Blackcurrant

Supplements made from the blackcurrant plant may contain the following components of the plant: Seed oil, the leaves, the fruit or the flowers. The plant and its components contain, among other things, the pigment anthocyanidin and gamma-linolenic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid. Some scientists believe that these ingredients can help to support the immune system and reduce inflammation.

What are the benefits of supplements made from plant ingredients?

Although more studies are needed, some studies suggest that black currant supplements may lower total cholesterol and triglyceride levels while increasing levels of good HDL cholesterol. These supplements may also help to reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis such as joint pain, joint stiffness and tenderness. This could reduce the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and improve joint function. Furthermore, such supplements could help with poor circulation, e.g. as a result of peripheral arterial disease. Of interest to athletes, there is evidence that blackcurrant supplements may reduce muscle fatigue after repeated exertion. Some women use blackcurrant supplements to treat symptoms of menopause and premenstrual syndrome, as well as painful periods and breast tenderness. In addition, blackcurrant supplements are used to promote the function of the immune system and for a wide range of problems such as Alzheimer's disease, peripheral arterial disease, arthritis, gout, coughs, colds and diarrhea. Blackcurrant extracts are also applied directly to the skin to treat wounds or insect bites. There are currently no scientific studies that prove that blackcurrant supplements can actually help with any of the health problems mentioned.

Recommended intake

Optimal dosages of blackcurrant supplements have not yet been determined. The quality and active ingredients of such supplements can vary greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer, making it difficult to give a general dosage recommendation.

Risks and side effects

The juice, leaves and flowers of blackcurrant are safe and harmless when consumed as an ingredient in food. The oil from the seeds is also considered safe to use in appropriate doses as a medicine. However, more information is needed to determine whether the dried leaves of the plant can be considered safe and harmless.

Side effects

The gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) contained in blackcurrant seeds can in some cases cause side effects such as headaches, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence and belching. However, most people have few problems with GLA. Allergic reactions are rare.

Risks

Blackcurrant supplements can slow down blood clotting, which is why you should not take these supplements if you suffer from a blood clotting disorder. Furthermore, you should stop taking such supplements two weeks before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding and avoid interactions with anesthetics.

People who are prone to seizures should avoid blackcurrant supplements. As a precaution, pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid such supplements.

Interactions

Care should be taken when combining blackcurrant supplements with plant extracts and supplements that can slow down blood clotting. These include angelica, clove, ginger and panax ginseng. The same applies to medications such as aspirin, heparin, ibuprofen, naproxen and warfarin, which also slow down blood clotting. Blackcurrant supplements should not be combined with antipsychotic drugs known as phenothiazines, as such combinations can increase the risk of seizures in some people.