Botanical Name: Rubus fruticosus
Family Name: Rosaceae
Blackberries are native to Asia, Europe, North and South America and are part of the rose family which have the characteristic flowers, leaves, and thorns similar to those found on wild rose bushes. These shrubs, also known as bramble, tend to take over wherever they can with arching, thorny branches that can become quite invasive if left to their own devices. All through the summer, you can see the berries, growing on bushy vines in small clusters known as drupelets, in various stages of ripeness. In most common species, the flowers are white and the berries proceed from white, to red to purply-black ripeness.
All parts of the blackberry bush have been used through the centuries for healing Native Americans used a concoction of the roots and leaves to help with stomach and digestion problems. Blackberry leaves are high in tannins and can be used to calm diarrhea as a gentle astringent tea. The leaves have a pleasant, fruity flavor and are a natural source of salicylate, which is an anti-inflammatory found in aspirin. Chewing fresh blackberry leaves can help canker sores and inflamed gums. The action of chewing the herb releases the astringent tannins, which heal and soothe, and Vitamin C, which is essential for gum health.
Blackberry leaf can also be applied in topical skin care applications such as toners, washes and lotions. Combine 1/2 cup dried blackberry leaves, with 3 cups water, simmer for about 10-15 mins, strain and add honey and drink hot as a warming, vitamin and antioxidant filled tea, or cold as a gargle for sore throats or as an astringent mouthwash. Use Blackberry leaves in Spells for wealth and healing or add to incense blends or infusions for protection!
All of our loose leaf herbs are Certified Organic. Please come stop by the shop and enjoy our Apothecary in person if you live in, or are visiting Colorado!