Cloudberry
Other Names : Rubus chamaemorus, bakeapple, knotberry, knoutberry, aqpik, low-bush salmonberry, averin, evron, Moltebeere
Cloudberries are delicious fruits that come from a rhizomatous herb scientifically known as Rubus chamaemorus. Many people are unfamiliar with cloudberries because they primarily grow in arctic or alpine environments, as well as in boreal forests in the northern hemisphere. There is not a major cultivation of these berries either, so they are not widely exported to the rest of the world. They are commonly grown in Russia, Northern Europe, Scandinavia, some parts of the British Isles, Newfoundland, Canada, and Alaska.
Special Precautions of Cloudberry
Given that the use and spread of cloudberries is relatively small, a large amount of research has not been conducted on it, nor has there been a significant amount of allergen reporting. It is not commonly known as an allergen, but there is also a unique combination of nutrients and acids in cloudberry. In other words, enjoy cloudberries in moderation and monitor your body to see how it responds.
Health Benefits and uses of Cloudberry are
They are highly prized as culinary components, due to their juicy and tar quality, but also for their wealth of vitamins, minerals, and organic compounds (particularly ellagic acid) that can significantly benefit human health. These berries are often used in candies, jams, alcoholic drinks, and various other baked goods. They can also be eaten raw, but the flavor is quite tart, so most prepare some sort of sweetened recipe. Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the health benefits of cloudberry.
- Immune System: The high content of vitamin C and vitamin A make cloudberries very beneficial to the immune system, as vitamin C stimulates the production of white blood cells and acts as an antioxidant, which neutralizes free radicals throughout the body. Vitamin A, similarly, has carotenoids that act as antioxidants, protecting the skin and eyes from breaking down and aging.
- Circulation: Cloudberries are packed with iron, as well as many other beneficial minerals, but the iron content is specifically important for circulation, as it is a key component in red blood cell production. With enough iron in your diet, you reduce your chances of developing anemia.
- Heart Health: Cloudberries have a unique component that most fruits lack – omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The “good” form of cholesterol in cloudberries can actually help to balance your cholesterol levels and reduce the strain on your cardiovascular system.
- Detoxify the Body: These unique arctic fruits have long been used as a diuretic to stimulate urination; this helps to keep the body free of dangerous toxins and eliminate excess water, salts, and even fat. This relieves pressure on the liver and kidneys as well when your body is regularly flushing itself clean.
- Antioxidant Activity: Aside from the vitamin C in cloudberries, there are also certain phytosterols and carotenoids, not to mention the powerful effects of ellagic acid, which have been linked to reducing the occurrence of cancer, slowing the aging process, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, and lowering the chances of contracting chronic diseases. Cloudberries also have specific chemicals that are antibacterial and antiviral in nature, making it a very comprehensive health fruit!
- Digestion: The dietary fiber content found in cloudberries makes it ideal for optimizing the digestive system. Fiber helps to stimulate peristaltic motion, which reduces constipation, bloating, cramping, and more serious conditions, such as gastric ulcers or cancer. Also, dietary fiber helps to regulate insulin receptors in the body, ensuring the regular release of sugar into the bloodstream, which will prevent or manage Type 2 diabetes. The phenolics in cloudberries also prevent gastrointestinal pathogens from developing.
- Bone Health: Magnesium is a key component of bone health, as it increases the uptake potential of calcium by the body. This can help to prevent osteoporosis and extend the duration of your “active life”.
