Blackberry - Herb Uses |
Culinary (eaten)
The fruit of Blackberry (the berries) can be eaten fresh or juiced. Also used in jams, jellies, pies and other foods.
Used for treating Diarrhoea and as a Tonic
Infusion (like a tea)
Pour near-boiling water over the herb and let steep 5-10 minutes. Standard quantities are 30g dried leaves or powdered berries to 500ml water. The Infusion must be taken same day. It may be sweetened, but do not add milk. This is the best method for leaves.
Used for treating Diarrhoea and Sore Throats
Decoction (like a broth)
Simmer the herb for 15-30 minutes and strain. A Decoction is the best method for bark and roots. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water, reduce by one-third before using. The Decoction must be used on the same day.
Used for treating Diarrhoea
Tincture
A traditional Blackberry Tincture uses vinegar. Place clean fresh berries in a non-metallic container. Using a cider vinegar (unfiltered and unpasteurised is better), cover berries and steep for 3 days, stirring each day, strain and press vinegar from the berries. Measure the juice, add 450g honey for each 500ml of liquid. Simmer gently for 5 minutes. Remove the top scum, cool, bottle and use. Tinctures store very well.
Used for treating Fever (drink 1 tsp Tincture every hour until fever drops), Arthritis and Gout (use topically for pain, mix 1 tsp Tincture in glass of water and drink three times each day to dissolve deposits)
Blackberry - Plant Information |
