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Aronia, also known as black chokeberry, is a fruit with an astonishing number of health benefits. This shrub originates from the eastern coast of the USA and Canada, but today it is cultivated in many countries, including the Czech Republic, where it has adapted very well to our climate. Its fruits, small black berries, contain a range of valuable nutrients that have a positive effect on our health. Aronia is considered a superfood that not only supports the immune system but also contributes to the prevention of many serious illnesses.
Aronia: A natural helper against autumn infections
Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) is a shrub from the Rosaceae family that grows up to 2.5 meters tall. Its fruits, dark, almost black berries, are rich in vitamins and minerals. Aronia contains vitamins C, A, E, P, B, PP, but also minerals such as iron, potassium, copper and manganese. This shrub is also a source of rare but valuable elements like molybdenum, boron and cobalt. These fruits are exceptionally rich in anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants that protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Anthocyanins are also found in other dark fruits, such as blueberries or black grapes, but aronia has a high content of them, which makes it a strong guardian of health.
Health benefits of aronia
- Support for the circulatory system: Aronia helps lower blood pressure and protects against heart diseases. It improves blood circulation and contributes to the overall health of the cardiovascular system.
- Antiviral and anticancer effects: Aronia has strong anticancer properties. It helps prevent the formation of cancer cells and supports the treatment of certain types of cancer.
- Support for diabetic health: This shrub helps slow the absorption of glucose, which is important for diabetics. Aronia can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Regulation of metabolism and lowering cholesterol: Aronia helps reduce the level of bad cholesterol in the blood, improves metabolism and supports digestive system health.
- Immune strengthening: Thanks to its high vitamin C content and other antioxidants, aronia strengthens the immune system, which is key to protecting the body from infections, especially in the winter months.
- Protection of the nervous system: Aronia protects the nervous system and may help prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease.
However, caution is advised, because aronia is not suitable for people with low blood pressure or for people with certain digestive problems, for example those with stomach ulcers or inflammations.
Aronia in the kitchen: How to make aronia tincture
One of the best ways to use aronia is to prepare a tincture, which preserves all its beneficial substances and offers a natural way to boost immunity and improve health.
Ingredients for aronia tincture:
- 1.5 kg of aronia berries
- 1 liter of vodka (40%)
- 0.25 l of spirit (96%)
- 0.5 kg of sugar
To enrich the flavor you can add:
- a piece of cinnamon bark
- a vanilla pod
- a piece of fresh ginger root
Procedure for preparing the tincture:
- Thoroughly wash and dry the aronia fruits. Then remove the stems and place them in a wide container.
- Sprinkle the berries with sugar and gently crush them to start releasing juice.
- Pour in the mixture of alcohol and vodka and mix thoroughly.
- Cover the container and store it in a warm, dark place, where you let it macerate for 3 to 4 weeks.
- After this time, strain the tincture and filter it through cheesecloth. Pour it into clean bottles.
- Store the bottles in a dark and cool place for at least 6 months. After this time the tincture is ready to use.
Aronia tincture is a natural remedy that will help support your immunity, improve the circulatory system and protect your body from harmful influences. It is recommended to take 50 ml daily to improve health.
Aronia is a great natural means to strengthen immunity, improve cardiovascular health and prevent cancer. Thanks to its unique properties, it is a fruit that should have a place in every household. Whether you use it fresh, in the form of jam or as a tincture, aronia will help you keep your health in the best condition all year round.
