Many people know blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) simply as a type of thorn bush. This is actually a medicinal plant with a variety of health benefits.
For example, blackthorn is effective against inflammation, stomach cramps and constipation, protects against diabetes and has antioxidant and blood pressure-lowering properties.
Health-promoting ingredient in blackthorn
The blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) is a medicinal plant that is widespread in Eurasia and is a member of the rose family (Rosaceae) and is known, for example, under the names blackthorn, sour plum, saudorn and Kietschke plum.
The plant is full of ingredients that are good for your health. It contains iron, potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium, flavonoids, tannins, fruit acids, flavon glycosides, pectin, rutin, sugar and vitamin C.
Preventive effect against diabetes
A current research study reports that the blackthorn fruit is particularly rich in bioactive compounds, which, in addition to the flavonoids, vitamins and minerals mentioned, also include anthocyanins, phenolic acids and organic acids.
According to the experts, the ingredients have significant antioxidant and antibacterial properties and flavonoids found in blackthorn such as catechin, epicatechin and rutin are associated with a preventative effect against diabetes.
Lowers blood pressure
On the other hand, flavonoids that are also included, such as myricetin, quercetin and kaempferol, support the reduction of blood pressure, according to the research team
Blackthorn can also prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies, stimulate digestion and help against problems in the urethra, bladder and kidneys, edema, gout and rheumatic diseases.
Has an antioxidant and antibacterial effect
In addition, another current study from this year reported that blackthorn has various health-promoting properties, with the antioxidant and antibacterial effects also being highlighted here
Overall, blackthorn is a medicinal plant that can be used to effectively treat many health problems in a natural way. This can also reduce unnecessary medication use, saving costs for the healthcare system while reducing the risk of side effects. (as)
