Black Currant: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Black currant (Ribes nigrum) is a shrub that grows to about 1-2 meters tall. It makes edible, purple-black berries that taste sweet and contain a seed.

Black currant seed oil contains a chemical called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA might improve immune function and help decrease swelling. Black currant berries contain chemicals called anthocyanins, which have antioxidant effects. There is interest in these chemicals to prevent skin aging and wrinkles.

People use black currant for eczema, gout, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, muscle fatigue, wound healing, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse black currant with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), omega-6 fatty acids, borage, evening primrose, or flaxseed oil. These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for Black Currant overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth Black currant berries, leaves, and flowers are commonly consumed as foods. Black currant juice, extract, and seed oil are likely safe when used appropriately as medicine.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if any part of black currant is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if black currant is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Bleeding disorders: Black currant seed oil might slow blood clotting. This might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.

Surgery: Black currant seed oil might slow blood clotting. This might increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. Stop taking black currant seed oil at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with Black Currant
Black currant seed oil might slow blood clotting. Taking black currant seed oil along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Phenothiazines interacts with Black Currant
Taking black currant seed oil with phenothiazines might increase the chance of having a seizure in some people.

Dosing

Black currant berries, leaves, and flowers are commonly consumed as foods.

As medicine, black currant seed oil has most often been used by adults in doses of 3-10.5 grams by mouth daily for up to 24 weeks. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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