Black Chokeberry

Aronia melanocarpa

Aronia melanocarpa, commonly known as black chokeberry, originates from North America. While it has a long-standing traditional use in Native American medicine for various ailments such as digestive issues and respiratory problems, no specific traditional uses are recorded for this plant in the context of modern or historical European or Asian practices. Scientific evidence regarding Aronia melanocarpa is limited due to the paucity of human clinical trials. Studies have shown that while Aronia berries contain high levels of anthocyanins with potential bioactivities, most research has been conducted on their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties rather than specific health outcomes. One study noted modest improvements in near contrast sensitivity and visual-field parameters among participants who consumed Aronia melanocarpa supplements for a short period, along with favorable changes in some circulating biomarkers. Safety data indicates that there are no major concerns associated with the use of Aronia melanocarpa; however, limited clinical trials preclude definitive conclusions. There is currently no evidence to suggest significant drug interactions, though further research may be necessary to fully understand potential interactions and safety profiles.

At a glance
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. A PMID
  • Aronia melanocarpa berries contain high levels of anthocyanins with various bioactivities, but clinical studies in humans are limited. D PMID
  • 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. B PMID
  • 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. D PMID
  • Aronia melanocarpa shows potential cognitive-enhancing, anxiolytic-like, and antidepressant-like effects through multiple mechanisms. D PMID

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

  1. 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
  2. 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
  3. T2 A Review of Aronia melanocarpa's Phytochemical Profile, Health Benefits, and Applications in Agri-Food Systems. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Neuropsychopharmacological effects of Aronia melanocarpa: A narrative review. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Technological, Functional, and Sensory Evaluation of Sorghum Extruded Snacks Enriched with Chokeberry Pomace. literature abstract metadata