Black Currant
fruit
The blackcurrant, black currant or cassis is a deciduous shrub in the family Grossulariaceae grown for its edible berries. It is native to temperate parts of central and northern Europe and northern Asia, where it prefers damp fertile soils. It is widely cultivated both commercially and domestically.
Conditions addressed
How to use
- Eat fresh, raw, or dried.
- Can be blended into smoothies, juiced, or added to salads and grain bowls.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Black Currant in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Black Currant itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.
Pregnancy
Use CautionThis herb has immune-modulating activity. Short-term, food-level use is generally lower risk, but concentrated/long-term use is generally reserved for when needed rather than routine — this is a general, mechanism-based caution, not herb-specific research.
Breastfeeding
Likely SafeImmune-supportive herbs are generally considered lower-risk during breastfeeding at normal amounts; caution is reasonable with autoimmune conditions or immunosuppressant medications.
Children
Use CautionShort-term, age-appropriate use for colds/immune support is common practice; long-term daily use is generally avoided without pediatric guidance.
Interactions & contraindications
May affect immune activity
Watch for: Immunosuppressants (for transplant or autoimmune conditions)
Immune-stimulating herbs can work against immunosuppressive therapy.