How to Cure With Blackberries

Blackberry plants have been used for centuries in medicinal applications. The berries, plant and root-bark can be used to treat a multitude of disorders. The blackberry plant can be used as an astringent for open wounds and sores and also taken internally as a tincture or infusion to treat conditions like diarrhea and gout. The plant is sometimes referred to as "scaldhead," referring to its use in treating scalding burns of the skin. The berries and plant can be eaten raw or dried to obtain its medicinal benefits.

Instructions

1

Harvest the blackberry fruit and plant. Pick berries from plants that have uniformly black, dull berries. Blackberries are shiny when almost mature but begin to dull when they reach full maturity; the most benefit can be had from the fully mature berries. After picking the berries from the plant, harvest it by digging and pulling it out from the root. Collect the berries in a shallow container so that the berries do not get mashed during collection.

2

Dry the berries and plant. Although the berries can be eaten raw to get the benefit of their antioxidant and phytonutrient content, drying the berries and other parts of the plant will enable them to be prepared in tinctures, infusions and poultices. To dry the berries and plants, store them separately in a relatively dark, dry area until the majority of the moisture evaporates. The drying process can take up to two weeks.

3

Prepare the berries and plant for immediate medicinal use. To make a poultice to use topically, pour boiling water on the dried berries and plants. Place them in between two pieces of cheesecloth and apply to the affected area. Making an infusion, like a tea, is a common way to ingest blackberry. Put the dried berries and plant into a mug, pour boiling water over them, strain the water to remove large particles and drink.

4

Prepare the berries and plant for storable medicinal use. An ointment can be prepared and stored for up to a month. Simmer the blackberry products in sesame oil over a low flame until fragrant. Cool and combine the product with a viscous lotion to make the ointment. For a storable ingestible product, create a tincture. In a small glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid, combine 4 oz. of the dried berries and plant with 4 oz. of water and 8 oz. of strong grain alcohol. Store in a dark place for two weeks, at which time it can be used medicinally.