Black Chokeberry
Aronia melanocarpa
Aronia melanocarpa, commonly known as black chokeberry, originates from North America and has a long-standing traditional use in Native American medicine. While it is traditionally used for various ailments such as digestive issues and colds, there are no recorded specific uses within formalized traditional medical systems. Scientific evidence regarding Aronia melanocarpa's efficacy is limited due to the scarcity of human clinical trials. Studies have shown modest improvements in near contrast sensitivity and visual-field parameters following short-term supplementation with Aronia melanocarpa berries. Additionally, some circulating biomarkers exhibited directionally favorable changes, but these results are not statistically significant. The high anthocyanin content in Aronia melanocarpa berries contributes to various bioactivities, though more research is needed to fully understand its potential health benefits. Safety profiles for Aronia melanocarpa appear favorable; no major issues have been recorded. However, the introduction of bitterness when incorporating chokeberry pomace into food products can affect palatability. There are currently no reported drug interactions associated with Aronia melanocarpa, but further research is warranted to explore potential interactions and long-term effects.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Aronia melanocarpa showed no significant effects on fasting blood sugar, body weight, BMI, or waist circumference in the included studies.
- Aronia melanocarpa berries contain high levels of anthocyanins with various bioactivities, but clinical studies in humans are limited.
- Short-term AKB supplementation was associated with modest improvements in near contrast sensitivity and visual-field parameters, along with directionally favourable changes in some circulating biomarkers.
- The study found that incorporating Aronia melanocarpa (chokeberry) pomace into extruded sorghum snacks increased antioxidant activity and fiber content but also introduced bitterness, affecting overall liking.
- Aronia melanocarpa shows potential cognitive-enhancing, anxiolytic-like, and antidepressant-like effects through multiple mechanisms.
Frequently asked questions
What is Black Chokeberry?
Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Black Chokeberry?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Black Chokeberry; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Aronia melanocarpa showed no significant effects on fasting blood sugar, body weight, BMI, or waist circumference in the included studies.
How strong is the evidence for Black Chokeberry?
The strongest finding for Black Chokeberry carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Black Chokeberry safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Black Chokeberry in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Black Chokeberry interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Black Chokeberry in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Black Chokeberry?
Black Chokeberry is also known as: Арония черноплодная, aronia gueules-noires.
Is Black Chokeberry a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 The Effect of Aronia melanocarpa (Chokeberry) on Body Weight and Fasting Blood Sugar: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Standardized Berry Extract Improves Selected Visual Function Outcomes in Presbyopia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial with Exploratory Biomarker Analysis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A Review of Aronia melanocarpa's Phytochemical Profile, Health Benefits, and Applications in Agri-Food Systems. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Neuropsychopharmacological effects of Aronia melanocarpa: A narrative review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Technological, Functional, and Sensory Evaluation of Sorghum Extruded Snacks Enriched with Chokeberry Pomace. literature abstract metadata