Prunus spinosa, called blackthorn or sloe, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and locally in northwest Africa. It is also locally naturalized in New Zealand, Tasmania, and eastern North America.^[rx]

The fruits are used to make sloe gin in Britain and Dataran in the Navarre autonomous community of Spain. The wood is used to make walking sticks, including the Irish shillelagh.

Blackthorn or sloe known as Prunus Spinosa is a low, spreading, thorny bush or small tree of the plum genus of the family Rosaceae (rose family) among other economically important species, such as apple, apricot, blackberry, pear, and plum or prune, having black bark, white flowers, and deep blue fruits, usually rather acrid and not much larger than peas. It is actually a wild relative of the cultivated plum. The herb is native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. It is also locally naturalized in New Zealand, Tasmania, and eastern North America. Apart from blackthorn, it is popularly known as Mother of the wood, wishing thorn, wild plum, winter-picks, Sloe-Bush, grater, rasp, sloe, stickleback, Sleedoorn, Endrino, and Sloe of Europe. This tree is also called the tree of ‘ill omen’ and is considered to have magical properties in Britain. The specific name Spinosa is a Latin term indicating the pointed and thorn-like spur shoots characteristic of this species. The common name” blackthorn” is due to the thorny nature of the shrub, and it’s very dark bark.

Plant Description

Prunus spinosa is a relatively low-maintenance,slow-growing, compact, thorny, much-branched shrub or small tree that grows about 20 feet (6 m) tall with blackish bark and dense, stiff, spiny branches. The plant is found growing in hedges, steep slopes, non-dry wood borders, deciduous woodland, hedgerows, riverbanks, scrub, rocky places, waysides, rock outcrops, dry meadows, and coppices. Normally plant tolerates most soils, as long they are well-drained, except the acidic ones. The plant has rough and scaly dark grey to blackish, slightly grooved. The leaves are small, oval, alternate about 2–4.5 centimeters (0.79–1.77 in) long and 1.2–2 centimeters (0.47–0.79 in) broad, obovate to oblanceolate, or elliptical, with margins finely toothed, dull green in color and hairless above, usually hairy on the veins underneath. The petioles are 0.2-1 cm long, often hairy. The stipules are elongate, glandular, toothed, and usually longer than petioles.

Flower & Fruit

The flowers are white, 1-1.7 cm wide, usually solitary, appearing before leaves, numerous, on about 0.5 cm long pedicels. The sepals are triangular-ovate, often glandular toothed. Petals have a short claw (a thinner part at the base of the petal). The stamens are usually 20, about 0.5 cm long. The anthers are yellow or red. This species flowers from March to May. Fertilized flowers are followed by drupe that is 10–12 millimeters (3⁄8–1⁄2 in)in diameter, globose, purple covered with a frost-like bloom, ripening bluish-black. It is a thin fleshed fruit that has greenish pulp that is sour and astringent, not easily detaching from the endocarp.

History

Blackthorn is native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. After blackthorn charcoal and its fruit seeds were found in an archaeological site near Dublin, it has been discussed that the herb’s use dates as far back as the 13th century. The history of blackthorn is rooted in the United Kingdom, as blackthorn was traditionally used as a”cattle-proof” hedge to keep the cattle inside the perimeter of the and. Blackthorn was also commonly used as a wind and snow screen for land because of its density. Blackthorn is still studied today, as it is supposed to possess many medicinal properties.

The berries taste better and are not so bitter if harvested after a few touches of frost. The sloes used to be buried in straw-lined pits for a few months to ripen them and make them sweeter. A Neolithic lake village in Glastonbury was found to have such a pit, full of sloe stones. The word sloe comes from Old English slāh: a similar word is noted in all the Germanic/Slavic languages. The term sloe, or SLA/slāh, means not the fruit but the hard trunk, being connected with a verb signifying to slay or strike, probably because the wood of this tree was used as a flail, and now makes a bludgeon. It was supposed that Christ’s Crown of Thorns was made from blackthorn, and to bring blackthorn blossom into the home meant a certain death would follow. Blackthorn in bloom is considered an emblem of life and death together as the flowers appear when the tree has no leaves. It is said that hawthorn will destroy any blackthorn near it. It is believed that if the blackthorn and the hawthorn have many berries then the ensuing winter will be severe. In Irish folklore, it was believed that “the little people” lived in blackthorn bushes. Fairy tribes, called Lunantishees, are said to guard blackthorn trees and will not let you cut branches off them on November 11 or May 11. If you do you will be cursed with bad luck. It was also bad luck to wear the flowers in your buttonhole.

