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Black Currant

Black Currant

OTHER NAME(S): Black Currant Seed Oil, European Black Currant, Groseille Noir, Kurokarin, Nabar, Paper, Ribes Nigri Folium (black currant leaf), Ribes Nero, Ribes nigrum, Blackcurrant, Black Currants, Grosella Negra, Cassis

Overview

Black currant (Ribes nigrum) is a shrub that grows to about 1-2 meters tall. It makes edible, purple-black berries that taste sweet and contain a seed.

Black currant seed oil contains a chemical called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA might improve immune function and help decrease swelling. Black currant berries contain chemicals called anthocyanins, which have antioxidant effects. There is interest in these chemicals to prevent skin aging and wrinkles.

People use black currant for eczema, gout, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, muscle fatigue, wound healing, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse black currant with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), omega-6 fatty acids, borage, evening primrose, or flaxseed oil. These are not the same.

References
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