Dioscorides recommended the leaves of the bramble plant for treating hemorrhoids many years ago. Its fruit, blackberries, has been used for ages as food, and it is an excellent natural sweet for both children and adults. Around one hundred varieties of brambles are known, all with the same properties.
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Bramble Plant Scientific Facts
- Scientific Names – Rubus fruticosus L.
- Other Names – European blackberry.
- French – Ronce noire.
- Spanish – Zarza, zarzamora.
- Environment—It is widely spread all over Europe, usually growing by roadsides, slopes, and field borders. It has been naturalized to America.
- Description—A thorny shrub of the Rosaceae family, it grows up to 4 m high and has white or pink flowers with 5 petals each. The fruit consists of several small dark purple or black drupes with a seed inside each.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The leaves, young buds, and the fruit (blackberries).
Healing Properties
The leaves and young buds of the bramble plant contain a high amount of tannin, which gives it astringent and hemostatic properties. The fruit contains, besides tannin, sugars (glucose and levulose), provitamin A, vitamin C, and organic acids (citric, lactic, succinic, oxalic, and salicylic). Their indications are as follows:
- Hemorrhoids – A decoction of both LEAVES and YOUNG BUDS of bramble is applied locally in sitz baths or compresses to reduce their inflammation and prevent them from bleeding.
- Diarrhea, gastroenteritis, and colitis because of their notable astringent properties. The YOUNG BUDS and LEAVES are more astringent than the FRUIT. However, all of them are usually consumed together to enhance their effects and take advantage of the flavor of the fruit. Children suffering from diarrhea can take blackberry juice in spoonfuls or the syrup made with this juice.
- Febrile diseases—The juice of the fruit (blackberries) is refreshing and invigorating, so it is recommended for weakened people or those suffering from febrile diseases.
- Oral and pharyngeal afflictions – Both a decoction of LEAVES and YOUNG BUDS, young green buds, and the FRUITS, have beneficial effects on mouth sores and for gingivitis (gum inflammation), stomatitis (inflammation of the oral mucosa), pharyngitis, and tonsilitis.
- Skin wounds, ulcers, and furuncles: Apply compresses or baths with the decoction or poultices with mashed leaves. These will help with healing.
Bramble Buds Against Tobacco
Smokers wanting to give up their unhealthy habits may try a new way to stop smoking. Put young buds of the bramble plant between your lips and suck them slowly. The slightly sweet and sour flavor of these buds creates a particular aversion towards tobacco and decreases the desire for a cigarette, at least while the bud is held in your mouth.
How to use Bramble
- Decoction with 30 to 50 grams of young buds and/or leaves per liter of water, boil for ten minutes and drink up to three cups daily.
- Young buds in spring. They can be directly eaten and provide healing when touching the oral mucosa.
- Blackberry juice – Drink it freshly made, from one to three glasses daily.
- Syrup—Prepared by adding two times its weight of sugar, preferably brown sugar, to the juice and heating until it is completely dissolved. Both blackberry juice and syrup are usually mixed with the decoction to improve the effects and enhance the latter’s flavor.
- Decoction slightly more concentrated (50 to 80 grams per liter) than the internally used one. Apply it through compresses, sitz baths, rinses, and gargles.
- Poultices made with mashed leaves. Apply them to the affected skin area.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the specific antioxidants and nutrients found in the bramble plant?
BERRIES: Brambles (blackberries, raspberries, etc.) are rich in anthocyanins (powerful antioxidants giving them their color), vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and fiber.
The LEAVES contain tannins, flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol, and fruit acids.
Can bramble leaves and berries be used together for increased benefits?
Yes! Bramble leaves and berries have complementary nutrients and actions. Berries provide vitamins and potent antioxidants, while leaves have astringent properties and anti-inflammatory flavonoids. Combining both can be beneficial for conditions like sore throats or digestive issues.
How do the tannins in bramble plants affect the body?
Tannins have an astringent effect, meaning they tighten and constrict tissues. This can be helpful in several ways:
– Diarrhea: Tannins help firm up stools.
– Sore throat/mouth ulcers: Tannins create a temporary protective layer, easing discomfort.
– Wound healing: The astringent action can help stop minor bleeding and promote tissue contraction.
Should any population use extra caution with bramble plants?
People with sensitive stomachs: The high tannin content in bramble root bark might be too harsh for some.
People on blood thinners: The vitamin K in brambles can interfere with blood thinner medications. Consult a doctor if you take blood thinners.
People with gout: Historical sources mention bramble use for gout, but modern research on this is limited. Please chat about this with your doctor before using it for this condition.
How can I make bramble-leaf tea?
Simple infusion: Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried bramble leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes, then strain.
Cold infusion: This makes a less bitter tea. Place leaves in cold water and let them infuse in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I eat fresh bramble leaves?
Yes, young bramble leaves can be eaten fresh. They have a slightly tart, astringent taste. Add them to salads or smoothies. Mature leaves can be too tough.
How might the bramble plant support women’s health?
Heavy menstrual bleeding: The astringent tannins may help reduce excessive flow.
Pregnancy: Bramble leaf tea is sometimes used in the later stages of pregnancy to tone uterine muscles. Always consult your doctor before using it during pregnancy.
Are there any proven benefits of bramble root?
Bramble root is less commonly used, but traditionally, it was employed for its more substantial astringent properties than the leaves. It was primarily used for digestive complaints like diarrhea.
Does the type of bramble (raspberry, blackberry, etc.) matter for specific benefits?
All bramble species offer similar benefits, though slight variations in nutrient composition exist. Choose the bramble variety you enjoy the most!
Where can I find reliable information and recipes for using bramble plants?
Look for resources from herbalists with reputable training.
Books by established authors in the field of herbal medicine.
University websites with extension programs on wild plants and herbs.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 541, 542. Print. [bramble plant]
- Healthline – https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-blackberries
- Green Talk – https://www.green-talk.com/blackberry-leaves/
- RxList – https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/blackberry.htm
- Whispering Earth – https://whisperingearth.co.uk/2010/09/23/bramble-medicine/
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API