The Blackberry Plant

(Western Herb)

LATIN NAME:

Rubus villosus

The Blackberry plant is also known as Cloudberry, Dewberry, Goutberry, Fingerberry and Bramble.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

Blackberries grow on a semi-evergreen, prickly bush. The plant has slender branches that feature sharp prickles and the leaves are finely hairy with three to five leaflets. Each blackberry is in a cluster of small black fruits. Blackberries are absolutely delicious to eat alone or in a fruit salad.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* gout

* bleeding gums

* diarrhea

* dysentery

* regulating menstruation

Use externally for:

* psoriasis

* scaly skin conditions

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE:

Over the counter:

Blackberries can be found in grocery stores and health food stores in various forms and is an added ingredient in many products. Follow and read the product label for instructions.

Parts used: Leaves, roots, berries

Constituents: Tannin

Actions: Expectorant, astringent

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS:

Blackberry has no known safety issues; just be carefull not to eat too many and get a tummy ache.