Black Currant Fruit Extract
Black Currant Fruit Extract
Snapshot
Black currant fruit extract is rich in anthocyanins and vitamin C, supporting immune health, eye function, and joint recovery with powerful antioxidant properties.
What is Black Currant Fruit Extract?
Black currant fruit extract is derived from the berries of the Ribes nigrum plant. Known for their deep purple hue and tart flavor, these berries are highly concentrated in antioxidants and are used to support a range of health functions, from reducing inflammation to enhancing vision and circulation.
Where It Comes From
Black currants are native to parts of northern and central Europe and Asia. The extract is made by drying the ripe berries and concentrating their active components—primarily anthocyanins—into a potent supplement form.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Black currant fruit extract contains anthocyanins (particularly delphinidin-3-rutinoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside), vitamin C, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), flavonoids, and polyphenols. These compounds provide a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect that helps protect cells and tissues from oxidative damage.
Health Benefits
Black currant extract supports immune function through its high vitamin C content and helps reduce inflammation, which may benefit joint health and recovery. It is known to improve eye health by increasing ocular blood flow and reducing eye fatigue, especially during prolonged screen time. The extract also supports cardiovascular health, circulation, and athletic performance through improved blood flow and reduced oxidative stress.
Recommended Dosage
Typical doses range from 300 mg to 600 mg of black currant extract daily, often standardized to contain 25–35% anthocyanins. For vision or joint health, higher doses may be recommended under professional guidance.
How to Use It
Black currant extract is available in capsule, powder, or liquid form. It can be taken with meals and is often combined with other eye-support or immune-boosting ingredients.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for individuals seeking natural support for vision, immunity, joint function, or recovery from physical stress. It's especially useful for athletes, screen-heavy users, and those with inflammatory or oxidative stress concerns.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Black currant may have mild anticoagulant effects, so individuals on blood-thinning medications should consult a healthcare provider. No major side effects are associated with standard use.
Final Thoughts
Black currant fruit extract is a nutrient-dense, antioxidant-rich supplement with broad health applications, from immune and vision support to reducing joint pain and enhancing circulation. Its versatility and potency make it a top-tier ingredient in wellness supplementation.
Scientific Studies
Matsumoto, H., et al. (2005). Visual improvement by anthocyanin-rich black currant extract in subjects with visual fatigue. Alternative Medicine Review, 10(2), 175–183. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15989384/
Borges, G., et al. (2010). Bioavailability of anthocyanins and ellagitannins following consumption of blackcurrant juice in humans. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 54(5), 569–577. https://doi.org/10.1002/mnfr.200900233
Nakaishi, H., et al. (2000). Effects of blackcurrant anthocyanin intake on dark adaptation and VDT work-induced transient refractive alteration. Japanese Journal of Clinical Ophthalmology, 54(4), 601–606.
Nakaishi, H., et al. (2002). Protective effects of blackcurrant anthocyanins on VDT-induced visual fatigue. Journal of Clinical Therapeutics & Medicines, 18(5), 587–592.