Aronia berries are very similar in appearance to bilberries but offer different benefits. Let’s see what are the properties and contraindications of Aronia berries and how they are used.
Aronia berries are small fruits with a similar appearance to bilberries that grow on shrubs belonging to the Rosaceae family. Native to North America, aronia berries were traditionally used by Native Americans as a cold remedy. In our country they are mainly found in the form of juice or dehydrated berries, while it is more difficult to find them fresh.
What particularly struck the researchers is the intense purple color of the Black Aronia, known by specialists as Aronia Melanocarpa. This dark pigmentation is due to the amount of anthocyanins, about 1480 mg per 100 grams of berries.
It is precisely the anthocyanins, of which Aronia berries are particularly rich, that confer most of the beneficial effects of these small dark berries. So let’s see what aronia berries are good for.
Properties of aronia berries
As we have said, many of the benefits we can obtain from the consumption of Aronia berries derive precisely from the presence of anthocyanins, which give excellent antioxidant properties, useful for fighting and preventing cellular aging and damage caused by excess free radicals, known as oxidative stress.
This strong antioxidant property is also associated with the anti-inflammatory property of this berry, which acts by reducing the expression of some pro-inflammatory factors, helping, on the whole, to reduce inflammation-related disorders, such as cardiovascular problems and arthritis. Remaining on the merits of cardiovascular health, a study has shown that supplementation with 300 mg of aronia extract per day for 2 months has shown beneficial effects in reducing LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides in patients with metabolic syndrome.
Thanks to the presence of vitamin K, moreover, the aronia berries strengthen the bones, while the numerous mineral salts are integrated into the body as fundamental substances for its proper functioning.
Like any other fruit, Aronia berries are also a source of fiber that should not be underestimated. Here they help cleanse the colon, fight hemorrhoids and constipation. According to some studies carried out in the laboratory, the extracts of these berries could also help prevent some forms of cancer, including that of the colon or breast.
Thanks to the high presence of anthocyanins then, the aronia berries strengthen blood vessels, prevent blood clotting and decrease the risk of cardiovascular problems. In this regard, it seems that drinking chokeberry juice constantly helps reduce excess cholesterol.
Drinking pure aronia berry juice also helps cleanse the urinary tract, helping to reduce the risk of getting infections. This is thanks to the high content of quinic acid.
Aronia berries: how many to eat and how to use them
These berries, coming from the Aronia shrub native to North America and the Siberian Landes, can be used in many ways in cooking. We can consume them fresh, as simple fruits, or we can use them for the creation of many recipes. In this way it will be possible to obtain all the properties of Aronia berries, without giving up on delicious dishes. We must in fact consider that this berry has a very sour taste, which may not be appreciated by everyone. That is why they are processed in such a way that the properties are maintained, but the flavor is sweetened.
Since in our country it is easier to find them dried, remember that a standard portion of dehydrated fruit is about 30-40 grams, to be consumed even every day, possibly alternating with other dehydrated fruits. This quantity must be taken into consideration especially by those on a diet since dehydrated fruit is quite caloric.
As for aronia juice, it is generally recommended to take 100-125ml per day , a quantity sufficient to offer the benefits of this berry. It can be drunk neat or diluted in water and can be taken at any time of the day. Let’s see below the most common uses of Aronia berries.
1. Jams
A preparation that takes time, but that will undoubtedly not be nullified. Aronia berry jam is delicious, natural and very healthy. The perfect solution for those who have children and want to offer them healthy and nutritious ideas.
2. Fruit juices
Aronia juice is obtained by cold pressing the berries of this fruit, with the addition of whole cane sugar or other natural sweeteners. American Indians used it to increase vitality. As we have seen above, 100-125 ml of pure juice per day is recommended.
3. Herbal teas
To create herbal teas and infusions based on Aronia berries, it is necessary to use the dried ones, which can be purchased at a herbalist’s shop. They should be put in boiling water for 3 or 4 minutes, then left to cool and drink the infusion. You can also eat the berries used for the infusion.
4. Shakes
When made at home, they turn out to be a mine of nutrients. Just add a few berries (even in a dehydrated version) to enrich them and enjoy all their beneficial properties.
5. Fruit salad
A tablespoon of aronia berries can be added to a rich fruit salad. It is undoubtedly one of the simplest and tastiest ways to consume them.
Contraindications of aronia berries
There are no particular contraindications for Aronia berries. It is a healthy and beneficial fruit that, to date, has only shown its many benefits. As always, it is recommended not to use it recklessly and to pay attention to its origin. Better to prefer organic fruits, without pesticides and other toxic substances, so as to minimize the side effects of the berries. It is advisable to consult your doctor before use if you are taking anticoagulant drugs.
Although Aronia berries have no side effects, we must be careful of personal intolerances and possible allergic reactions. In this case, consult your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your health.
