Currant

Cultivation of both red and black currants began in Europe in the Middle Ages. The black currant is a species that is actually closer to the gooseberry than the red currant-the currant and the gooseberry are closely related. Red currants are native to northeastern Europe.

Neither the currant nor the gooseberry will grow in the deep South or the warm areas of the western United States. Currants grow best where the weather is cold.

Black currants were used in times past for the treatment of scurvy. They are a fine source of vitamin C; red currants. however, do not contain as much of that important vitamin.

Benefits of Currant

When dried, currants are valuable in combating anemia, since they contain iron, copper, and manganese. They have an alkaline reaction and work as a laxative in the body. Currants are important for the elimination of certain impurities.

The black currant is not as flavorful as the red currant, but is thought to be therapeutic for cases of arthritis and gout. The red currant has been recommended in cases of dysentery.

Nutrients in one pound