Botanical Name: Ribes nigrum
- English: European black current, Blackcurrent leaves
- Also, known as: Hei sui cu li, Grosella, Negra, Kuro fusa suguri, Casis, Ribes nero, Schwarze johannisbeere, Cassis, johannesbessie, Nabar
Habitat: Northers Europe and Himalayas to Northern Asia
Parts Used: Leaves
The shrub of Black current needs at least 8-10 weeks of subzero temperature, damp, fertile soil and, regular watering is a requirement, so the cultivation is limited to very cold regions.
Ribes nigrum is a medium size shrub growing to five ft. by five ft. The leaves are alternate, simple, 2-5 cm broad and long with five palmate lobs and a serrated margin. All parts of the plant are strongly aromatic. The flowers are produced in racemes known as “strings” up to 8 cm long containing 10-20 flowers each about 8 mm in diameter. The flowers open in succession from the base of the strings and are mostly insect pollinated. Black current is the plant which is useful to make oil, Leaves, fruits, and flower are used to make medicine.
How to use:
The basic method for dried herbs and flower is, take 2-3 tablespoons of dried herb in a cup or teapot. Pour hot water over it and cover it with lid for 10-30 minutes. Hot water is needed to draw out the antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, flavonoids and volatile oils from the botanicals. Strain and squeeze out as much as liquid as possible and enjoy!
- You can sweeten your herbal tea with bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder and or licorice root powder.
- You can make ice cubes or pops by freezing tea in ice tray or pop molds.
You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
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This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.