Origin: It is believed that the Blackberries originated in Europe for over 2,000 years ago. It was domesticated for culinary and medicinal purposes. It’s no wonder that blackberry history dates so far back. It is believed that there are more than 375 species of blackberries throughout the temperate northern hemisphere and into South America.
Blackberry is also known as bramble, Brummel, and brambleberry. History reveals that the consumption of blackberry started as early as the Iron age. Almost 2500 years ago, the Romans used blackberries for medicinal uses. The native Americans not only used blackberries for culinary use but also for medicinal use. They also used blackberry to make dyes.
In the old English language, blackberries were called ‘Brymbyl’ and ‘brombeere’ in German. The ancient Anglo-Saxons used blackberries to make pies. They made blackberry pies for celebratory purposes.
The locals also believed that the blackberries protected them from curses through during the moon phase. They also believed that the bramble cured hernia in kids and walking on the brambles banished boils. Many doctors then, used to prescribe blackberry juice with lemon and honey to cure ailments. Blackberry became popular and spread to the United States in the early 17th century and became one of the most used ingredients in American culture.
Scientifically: Blackberry is a perennial plant and belongs to the genus Rubus and the family of Rosaceae. The botanical name is Rubus. It has derived its name from the Latin word ruber. It has biennial canes with the erect or semi-erect stem. It can also have the trailing stem. It usually has compound oval leaves with flowers in white, pink or red. This edible fruit is in black or deep purple in color.
Usage: Blackberries are extensively used in cooking and are used to make patisserie items like pies, muffins, crumbles. They are also used to make different savory items and jams etc. Apart from culinary uses, blackberries are also used for its medicinal properties. Blackberry is used for treating diarrhea, fluid retention, diabetes, gout, and pain and swelling (inflammation); and for preventing cancer and heart disease. It is also used as a mouth rinse for mild mouth and throat irritation.
Blackberries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as phytochemicals, bioflavonoids, and vitamin C which help in fighting against free radicals that cause skin damage. They also help in renewing and replenishing the skin cells. Blackberries also help in improving vision health. They also aid in weight loss and boost metabolism. Blackberries can be eaten cooked, raw, dried or canned.
Below are some DIYs with blackberries:
- Take some raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries and blend them together with little water. Apply this paste on damp hair and leave on for 10-15 minutes. Shampoo later. This remedy helps in cleansing of the scalp and makes them voluminous.
- Blend some blueberries with 2 tablespoons of yogurt. Apply this mask on the face for 10 minutes. This remedy helps in achieving a glow.
- Blend some blackberries with a tablespoon of honey. Apply it on the face for 10 minutes. Rinse it off in massaging motion. This remedy helps in deep moisturization of the skin.
- Boil a handful of blackberries in 2-3 cups of water. Let it boil until reduced to half. Let this water cool down. Use this water as a facial toner as well as a hair rinse. Keep it on for 5-10 minutes and then rinse. This remedy is great for cleansing of face and scalp.