Rowan Berries: Nutritional Powerhouses, Traditional Remedies, and Modern Innovations
Rowan berries (Sorbus aucuparia) are small fruits, ranging in colour from bright red, orange, yellow, to pink, depending on the variety, and are commonly found in colder regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, they are valued for both their nutritional and medicinal properties.
Nutritionally, rowan berries are known for their high vitamin C content—up to three times more than oranges—which historically helped prevent scurvy during long winters. The berries also contain significant amounts of potassium, calcium, and phosphorus. Sorbitol, a sugar alcohol present in the fruit, makes rowanberries suitable as a sweetener for diabetics. Additionally, they are high in antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which help protect against oxidative stress and related conditions like cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
Rowan berries have a long history of use in traditional medicine. They were commonly used for treating flu, fever, rheumatism, and infections due to their bioactive compounds. Research supports the presence of secondary metabolites (SMs) such as phenolics and terpenoids in rowan berries, which give the plant antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties. Studies have demonstrated the ability of rowan berry extracts to inhibit bacterial growth, including harmful strains like Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
Rowan berries also play an ecological role. They remain on the tree through winter, providing an essential food source for birds such as thrushes and waxwings. The birds aid in seed dispersal, promoting biodiversity and forest regeneration. Rowan trees are resilient, able to thrive in nutrient-poor soils and high altitudes, making them useful in forest restoration and erosion prevention.
The bitterness of raw rowan berries, caused by parasorbic acid, limits their consumption in raw form. However, cooking or freezing neutralises the acid, making them suitable for use in jellies, jams, syrups, and alcoholic beverages like schnapps or vodka. Rowan berries were historically used to flavour alcoholic drinks, where their astringent taste added complexity.
Recent studies have explored the use of rowan berry extracts in nanotechnology, particularly in the green synthesis of silver and gold nanoparticles. The bioactive compounds in rowan berries act as natural reducing and stabilising agents, converting metal ions into nanoparticles. This environmentally conscious method avoids the use of harsh chemicals. Silver nanoparticles have well-known antimicrobial properties and are used in medical devices and water purification, while gold nanoparticles are used in drug delivery and cancer treatments.
In cosmetics and wellness, rowan berries have shown potential due to their high antioxidant content, particularly vitamin C, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants help protect the skin from oxidative stress, reduce signs of aging, and support collagen production. Rowan berries also contain sorbitol, which acts as a natural humectant, aiding in skin hydration. Their anti-inflammatory properties make them useful for soothing irritated skin and reducing redness. Rowan berry extracts are being explored in skin creams, anti-aging products, and moisturising lotions. Additionally, the vitamins and bioactive compounds present in the fruit can contribute to scalp health and protect hair from environmental damage, making them suitable for hair care products.
Furthermore, rowan berries have traditional uses in promoting general well-being. Historically, they were used as remedies for infections, flu, and digestive issues due to their diuretic, vitaminising, and anti-inflammatory effects. Rowan berry extracts are increasingly being included in wellness products such as teas and dietary supplements for their immune-boosting properties.
The wood of the rowan tree is also valued in carpentry due to its durability and fine grain, making it suitable for making tools, furniture, and walking sticks.
In summary, rowan berries are not only nutritionally rich but also have applications in traditional medicine, cosmetics, wellness, ecology, and modern technology. Their biological resilience and the bioactive compounds they contain make them a subject of ongoing interest in various fields.