# Ribes nigrum (Blackcurrant)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/ribes-nigrum
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-30
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Black currant, Cassis, European blackcurrant, Garden blackcurrant, Ben, Quinsy berry, Squinancy berry, Ribes nigrum L.

## Overview

Blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) is exceptionally rich in anthocyanins, particularly delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside and cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside, which drive its antioxidant and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity. These polyphenols neutralize [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s, modulate NF-κB signaling, and inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2 and lipoxygenase.

## Health Benefits

• Potent [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) demonstrated in laboratory studies, with press residue extracts showing 7-10 times higher ABTS radical scavenging capacity than pomace extracts (in vitro evidence only)
• Rich source of anthocyanins (delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside up to 55.2% of total) with potential antioxidant properties (no human studies available)
• Contains gamma-tocopherol (65-75% of total tocopherols) and carotenoids including lutein (17.5 mg/100g oil) (compositional data only)
• Phenolic acids present including gallic and protocatechuic acids may contribute to antioxidant capacity (in vitro evidence only)
• Note: All benefits are based on laboratory analysis and in vitro studies; no human clinical trials were found in the research

## Mechanism of Action

Blackcurrant anthocyanins, dominated by delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside (up to 55.2% of total anthocyanin content), donate electrons to neutralize [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) via ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging pathways. These compounds inhibit NF-κB nuclear translocation, suppressing downstream transcription of COX-2, TNF-α, and IL-6, thereby reducing [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and leukotriene synthesis. Additionally, blackcurrant polyphenols inhibit monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) and activate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), contributing to vasodilation and potential [neuroprotective effect](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)s.

## Clinical Summary

Human clinical trials on blackcurrant extract are modest in scale, typically involving 20–50 participants, but have reported measurable outcomes including reduced exercise-induced [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) markers (plasma TBARS) and improved microcirculation in healthy adults supplementing 300–600 mg standardized extract daily. A randomized crossover study found blackcurrant anthocyanins improved ocular blood flow and reduced visual fatigue after 4 weeks of supplementation. In vitro evidence is considerably stronger, with press residue extracts demonstrating 7–10 times higher ABTS radical scavenging capacity than pomace extracts, though this does not directly translate to equivalent in vivo potency. Overall, evidence is promising but limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and lack of large-scale RCTs.

## Nutritional Profile

Per 100g fresh blackcurrant fruit: Energy ~63 kcal; Water ~82g; Carbohydrates ~15.4g (sugars ~6-8g, predominantly fructose and glucose); Dietary fiber ~4.3g (containing both soluble pectin and insoluble fractions); Protein ~1.4g; Fat ~0.4g. VITAMINS: Exceptionally high vitamin C content at 150-200 mg/100g (roughly 3-4x that of oranges; bioavailability is high but degrades rapidly with heat processing, with up to 50% loss during boiling/jam-making); Vitamin E as gamma-tocopherol (65-75% of total tocopherols, ~1.0-2.7 mg/100g total tocopherols; gamma-tocopherol has lower vitamin E bioactivity than alpha-tocopherol but distinct [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties); Vitamin K ~10 µg/100g; Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) ~0.4 mg/100g; minor amounts of B1, B2, B6, and folate (~8 µg/100g). MINERALS: Potassium ~322 mg/100g; Iron ~1.5 mg/100g (non-heme, bioavailability enhanced by co-present vitamin C); Manganese ~0.26 mg/100g; Calcium ~55 mg/100g; Magnesium ~24 mg/100g; Phosphorus ~59 mg/100g; Zinc ~0.27 mg/100g; Copper ~0.09 mg/100g. BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS - ANTHOCYANINS: Total anthocyanins 130-400 mg/100g fresh weight (among the highest of commonly consumed fruits); dominant anthocyanin is delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside (up to 55.2% of total anthocyanins), followed by cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside (~30-35%), delphinidin-3-O-glucoside (~8-12%), and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (~5-8%); anthocyanin bioavailability is generally low (estimated <1-2% intact absorption), though colonic metabolites (protocatechuic acid, phloroglucinol aldehyde) may exert systemic effects. PROANTHOCYANIDINS: ~90-180 mg/100g, primarily prodelphinidins (gallocatechin-based polymers), which are poorly absorbed intact but undergo colonic [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) to bioactive phenolic acids. OTHER PHENOLICS: Hydroxycinnamic acids (caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid derivatives) ~10-30 mg/100g; flavonols including myricetin and quercetin glycosides ~5-15 mg/100g; ellagic acid traces. FATTY ACIDS (in seeds, relevant to seed oil): Seeds contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 12-14% of seed oil fatty acids) and stearidonic acid (SDA, 2-4%); these omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are not significantly present in the fruit flesh. ORGANIC ACIDS: Citric acid ~2.5-3.5g/100g (dominant); malic acid ~0.1-0.3g/100g, contributing to characteristically low pH (~2.9-3.1) which aids vitamin C stability but may affect mineral chelation. PECTIN: ~1.0-1.5g/100g, contributing to soluble fiber content and potentially modulating glycemic response. Bioavailability notes: The high vitamin C content significantly enhances non-heme iron absorption from the fruit and co-consumed foods; the acidic pH of the fruit matrix may help preserve anthocyanin stability in the stomach; processing (juicing, heating, freezing) significantly affects anthocyanin content, with freeze-drying retaining the most and thermal processing (jam, pasteurized juice) causing 20-50% degradation.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available as no human trials were found in the research. Analytical studies standardize to anthocyanin content or total phenols, but therapeutic dosing has not been established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Blackcurrant is generally well tolerated at typical supplemental doses of 300–900 mg/day, with no serious adverse events reported in short-term clinical studies; mild gastrointestinal discomfort is occasionally noted at higher doses. Due to its antiplatelet and vasodilatory properties via eNOS activation, blackcurrant may potentiate the effects of anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications such as warfarin, aspirin, and clopidogrel, warranting caution. Blackcurrant seed oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and may interact with hormone-sensitive conditions or medications affecting platelet aggregation. Safety data in pregnant or lactating women is insufficient, so use should be conservative and ideally guided by a healthcare provider.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier contains no human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses for Ribes nigrum. All available studies focus exclusively on extraction chemistry, compositional analysis, and in vitro [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) assessments rather than clinical outcomes in humans.

