Thanks to mariners, Europe recognized such a plant as black mountain ash - aronia.
The shrub not only took its place in the design of parks and gardens, the healing properties of its berries were appreciated. Since then, fans of traditional medicine use berries to treat many ailments, as well as for preventive purposes.
What is useful black mountain ash?
Tannins and pectins determine the tart taste of the plant berries. These are natural adsorbents that have a milder effect on the body than substances of synthetic origin. Scientists have found that these tart berries contain a lot of iodine and nicotinic acid (PP). Also, mountain ash black rightfully earned the title of the best multivitamin. It contains most of the existing vitamins and minerals. Using the berries of a plant, a person provides his body with fruit acids, volatile and anthocyanins.
Such a composition allows not only to use berries for the prevention of colds, to strengthen the protective functions of the body, but also has a noticeable effect on the course of many diseases. The use of chokeberry is recommended for those who suffer from diseases of the liver, kidneys, vascular system, pancreas and hormonal disorders. Surprisingly, it is a fact: this is one of the few plants, the use of the fruit of which extinguishes allergic reactions. This characteristic increases the value of mountain ash, as it can also be given to young children, who are often prone to allergies.
Black rowan tincture: recipe and method of application
In order to prepare three liters of the finished tincture, you will need: 0.5 kg of fresh ripe berries, 150 cherry leaves, 1.5 kg of granulated sugar, 2 tsp. citric acid and a liter of vodka.
Rowan fruits and cherry leaves should be thoroughly washed and dried. Grind mountain ash in a meat grinder with a fine sieve and combine with leaves. All this, pour 1.7 liters of water and boil for 20 minutes. After the mixture has cooled slightly, it must be filtered and sugar and citric acid added to it. Put it on the fire again, but you do not need to bring it to a boil. You just need to heat the liquid to dissolve the ingredients. Add vodka to the ready-made broth and store in jars or bottles tightly closed with lids. After a few weeks, the product is ready.
Add a few teaspoons of black rowan tincture to tea, and you will notice how this plant tones up, gives strength and protects against various diseases. For children, of course, such a tool is not suitable, but it does not matter. Black ash can be stored for a very long time and fresh.
It is believed that it is best to pick rowan berries after the first frost has passed. After this, the black mountain ash acquires a sweeter taste and becomes tart in moderation. In order for the fruits to be stored as long as possible, pluck them with a whole inflorescence. Dry the mountain ash in a dark and dry place, after which storage in paper bags or fabric bags is acceptable. Be sure to cover them tightly, otherwise rowan berries will become the prey of moths and midges.