Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, including for supporting respiratory health and treating colds. Traditionally, various parts of the blackberry plant—primarily the leaves and fruit—have been used as remedies for sore throats, coughs, and mild infections. The astringent properties of blackberry leaves, attributed to their tannin content, were believed to soothe sore throats and reduce inflammation. Folk medicine in Europe and North America often included blackberry teas or syrups as supportive treatments during colds, aiming to relieve symptoms rather than to cure the illness directly.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the use of blackberry for cold prevention or treatment is very limited. While blackberries are rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants—compounds that may theoretically support immune function—there are no well-designed clinical trials demonstrating that blackberry consumption prevents colds or shortens their duration. Any benefit is likely to be indirect, through general nutritional support rather than a specific antiviral or immune-boosting action. As a result, the current use of blackberry for colds is primarily based on tradition rather than robust scientific validation.

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Nature's Sunshine Solstic Immune