Silver buffaloberry may not be a household name, but this little berry is a nutrition powerhouse that offers a variety of health benefits. Native to North America, silver buffaloberry contains a range of beneficial compounds that help fight inflammation, improve bone health, and support overall well-being.
What is Silver Buffaloberry?
Silver buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea) is a shrub that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. It is found in western North America, from Alaska to Mexico, and grows in arid and semi-arid regions. The shrub can reach up to 4 meters in height and produces small, tart berries that are high in nutrition and antioxidants.
Nutritional Value of Silver Buffaloberry
Silver buffaloberry is a nutrient-dense fruit that is low in calories but packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. A 100-gram serving of the fruit provides:
- 91 calories
- 20 grams of carbohydrates
- 2.7 grams of protein
- 1 gram of fat
- 7.6 grams of fiber
- 240% of the daily value (DV) for vitamin C
- 38% DV for vitamin A
- 26% DV for potassium
- 17% DV for iron
- 16% DV for magnesium
The Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Silver Buffaloberry
Inflammation is a natural response by the body to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of various diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. Silver buffaloberry contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
One of these compounds is quercetin, a flavonoid that is abundant in silver buffaloberry. Studies have shown that quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Additionally, silver buffaloberry contains a unique compound called betulinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Betulinic acid can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that trigger inflammation in the body. It also has been shown to induce apoptosis, or cell death, in cancer cells.
The Bone-Protective Effects of Silver Buffaloberry
Silver buffaloberry has also been found to have bone-protective effects. In a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, researchers found that silver buffaloberry extract increased bone density and improved bone structure in rats. This effect was attributed to the presence of flavonoids and other compounds in the fruit.
Incorporating Silver Buffaloberry into Your Diet
Silver buffaloberry has a tart flavor that is similar to cranberries or currants. The berries can be eaten fresh or used in various culinary preparations. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate silver buffaloberry into your diet:
- Add silver buffaloberry to smoothies or yogurt bowls
- Use silver buffaloberry in place of cranberries or cherries in baked goods
- Mix silver buffaloberry with other fruits to make a tangy fruit salad
- Use silver buffaloberry to make a homemade jam or jelly
Conclusion
Silver buffaloberry may be a lesser-known fruit, but its nutritional benefits make it a valuable addition to any diet. With its anti-inflammatory and bone-protective effects, silver buffaloberry is a great choice for anyone looking to support their overall health and well-being.
If you love anti-inflammatory fruits, check out the rest of our fruits section here, or pop over to our anti-inflammatory herbs section where you can find powerful goodness to add to any autoimmune smoothie.