANCER: Human cell studies have shown that components in blackberries capture free radicals and prevent damage to

liver and colon cells.

LUNG CANCER: Studies done on human lung cancer cells have shown that blackberry extracts inhibited further growth of the cancer. A rat

study demonstrated for the first time that an anthocyanin extract from blackberries (cyanidin-3-glucoside) inhibited tumor promotion and metastasis
(the spreading of cancer cells).

ESOPHAGEAL CANCER: Blackberries have been shown to inhibit and reduce the growth rate of esophageal cancer in laboratory rats.

 Tips on Using Blackberries

SELECTION AND STORAGE:

• Look for deep, even color with a glossy look to the berries.
• Look for dents or bruising as this will cause berries to deteriorate quickly.
• Keep them refrigerated. They can only be kept for one to three days and taste best when consumed immediately.

PREPARATION AND SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Wash blackberries in cold water just before using. If you decide to freeze them, wash them in cold water and immediately place them in a
freezer-safe container.
• Eat blackberries plain, in yogurt or cereal, or put them in a fruit salad.
• Make jellies or jams with frozen berries.
• Blackberries are great for use in pies, cookies, and bars.
• Ferment blackberry juice for homemade red wine.