Wild berries are not only delicious, but they also carry a wealth of healing properties. They’re great for adding to baked goods and sweets, smoothies, teas, salads and more.
It’s important to respect nature and harvest berries in moderation, leaving enough behind for wildlife and future growth. Be sure to practice proper harvesting techniques.
Antioxidants
Wild berries are high in antioxidants, which can protect cells from damage and inflammation. They can also boost your immune system and promote a healthy digestive tract.
Studies have shown that consuming high amounts of antioxidants may improve cognitive function and help protect against age-related cognitive decline. Antioxidants in berries may also support a healthy urinary tract, reduce the risk of heart disease, and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Removing invasive species, and encouraging responsible foraging practices that encourage only picking ripe berries and leaving enough for wildlife are important to ensure the sustainability of wild berry populations and ecosystems. They can also help mitigate the impact of commercial exploitation on the environment.
Vitamins
The vitamins in wild berries can boost immunity, reduce oxidative stress and improve brain function. They also help prevent eye diseases and strengthen bones.
The antioxidants in wild berries may even aid in fertility, according to researchers at the University of Texas. Elderberry extract contains a compound that helps prevent cervical cancer, while mulberries contain plant compounds that lower cholesterol levels and protect against heart disease and diabetes.
Fresh wild berries are packed with elevated biotics that supersede any probiotic supplement available in the market. These microorganisms bypass the hydrochloric acid in your stomach and bile salts in your duodenum and small intestine, finding their way to your ileum, where they rejuvenate and cleanse your digestive tract. They also provide vital nutrients and trace minerals.
Minerals
Wild berries are rich in many minerals, including potassium and manganese. They also contain soluble fiber and are low in calories, making them a good choice for people watching their weight or managing diabetes.
Minerals in berries may help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health by improving the function of cells that line your blood vessels. They may also help lower cholesterol, which can reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke.
Practicing responsible foraging and promoting sustainable harvesting techniques can help maintain healthy wild berry populations. This can include educating foragers on how to identify native and non-native species, leaving enough berries behind to sustain wildlife, and avoiding introducing invasive plants to new areas. In addition, establishing protected areas can help protect wild berry habitats from development and exploitation.
Fiber
The fiber in wild berries helps clean out the gut, aiding digestion and providing a good source of dietary fiber. It can also be helpful in reducing symptoms of IBS and other digestive conditions.
Raspberries are high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, and ellagic acid, which is cancer-preventing. These nutrients make them an excellent addition to your skin care routine, boosting hydration and helping reduce inflammation.
Like all fruits and vegetables, it is best to choose organic or grow your own if possible. This way you can be sure that the berries are not covered in pesticides. Also, choose berries that are fresh and unprocessed, as heat and other methods of processing can cause the loss of some anthocyanins. The berries may also be covered with elevated biotics, microorganisms that outperform any probiotic you can buy in the store.
Flavor
The juicy, fresh berry flavor of this powder concentrate adds a delightful taste to beverages, desserts, smoothies, and tea. It also enhances a variety of foods such as jams, sauces, custards, and yogurts.
The many natural phyto-compounds found in wild blueberries can help protect the body from disease and stimulate metabolism. These include polyphenols, quercetin, kaempferol and anthocyanins.
In addition, consuming wild berries can prevent your body from producing the free radicals that cause cell damage. The antioxidants in these berries can also help reduce blood sugar levels and keep your heart healthy. Lastly, these berries are rich in vitamin C and manganese. This helps to strengthen the immune system, promotes strong bones and skin and protects against cognitive decline. They contain a very low amount of sugar and are high in fibre.