Minerals	Amount	% DV
Calcium, Ca	45.3 mg	4.53%
Iron, Fe	0.76 mg	9.50%
Magnesium, Mg	22.6 mg	5.38%
Phosphorus, P	42.9 mg	6.13%
Potassium, K	453 mg	9.64%
Sodium, Na	22.8 mg	1.52%
Zinc, Zn	0.263 mg	2.39%
Copper, Cu	0.166 mg	18.44%
Manganese, Mn	0.117 mg	5.09%

Vitamins	Amount	% DV
Water-soluble Vitamins
Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)	3.2 mg	N/D
Vitamin C (Dehydroascorbic acid)	9.16 mg	10.18%
Fat-soluble Vitamins
Vitamin A, RAE	27 µg	3.86%
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)	5.23 mg	34.87%
Tocopherol, beta	0.08 mg	N/D
Tocopherol, gamma	0.09 mg	N/D

Organic Acids	Amount	% DV
Oxalic acid	66.8 mg	N/D
Quinic acid	11.4 mg	N/D
Shikimic acid	1.8 mg	N/D
Malic acid	291 mg	N/D
Citric acid	33.5 mg	N/D
Fumaric acid	1.59 mg	N/D
Succinic acid	4.8 mg	N/D
Phenolics (total)	2884 mg	N/D
Phenolic acids	729 mg	N/D
Hydroxybenzoic acids	1.51 mg	N/D
Hydroxycinnamic acids	32.2 mg	N/D
Flavonoids	208 mg	N/D
Flavonols	77.8 mg	N/D
Anthocyanins	1431 mg	N/D
Sorbitol	4.07 g	N/D

Lipids	Amount	% DV
Fatty acids, total saturated	35.5 g	N/D
Lauric acid (dodecanoic acid) 12:00	1.13 g	N/D
Myristic acid  14:00(Tetradecanoic acid)	0.75 g	N/D
Palmitic acid 16:00 (Hexadecanoic acid)	14.9 g	N/D
Stearic acid 18:00 (Octadecanoic acid)	8.3 g	N/D
Arachidic acid 20:00 (Eicosanoic acid)	3.93 g	N/D
Behenic acid (docosanoic acid) 22:00	1.26 g	N/D
Lignoceric acid (tetracosanoic acid) 24:00	1.09 g	N/D
Fatty acids, total monounsaturated	36.4 g	N/D
Palmitoleic acid 16:1 (hexadecenoic acid)	0.88 g	N/D
Oleic acid 18:1 (octadecenoic acid)	32.8 g	N/D
Gadoleic acid 20:1 (eicosenoic acid)	0.49 g	N/D
Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated	28.1 g	N/D
Linoleic acid 18:2 (octadecadienoic acid)	18.9 g	N/D
Linolenic acid 18:3 (Octadecatrienoic acid)	6.69 g	N/D
Omega-3 fatty acids (n-3)	7.5 g	N/D
Omega-6 fatty acids (n-6)	20.5 g	N/D
Omega-9 fatty acids (n-9)	35.4 g	N/D

*Above mentioned Percent Daily Values (%DVs) are based on 2,000 calorie diet intake. Daily values (DVs) may be different depending upon your daily calorie needs. Mentioned values are recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. They are not rxharun.com recommendations. Calculations are based on average age of 19 to 50 years and weigh 194 lbs. Source: https://www.springer.com/ 

Health Benefits of Blackthorn

The diuretic, laxative, astringent, and anti-inflammatory qualities of blackthorn have given this herb recognition for its medicinal uses in the following ways:

1. Improves Digestion

Prunus spinosa or blackthorn helps to improve digestion, relieves constipation, heals dyspepsia, reduces bloating, and cures diarrhea, mainly in children. Additionally, herbal tea prepared by steeping two teaspoons of dried blackthorn flowers in a cup of water stimulates appetite. Just consuming blackthorn jam or marmalade cures indigestion or upset stomach.

2. Treats Breathing Disorders

A preparation that contains flowers of Prunus spinosa is considered useful for the treatment of ailments of the respiratory tract. Due to their expectorant properties, the flowers can fight the common cold and cough. Decoction prepared from the bark of this tree can be taken to lower fever.

3. Dental caries

Prunus Spinosa can be used to prevent caries in the teeth. Antibacterial action of this herb against Streptococcus Mutans, a gram-positive bacterium, can help to reduce the incidence of tooth decay and caries.

Additionally, it also acts as an antioxidant and prevents oxidative stress that is known to increase the risk of dental caries. It works by preventing the free radicals from attacking the teeth and initiating the process of tooth decay.

4. Helps in Detoxification of Body

Herb is utilized for the purpose of detoxification and is known to have depurative properties. This herb tends to eliminate any toxic substances present in the blood and is known to be rich in rutin which is one of the prime compounds which helps in detoxification. It is also known to prevent gout and rheumatism from occurring.