## Historical & Cultural Context

No historical or traditional medicinal uses are described in the available research. The studies focus solely on modern extraction methods and chemical composition.

## Synergistic Combinations

Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Bilberry, Elderberry, Quercetin

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much blackcurrant extract should I take per day?

Most clinical studies have used standardized blackcurrant anthocyanin extracts at doses of 300–600 mg per day, typically providing 50–200 mg of total anthocyanins. Higher doses up to 900 mg/day have been used in some protocols without reported serious side effects, but optimal dosing has not been established in large-scale trials. Always check that the supplement is standardized for anthocyanin content rather than relying solely on raw fruit weight equivalents.

### What are the main anthocyanins in blackcurrant?

Blackcurrant contains four primary anthocyanins: delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, and cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside, with delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside typically comprising the largest fraction at up to 55.2% of total anthocyanin content. The delphinidin derivatives have three hydroxyl groups on the B-ring, conferring stronger radical scavenging capacity compared to cyanidin derivatives. This anthocyanin profile distinguishes blackcurrant from many other berries and contributes to its notably high ORAC and ABTS values.

### Can blackcurrant supplements improve eye health?

Preliminary clinical evidence suggests blackcurrant anthocyanins at 50 mg/day can improve ocular blood flow in the optic nerve head and reduce symptoms of visual fatigue, likely through eNOS-mediated vasodilation in retinal capillaries. A placebo-controlled study in adults with eye strain found statistically significant improvements in accommodation amplitude after 4 weeks. However, evidence remains limited to small trials, and blackcurrant supplements should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment of diagnosed eye conditions.

### Does blackcurrant interact with blood thinners like warfarin?

Blackcurrant polyphenols inhibit platelet aggregation and activate eNOS-driven vasodilation, which may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel, and similar medications. While no large clinical interaction studies exist, the antiplatelet mechanism is pharmacologically plausible and has been documented in in vitro platelet aggregation assays. Individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy should consult a physician before supplementing with concentrated blackcurrant extract or seed oil.

### Is blackcurrant the same as black elderberry for immune support?

No — blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) and black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) are entirely different plants with distinct phytochemical profiles, though both contain anthocyanins. Elderberry is primarily studied for reducing duration and severity of influenza via inhibition of viral neuraminidase, while blackcurrant research focuses more on antioxidant capacity, ocular blood flow, and exercise recovery. Blackcurrant's delphinidin-dominant anthocyanin profile differs from elderberry's cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside-dominant profile, resulting in different biological activity spectrums.

### What is the difference between blackcurrant seed oil and blackcurrant extract supplements?

Blackcurrant seed oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and gamma-tocopherol, making it beneficial for inflammation and antioxidant support, while blackcurrant extract concentrates anthocyanins and polyphenols for stronger antioxidant activity. Extract forms typically deliver higher concentrations of delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside and other anthocyanins, whereas seed oil provides different bioactive compounds including essential fatty acids. The choice depends on your primary health goal—anti-inflammatory benefits favor seed oil, while antioxidant and eye health support may favor anthocyanin-rich extracts.

### Is blackcurrant safe for children and during pregnancy?

While blackcurrant fruit is generally safe as a food source, clinical safety data for concentrated supplements in children and pregnant women is limited. Pregnant women should consult healthcare providers before using blackcurrant supplements, particularly seed oil forms which may have anticoagulant properties. For children, food-based blackcurrant sources are preferable to supplements unless specifically recommended by a pediatrician.

### Why is blackcurrant press residue extract more potent than other blackcurrant supplement forms?

Blackcurrant press residue is a byproduct of juice production that concentrates anthocyanins and polyphenols in the skin and seed material, demonstrating 7-10 times higher antioxidant capacity (ABTS radical scavenging) than pomace extracts in laboratory studies. This concentrated form retains the highest anthocyanin content, particularly delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside, which is responsible for much of blackcurrant's antioxidant potential. However, these in vitro findings have not been validated in human clinical trials, so real-world efficacy differences between forms remain unclear.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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