Biological activities, therapeutic potential, and pharmacological aspects of blackcurrants (<i>Ribes nigrum</i> L): A comprehensive review
Afaf Ejaz, Sadaf Waliat, Muhammad Afzaal, Farhan Saeed, Aftab Ahmad, Ahmad Hafiz Murtadha, Huda Ateeq, Asma Asghar, Yasir Abbas Shah, Ahmad Rafi, Mahbubur Rahman Khan
Abstract
Blackcurrant possesses various health-endorsing attributes owing to its polyphenol profile. Recent studies have demonstrated its therapeutic potential against various health disorders. Various bioactives present in blackcurrants have different functional and pharmacological aspects including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. The most dominant and important bioactive include anthocyanins, flavonols, phenolic acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Food formats derived from blackcurrants comprise pomace, juice, powder, and extracts. All these food formats have industrial, prebiotic, and pharmacological benefits. In the current article, the nutritional composition, industrial applications, and therapeutic potential are discussed in the recent literature. Moreover, novel extraction techniques for the extraction of bioactive compounds present in blackcurrants and their safety concerns have been elaborated.