5. Cancer Management

Prunus spinosa fruit is effective in the management of cancer. It prevents the growth of cancer cells and reduces their multiplication. Health-promoting compounds present in prunus Spinosa suppress the production of inflammatory compounds which otherwise damage the DNA and further worsen the condition.

Thus, it makes the environment disapproving for the cancer cells to survive and reduces the population of these cancer cells.

6. Treats Kidney and Bladder Problems

Flowers of Prunus spinosa can be used to remove fluid retention, treat kidney stones and other kidney problems because of their diuretic properties. Additionally, the herb is considered good for managing bladder spasms. It also helps relieve cramps in the stomach and nerve pain.

7. Relieves Fatigue and General Exhaustion

Drinking water infused with powdered blackthorn bark has a calming effect on the nerves. Thus, it helps relieve fatigue and boosts vitality. Additionally, blackthorn extract mixed in tea or water is also useful in this regard.

When dealing with issues like insomnia, shivers, lack of interest, etc. due to menopause, one can steep half a teaspoon of dried blackthorn flowers in a cup of boiling water for about five minutes. Strain and drink this herbal tonic when it cools.

8. Cardiac disorders

Prunus Spinosa is highly effective in the treatment and prevention of heart diseases. This herb is loaded with powerful flavonoids including Quercetin, Binofuranoside, and Kaempferol. It consists of phenolic acids and anthocyanins, which can promote the health of the heart. It improves heart functions and thus, decreases the risk of cardiac diseases such as cardiomyopathy, heart attacks, and cardiac failure.

Flavonoid compounds present in Prunus Spinosa reduce inflammation in the heart and help to fight oxidative stress. These effects of the herb can prevent damage to the cardiac cells and muscles against inflammation and oxidative stress thus reducing the risk of heart diseases.

9. Reduces Inflammation of Mouth and Pharynx

The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines has approved the use of this herb for getting rid of mild inflammation of the mouth and pharyngeal mucosa.

When dealing with a sore throat, you can gargle with fresh juice extracted from ripe sloe berries. Additionally, you may gargle with an infusion prepared from blackthorn leaves to heal inflamed tonsils.

To prepare this infusion boil about four blackthorn leaves in 16 ounces of water for 10 minutes. Strain the solution. Gargle with it two to three times a day.

10. Works as an Excellent Beauty Remedy

A pulp of ripened sloe berries is mixed with other ingredients to make commercially available astringent face masks to enhance your beauty.

Besides, you can apply blackthorn extract on your skin to maintain skin elasticity for younger-looking skin as it is rich in vitamin C and tannins. The application of blackthorn oil can prevent stretch marks.

11. Sore Throat and Bad Breath

Based on studies, blackthorn has anti-inflammatory, astringent, and laxative properties. Its fruit can be used as a mouth rinse to remove bacteria or viruses causing sore throat, coughs, tonsillitis, and other common oral-related issues. It also has a great amount of anti-bacterial agents that help fight bad breath. It can even recover breathing for people with asthma or those who unexpectedly suffer from breathing disorders.

Traditional uses and benefits of Blackthorn

• Flowers, bark, leaves, and fruits are aperient, astringent, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic, febrifuge, laxative, and stomachic.
• An infusion of the flowers is used in the treatment of diarrhea (especially for children), bladder and kidney disorders, stomach weakness, etc.
• In small amounts, this exceedingly poisonous compound (Hydrogen cyanide) stimulates respiration, improves digestion, and gives a sense of well-being.
• Fruit is good for all kinds of fluxes and hemorrhages.
• It is used in gargarisms for sore mouths and gums, and to fasten loose teeth.
• Bark reduced to power, and taken in doses of two drachms, has cured some agues.
• Juice expressed from the unripe fruit is a very good remedy for fluxes of the bowels.
• Flowers and fruit can make a tonic for diarrhea.
• Sloe syrup has anti-rheumatic properties and can help fight influenza.
• The plant is also used for nosebleeds, constipation, and eye pain.
• Sloes can also be made into a paste for whitening teeth and removing tartar, and the leaves can make a mouthwash.
• ­­­Some people apply black hawthorn flowers directly on the skin for rashes, “skin impurities,” and “blood purification.”
• Peeled bark boiled in water was a gypsy remedy for bronchitis.
• A compote or jam made from the berries combats poor appetite.
• An infusion made from dried flowers is used for blood cleansing in skin diseases and rheumatic complaints and as a gargle for mild inflammation of the mouth and throat.
• In the Tyrol, a Sloe is tied to the left side of the chest as a remedy against jaundice.
• In many regions, there is a custom of eating three flower stalks of the blackthorn bush three times in succession. This is said to provide protection against fever and gout.

