The most important health benefits of cloudberry include its ability to protect against cardiovascular diseases, detoxify the body, and strengthen the immune system. It also helps slow the signs of aging, stimulates circulation, prevents diabetes, and improve digestion.
What is Cloudberry?
Cloudberry is a delicious fruit that comes from a rhizomatous herb scientifically known as Rubus chamaemorus. [1]Many people are unfamiliar with cloudberries because they primarily grow in arctic or alpine environments, as well as in boreal forests in the northern hemisphere. They are commonly grown in Russia, Northern Europe, Scandinavia, some parts of the British Isles, Newfoundland, Canada, and Alaska.
They are highly prized as culinary components, due to the quality of their juice and tar, and for their wealth of vitamins, minerals, and organic compounds (particularly ellagic acid) that can significantly benefit overall health. These berries are often used in candies, jams, alcoholic drinks, and various other baked goods. They can also be eaten raw, but the flavor is quite tart, so most people prepare sweetened recipes. [2]
Cloudberries is an important part of Northerner’s culture, also known as the gold of the Arctic. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Serving Size : Nutrient Value Water [g] 87 Energy 51 Energy [kJ] 214 Protein [g] 2.4 Total lipid (fat) [g] 0.8 Ash [g] 1.2 Carbohydrate, by difference [g] 8.6 Calcium, Ca [mg] 18 Iron, Fe [mg] 0.7 Phosphorus, P [mg] 35 Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid [mg] 158 Thiamin [mg] 0.05 Riboflavin [mg] 0.07 Niacin [mg] 0.9 Vitamin A, IU [IU] 210 Sources include : USDA [3]
Health Benefits of Cloudberry
Let’s take a closer look at some of the health benefits of cloudberry.
Boosted Immunity
The high content of vitamin C and vitamin A make cloudberries very beneficial to the immune system. Vitamin C stimulates the production of white blood cells and acts as an antioxidant, which neutralizes free radicals throughout the body. Vitamin A, similarly, has carotenoids that act as antioxidants, protecting the skin and eyes from breaking down and aging. [4]
Improved Circulation
Cloudberries are packed with iron as well as many other beneficial minerals. The iron content is specifically important for circulation, as it is a key component in red blood cell production. With enough iron in your diet, you reduce your chances of developing anemia.
Heart Health
Cloudberries have a unique component that most fruits lack, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The HDL or good cholesterol in cloudberries can actually help balance your cholesterol levels and reduce the strain on your cardiovascular system. [5]
Detoxification
Cloudberries have long been used as a diuretic to stimulate urination. They help keep the body free of dangerous toxins and eliminate excess water, salts, and even fat. Also, they help relieve the pressure on the liver and kidneys as well when your body is regularly flushing itself clean. [6]
Antioxidant Properties
Apart from vitamin C in cloudberries, there are also certain phytosterols and carotenoids, not to mention the powerful effects of ellagic acid. They have been linked to slowing the aging process, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, and lowering the chances of chronic diseases. Cloudberries also have specific chemicals that are antibacterial and antiviral in nature, making it a very important fruit. [7] [8]
Digestive Health
According to a report published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology, the phenolics in cloudberries prevent gastrointestinal pathogens from developing. Staphylococcus and Salmonella are the most sensitive bacteria to cloudberry. [9]
Improved Bone Health
Cloudberries are rich in magnesium, which is a key component of bone health, as it increases the uptake of calcium by the body. This can help prevent osteoporosis and keep the bones healthy. [10]
Word of Caution: It is not commonly known as an allergen, but there is a unique combination of nutrients and acids in cloudberry, which may affect sensitive people. In other words, enjoy cloudberries in moderation and monitor your body to see how it responds.
