About Salmonberry – Pearls Of Perfection! Salmonberries also known as Alaskan Berries are essentially a flowering shrub belonging to the rose family. They are not only grown for the delicious fruit they reap but also for the beautiful vibrant flowers they grow.
This Raspberry look-alike has a number of drupelets tightly bundled together, reflecting a similar appearance to that of a cluster of pearls! The color of this fruit ranges from a beautiful golden tainted yellow to a vibrant glossy orange red. Salmonberries have a pleasant palatable taste, not too sweet and not too sour, just perfect, and a delectable aroma!
These luscious, vibrant, glossy berries are at their best throughout late summer and early autumn. Salmonberries are natives to the North Americans and traditionally they were eaten with salmon, hence, the derivation of the name! Salmonberries are also commonly known as Alaska berries, most likely because they are found in abundance in the ‘Raspberry Island’ in Alaska.
This luscious, tantalizing fruit is practically fat free and houses a number of nutrients and health benefits. It’s not only appealing in appearance, but appealing to the health too!
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Salmonberry Nutritional Information
Salmonberries consist of a substantial amount of vitamin C and vitamin A. A 100g serving of salmonberries can provide for 15% of the daily required amount of vitamin C and 10% of that of vitamin A.
Additionally, salmonberries are a good source of minerals such as calcium, potassium and iron which are all necessary for optimal health. These sweet tasting berries are also a good source of dietary fiber, are low in sodium, zero fat and cholesterol free!
Health Benefits Of Salmonberry!
Loaded With Vitamin C!
Eat your way to vitamin C by consuming these delicious berries! Vitamin C is a highly efficient antioxidant that helps protect our body against viral and infectious diseases and makes for a very strong immunity system.
Say bye to that nasty flu and sore throat, when swallowing even that one piece of soft bread becomes awfully painful! This is where Vitamin C kicks in; it is highly effective in curing viral infections such as flus and colds. Vitamin C also decreases the possibility of atherosclerosis, asthma, rheumatoid, osteo-arthritis and recurrent ear infections.
Rich In Vitamin A!
Being a powerful antioxidant, vitamin A helps in protecting us from a host of problems such as that of cataracts, issues pertaining to the skin, pulmonary diseases and cancer. Vitamin A is also essential for a healthy immune system and is vital for healthy eyesight! Another area where vitamin A is highly beneficial is with its production of the compound called ‘calcium phosphate’, which prevents the formation of solid particles in the urinary system.
Get That Calcium!
Calcium is a very important mineral required for strong bones and bone growth. It is plays a significant role in controlling blood pressure, and some studies show an encouraging role of calcium in preventing colon cancer. Also, research shows that a calcium deficiency can lead to individuals being overweight!
Rich Source Of Potassium!
Salmonberries are an efficient source of potassium. Substantial levels of potassium in the body are crucial for a healthy functioning heart, nerve impulses and muscle contraction. Potassium also helps in the prevention of kidney stone formation and stabilizes blood pressure as well.
Medicinal Uses!
- A paste prepared from the leaves of the salmonberry shrubs are used to treat burns.
- The roots can be beneficial in treating various stomach complaints such as diarrhea.
- The root extracts can also be very helpful in easing labor pains.
- The bark of the salmonberry shrub is also very useful in treating burns, soars and skin infections.
- A poultice made from the bark can help relieve tooth aches and cure open wounds.
How To Enjoy!
- Salmonberries are sweet and delicious in taste and can be enjoyed raw!
- Salmonberries are often used to add flavor to candies and can make for some very yummy treats!
- Basic jam and jelly recipes can be used to enjoy this luscious, tasty, beautifully colored berry in the form of healthy jams!
- The leaves of the salmonberry shrub can be used as substitutes for tea, and make for a highly revitalizing and refreshing drink!
Possible Health Concerns
No side effects as such have been documented against this berry; however, excessive use may cause stomach problems. There is also a chance some individuals may be allergic to the fruit.