Wild Blackberry

Blackberry is not only a fruit, it has a long history of use as a medicinal herb. The Greek physician Hippocrates soaked the leaves in white wine for difficult childbirth and to apply to wounds. The leaves, and especially the roots, are strong astringents and are excellent for the treatment of dysentery, diarrhea, hemorrhoids and cystitus. A gargle made by boiling the leaves makes a good mouthwash for sore throat, mouth ulcers, gum inflammation and thrush. A poultice of the leaves can be applied to skin for ulcers, fungal infections and abscesses. Studies have shown that the plant is a potent antibacterial and the leaves can be used for the management of diabetes mellitus.