The popular black currant juice is extracted from black currants. Read on to know its health benefits and some unknown facts about it.
Kulbhushaan Raghuvanshi
Black currant is a small fruit-growing plant that belongs to the flowering family of ribes berry. The fruit can be included in your diet. Its largest producer is the United Kingdom.
During the World War II, fruits rich in vitamin C were not enough in United Kingdom. Since the climate there suited the growth of these currants, the British government encouraged their cultivation on a larger scale.
Characteristics
The plants grow up to 2 meters in height.
The leaves are broad and long, and they grow up to 5 cm.
The fruits are shiny and deep purple in color and are grown in the summer season.
They have a tangy taste, but are comparatively sweeter than their lesser-known cousin - the red currant, which is extensively used in jams.
It is a great alternative to cranberry juice. It is rich in antioxidants and medicinal properties and is ideal for an upset stomach.
Nutritional Benefits
Berries are often referred as super berries because of the high, antioxidant levels found in them. Black currant is a favorite berry among people because of the high level of vitamins, fiber, and other benefits found in it.
The juice has been found beneficial to humans in a number of ways. Research says that it contains twice the amount of antioxidants found in blueberries, 4 times the amount of vitamin C found in oranges, and twice the amount of potassium found in bananas.
Doctors from New Zealand and Sweden also claim that its consumption controls blood pressure, improves skin conditions such as psoriasis and dermatitis, and is beneficial for healthy eyesight.
Some websites also claim that the content of vitamin C found in this juice is higher than any other cultivated fruit or vegetable.
University research teams also speak volumes on its benefits. Research teams all across the globe are studying the compounds found in purple black currants for treatment of many fatal diseases like dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
If consumed on a regular basis, it improves kidney function and also helps in treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Nutritionists also say it enhances the effects of regular exercise.
It is a natural remedy for the treatment of diarrhea and whooping cough.
Simple Juice Recipe
Clean the black currants by dumping them in a sink full of cold water.
Also, wash them under running water, and pour them into a large pan.
Don't forget to detach the stems and leaves.
Heat the pan on low heat. Don't add water. The black currants are wet enough after rinsing.
On low heat, keep stirring them occasionally, until the currants start releasing their juice.
Pour the pulp into a ricer. With the help of a pestle, smash the skins to get the rest of the juice out.
As the pan of the ricer fills up, pour the juice from the pan to another bowl.
Cocktail Recipe
Mixing alcohol with a number of liquids makes an interesting and refreshing drink. Check out the recipe of a famous cocktail made with this juice.
Red Moon Cocktail
Ingredients:
Black currant juice, 5 oz.
Club soda, 1½ oz.
Becherovka, 1 oz.
Preparation:
Take a highball glass, and fill it up with ice.
Add club soda, becherovka, and the juice.
Stir well and serve.
Black currant juice is an all-rounder juice, not only because of its great taste, but also because it is a natural medicine. Include it in your diets, and reap its benefits.
Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.