Blackcurrant is a perfectly normal shrub with tasty fruits in our Czech gardens. But he got a stop sign, and not for a little, but for a hundred years. It is forbidden to grow it in America, check it out.
Although blackcurrant is not new to America, as it was cultivated here already in the 16th century, in 1911 its professional cultivation was prohibited. And even for a whole hundred long years. Which means that from 2011 it should continue to be cultivated with peace of mind. However, its cultivation is still prohibited in some states of America. But what was actually the reason for the ban, and who or what did blackcurrant hurt so much?
You can find a YouTube video about the effects and benefits of black currant on the Happy People channel:
Source: Youtube
Blackcurrant and America
So why were blackcurrant bushes banned? There are many reasons, but the main reason for this ban was that blackcurrant bushes carry a fungus called pine rust. Which means that the main purpose of this ban was not to protect people, but trees.
As soon as it was learned in America that currants carry this fungus, it was very quickly declared illegal in order to protect the pine forests. Why are white pines so important to America? Because these trees were an absolutely integral part of the timber industry.
Okay, so black currants carry a fungus that practically kills pine trees under ideal conditions. But are currants dangerous for humans? If you grew up in the Czech Republic as a child and had black currants in your garden, then you surely know that they are edible and won’t burn a hole in your stomach.
But there are certain groups of people for whom blackcurrant is really not good. For example, if you are taking phenothiazines, eating blackcurrant is prohibited because it can increase the risk of a seizure.
When is black currant dangerous for humans?
You should not eat black currants if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood clotting medications. Consuming black currants could slow down your blood clotting. Some people have really bad side effects from blackcurrant oil as well.
In some people, this oil caused nausea, diarrhea and headaches. There are very few cases where blackcurrants become dangerous to humans. But caution is always in order.
Sources: www.mze.gov.cz, www.brnensky.denik.cz
