Health Benefits
Promotes Oral Health
Anti-Aging
Diarrhea
Hemorrhoids
Wounds
Boosts Immune System
Promotes Oral Health
Blackberry leaf is approved in Germany for treating mild inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat, according to Flora Health. This makes it beneficial for relieving sore throat, mouth sores and gum inflammation. For these purposes, it can be used as a gargle, mouthwash or tea.
Anti-Aging
Blackberry leaves could play an important role in aging. According to a 2007 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, blackberry leaf extract suppresses certain matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) which cause wrinkles. In addition, the researchers noted that the leaf contained an antioxidant comparable to vitamin E.
Diarrhea
Blackberry leaves contain astringent tannins which help controls diarrhea. According to Micheal Castleman, author of The New Healing Herbs: The Essential Guide to More Than 125 of Nature’s Most Potentate Remedies, Commission E, the German counterpart for the FDA, endorses blackberry leaves for the treatment of diarrhea.
Hemorrhoids
The astringent property of blackberry leaves aids in reducing hemorrhoids. It is recommended to soak a cloth in a extract or decoction of blackberry leaves and apply it externally.
Wounds
Blackberry leaf poultices or compresses are used externally to aid in healing wounds and bruises.
Boosts Immune System
Thornless blackberry fruit and leaves have antioxidant properties, according to a study published in the February 2000 issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Antioxidants protect against the effects of free radicals, molecules produced during the metabolism of food into energy, or in response to environmental toxins such as cigarette smoke. Free radicals can damage cells and may be a factor in heart disease, cancer and other health problems. The study found that blackberry leaves had higher oxygen radical absorbance capacity than the fruit.
