Black Currant

Black currant (Ribes nigrum), sometimes known as blackcurrant, is a woody shrub native to Europe and Asia. Although this currant plant is grown for its small black berries, it is also highly valued for the leaves, which are said to have great value as a medicinal herb. What are black currant leaves for? Read on and learn about the many black currant leaf uses. Uses for Black Currant Leaves Proponents of the plant claim that herbal black currant leaf may: Boost the immune system Reduce joint or muscle pain and inflammation Decrease the buildup of plaque in the heart Increase blood flow throughout the body Improve eye function, including night vision Benefits the kidneys, spleen, pancreas and liver Improves lung function Helps with sore throat and hoarseness Relieves diarrhea Eases coughs and colds Stimulates appetite and digestion Treats bladder stones and urinary tract infections Black currant leaves are rich in vitamin C. They also contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which may improve the immune system; and anthocyanins, chemicals known to have antioxidant properties.