Berries from the Clouds

Originating from the Artic and sub-Artic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of North America, Europe, and Asia, Cloudberries (Rubus chamaemorus) produce golden-yellow raspberry-like fruits.

This perennial rhizomatous plant has broad, crinkled leaves and typically grows in boggy, tundra-like environments.

In various countries, the Cloudberries are used like regular berries, and enjoyed fresh or made into yoghurt, alcholic drinks, jams, pies and other sweets. The fruits are tart due to their high vitamin C content, but when they are over-ripe they have a creamy texture and tart flavor similar to yogurt.

In traditional medicine, Cloudberries have been used for their anti-inflammatory properties, to for urinary tract infections, and for symptoms of colds and flu. They are also known for their high vitamin C content, which has been historically important in preventing scurvy among indigenous populations.

The fruits are known to be rich in a number of bioactive components, including ellagic acid, citric acid, malic acid, anthocyanins, alpha-tocopherol, carotenoids, lambertianin C and sanguiin H-6.

The Cloudberry seed oil is rich in fatty acids, phytoesterols and antioxidants, and has some interest for use in hair and skin products.

Through scientific investigation, Cloudberries have been found to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer properties.

Various parts of the Cloudberry plant are utilized for multiple purposes. The leaves have been used to create a refreshing tea, and the plant’s roots sometimes used for their dyeing properties. In some cultures, the leaves and roots also used in traditional textile production.

One study highlighted the benefits of Cloudberries in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This research demonstrated that the high levels of antioxidants in Cloudberries could help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

#MedicinalPlants #Ethnopharm #Ethnobotany #Herbalism #berries

*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.

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