Culinary uses

• Fruit can be consumed raw or cooked.
• Fruit is more usually used in jellies, syrups conserves, etc., and as a flavoring for sloe gin and other liqueurs.
• Some fruits that we ate in December were fairly pleasant raw.
• The unripe fruit is pickled like an olive in France.
• Seed can also be consumed raw or cooked.
• Do not eat the seed if it is too bitter.
• Leaves are used as a tea substitute.
• Dried fruits can be added to herbal teas.
• Flowers are edible and can be crystallized or sugared.

How to Consume Blackthorn

While blackthorn is more commonly known for its industrial and culinary uses, it can also be consumed in medicinal preparations that concentrate its healing benefits and can be easily prepared at home.

Natural Forms

• Cooked: Fruits of blackthorn are commonly used to prepare fruit pies, jams, dyes, and syrups.
• Infusion: An infusion can be brewed from one to two grams of dried blackthorn flowers. One or two cups can be taken per day.
• Gargle: Blackthorn gargle is made by brewing an infusion of two to four grams of dried fruit. Fresh fruit juice can also be gargled. This is used to reduce mouth and throat inflammation.

Herbal Remedies & Supplements

• Capsules: Dried leaves and berries of blackthorn are finely ground and consumed in these supplemental forms, which offer safe, standardized doses, sparing the herb’s bitter flavor.

Buying

Natural Forms

Often commercialized under its alternative name of sloe, blackthorn dried berries and leaves can be purchased online in bulk form or as teabags.

Berries of the plant are usually consumed as juices, syrups, jams, and pies because they are quite bitter on their own and can be bought in some organic markets and online.

Herbal Remedies & Supplements

Under the names Prunus spinosa and sloe berry, capsules of blackthorn are easily available for purchase through online retailers.

Blackthorn products are becoming more widely available in the US due to the herb’s increasing popularity.

Different Uses of Blackthorn

• Alcohol industry: Blackthorn is most well-known for its common use in making gin, most commonly called sloe gin. Wine, juice, and cider are also beverages commonly flavored with blackthorn.
• Timber: Blackthorn wood is especially hard and it has been used to make walking sticks. A ‘shillelagh’ is a highly polished stick of blackthorn wood that was made and used in Ireland for self-defense and it is now used in a form of traditional fighting or martial art.
• Living fence: Widely grown as a hedge plant, blackthorn can also act as a ‘nurse plant’, allowing other plants to develop protected from possible damage by grazing animals. The shrub is also used to keep cattle within property lines.
• Fuel: Blackthorn bark makes good firewood because it burns slowly and provides sufficient heat.

Other Facts

• The bark is a good source of tannin.
• It is used to make ink.
• Juice of unripe fruits is used as a laundry mark, it is almost indelible.
• Pulped ripe fruit is used cosmetically in making astringent face-masks.
• A green dye can be obtained from the leaves.
• Dark grey to green dye can be obtained from the fruit.
• Bark, boiled in an alkali, produces a yellow dye.
• Sloe can be used as a hedge in exposed maritime positions.
• Because of its suckering habit, the plant is a natural pioneer species, attacking cultivated fields and creating conditions conducive to the regeneration of woodland.
• Wood is very hard and is used for turnery, the teeth of rakes, etc.
• Suitable branches are used for making walking sticks and are highly valued for this purpose because of their twisted and interesting shapes.
• It works as an animal-proof or cattle-proof impenetrable hedging plant.
• The plant is also making good firewood as it burns slowly and emits little smoke.

Precautions

• Oral consumption of blackthorn is contraindicated in women during pregnancy and lactation.
• Hydrogen cyanide in excess can cause respiratory failure and even death.
• High dosages may lead to toxicity.
• Blackthorn contains cyanogenic glycosides, which are toxic in large quantities, and long-term consumption is not advised.
• Long-term use may cause cyanide poisoning include shortness of breath, weakness, light-headedness, seizures, stupor, irregular heartbeat, and cardiovascular collapse, causing coma and death in extreme cases.

Blackthorn winter

On March 13, 2008, “Geoff F” posted a report on the Wild About Britain website: “Today I noticed some Blackthorn bushes were just starting to flower. Snapes Point, Salcombe Harbour, S. Devon close to the sea. Local tradition is that we will have a touch of cold and unsettled weather with strong easterly winds now; known in this area as the Blackthorn Winter…I did know somebody who would try to shake off the blackthorn flowers at the bottom of his garden in the hope that the weather would improve then.” On March 30, 2010, The Times reported “only two years ago the Easter weekend in late March was marked by a hefty snowfall that produced a winter wonderland. This cold spell was so common in the past that it used to be called the ‘blackthorn winter,’ when ancient folklore described how the blossom of blackthorn bushes appeared during mild weather, only to be destroyed by a cold snap at the end of March.” Thus the 2008 forecast proved accurate that year.

References

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