A berry journey: From folklore to contemporary research

By Prof. Mayuri Napagoda

Neatly packed, eye-catching red strawberries are often found in supermarkets in Sri Lanka these days. Yet my awareness of the extensive berry world was unexpectedly refreshed recently, and surprisingly, that was not in a market but rather in a hospital consultation room. The consultant physician who oversees the medical care of my elderly parents recommended a supplement containing elderberry extract to boost their immunity during the recent flu outbreak. That minor detail opened a window into the vast world of berries that intertwines science, symbolism, culinary enjoyment, and even literary allure.

The notion of a berry-centric remedy brought back cherished memories of a dessert I learnt to bake while staying in Germany; the mixed berry crumble cake (Beeren-Streuselkuchen), a typical food item at summer gatherings. The German mixed berry crumble cake, featuring a delightful mix of various berries—­blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries—under a rich buttery streusel topping, is not merely a dessert; it represents an antioxidant-rich gift from nature.

The berry season in Germany was a time to celebrate not just healthy eating but also joyful living. Self-picking berry farms are widespread across Europe, offering families and nature lovers an opportunity to connect with the land. My experience at a self-picking strawberry farm was truly unforgettable. The farm provided a captivating environment where we could meander through lush green rows, collecting ripe, juicy fruits while softly humming the nostalgic melodies such as the Beatles' "Strawberry fields forever" and Nancy Sinatra's "Strawberries, cherries and an angel’s kiss in spring..." from her iconic track "Summer Wine".

Moreover, that small pack of elderberry supplement on our medicine shelf quietly evoked many memories tied to berries. It took me back to the cheerful rhythm of the childhood rhyme "Here we go round the mulberry bush," resonating with how berries have been a part of our songs, games, and imaginations for ages. It also made me think about a literary question I had never truly considered: could Huckleberry Finn, the mischievous boy in “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” (a novel by the American author Mark Twain), be named after an actual plant? Indeed, the huckleberry is a true fruit; a wild relative of the blueberry, native to North America, and an important component of indigenous diets. So it’s remarkable that berries in their diverse forms have integrated themselves not just into our diets, but also into our childhoods, literature, and everyday expressions.

But what exactly is a “berry”? Interestingly, not every fruit we usually call a berry is a true berry in the botanical context. For instance, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries do not qualify as true berries, while bananas, grapes, and kiwis do! In botanical terms, a true berry develops from a single ovary and has seeds embedded in the flesh. Yet, in daily life, the term "berry" has come to signify a wide variety of small, juicy fruits, well known for their bright colors and notable health benefits. Regardless of being available in fresh, frozen, dried, or juiced forms, berries have earned their place as superfoods. And these tiny fruits have embarked on an impressive journey from historical herbal remedies to the latest scientific studies conducted in state-of-the-art laboratories, particularly for their antioxidant capabilities, potential to combat diseases,  and nutritional advantages.

So let me guide you on a brief journey into the fascinating world of berries, where we will explore some of the most popular varieties in a bit more detail.

Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum, V.angustifolium) - Blueberries are true botanical berries that belong to the plant family Ericaceae and are known for their striking blue shade and sweet-tart flavour profile. Blueberries were used by indigenous tribes in North America for both dietary and medicinal purposes; therefore called "brain berries". Dried blueberries were combined with meat to make a high-energy food known as pemmican, and teas brewed from blueberry leaves were utilized for cough treatment. These berries are extremely rich in anthocyanins, which are responsible for the typical color as well as contributing to high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research suggests that regular consumption can support heart and brain health and may also improve insulin sensitivity.

Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) - Blackberries belong to the Rosaceae family and are classified as aggregate fruits, but not as true botanical berries. Blackberries are rich in dietary fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K, and potent antioxidants like ellagic acid and anthocyanins. Within traditional British folk medicine, blackberry leaves were known to calm sore throats, and blackberry vinegar was a widely accepted cure for fevers. Scientific studies have shown that blackberry extract may inhibit cancer cell proliferation and support oral and colon health.

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) - Whenever we think of a berry, strawberries are often the first to come to mind. Yet, this member of the Rosaceae family is not classified as a true botanical berry. The modern strawberry is a hybrid of American and European varieties, initially grown in France during the 18^th century. Historically, it was used as a symbol for Venus, the Goddess of Love, because of its heart shape and red colour. In Roman times, wild strawberries were highly valued for their medicinal uses; for example, to treat skin ailments and digestive issues. Strawberries contain high levels of vitamin C, folate, and phenolic compounds such as ellagitannins. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these fruits have been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.

 Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) - Cranberries belong to the Ericaceae family and are considered true berries. Originating from North America, cranberries were employed by Native Americans to heal wounds, avert infections, and colour textiles. These berries constituted a vital part of their diet, especially in the winter months. Currently, these berries are recognized for their effectiveness in preventing urinary tract infections. Cranberry juice and supplements are widely used for this reason, and research also points to benefits for heart health and lowering LDL cholesterol.

Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) - While the name includes "berry", this Rosaceae family member is classified botanically as an aggregate fruit, hence it is not a true berry. Raspberries were used by ancient Greeks and Romans for medicinal purposes, particularly as a tonic for the stomach and for easing labour pains. In Europe, raspberry leaf tea is still a popular remedy during pregnancy. Scientifically, raspberries have been identified to support weight management, reduce inflammation, and may help prevent certain cancers. Moreover, raspberries are rich in fibre, vitamin C, manganese, as well as ellagitannins- a class of polyphenols documented for their robust antioxidant properties.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) - Elderberries are true berries and belong to the Adoxaceae family. The elderberry tree, commonly known as the "Healer’s Tree" in European folklore, boasts a long history in traditional medicine for the treatment of colds, flu, and inflammatory disorders. Today, its application persists throughout Europe, where elderberry-based products like syrups, teas, lozenges, and supplements are readily found in pharmacies. Scientists have found that elderberries are abundant in flavonoids and anthocyanins with antiviral and immune-boosting properties. Clinical research indicates that elderberry extract may shorten the duration and lessen the severity of cold and flu symptoms, especially when consumed early in the course of the illness. Only the flowers and cooked or processed berries are employed for medicinal purposes due to the presence of toxic compounds like cyanogenic glycosides in raw berries, seeds, leaves, bark, and roots.  The flowers are often brewed as teas or made into cordials, while the berries are processed into syrups and extracts. With both traditional practices and modern scientific evidence backing its use, elderberry continues to hold a significant place as an immune booster.

Goji berry (Lycium barbarum) -This Solanaceae family member is also known as wolfberry, but is not a true botanical berry. Goji berries have been an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2,000 years. Ancient texts highlighted their role in improving eyesight, promoting longevity, and enhancing vitality. Often incorporated into soups and teas, goji berries were viewed as a symbol of youth. Modern scientific studies affirm their rich antioxidant profile and possible benefits for eye health, immunity and blood sugar management.

Mulberry (Morus alba, Morus nigra)-The sweet and juicy mulberries belong to the Moraceae family. Despite their name and appearance, mulberries are not considered true berries botanically. Mulberries are known for their high levels of resveratrol, which provides antioxidant, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective benefits. They are also abundant in iron and vitamin C. Studies indicate that mulberry extract may assist in regulating blood glucose levels and enhancing insulin sensitivity, which could be advantageous for diabetes management. Furthermore, animal studies have revealed hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of the fruit extract.

In brief, the world of berries is wonderfully diverse, with varieties that differ in colour, taste, size, and botanical classification, yet they all have one thing in common; high nutritional value.

While berries are not typically a staple in Sri Lankan households, they are progressively becoming available in our supermarkets, pharmacies, and kitchens. Whether inspired by a physician's recommendation, a fond memory of tasting berries abroad or a recent interest in healthy living, berries deliver a delightful combination of taste and health benefits in every bite. So feel free to let a little berry magic into your life…

(The writer is attached to the University of Ruhuna)

Blossoms of the Healer’s Tree: Elderberry trees decorate the Central European landscape in summer with clusters of delicate white flowers (Photo by Dr. Filip Kaftan)