Blackthorn, also known as sloe, is a strongly branched thorny shrub, rarely a small tree, from the rose family (Rosaceae). The full correct botanical name is Prunus spinosa L.; the species is accepted by international botanical databases and is native from Europe to Central Asia and Iran, as well as Northwest Africa.
The plant develops dark bark, firm thorny branches and small elliptic to obovate leaves with serrated margins. The white flowers appear in early spring, usually before the leaves unfold. The fruits are small, spherical drupes, dark blue to bluish-black, with a bluish waxy bloom and a strongly astringent, tart taste. They are harvested after full ripening and are a valuable fruit raw material for herbal blends, extracts, fruit-based formulations, beverages and herbal powders.
Basic Information
- Latin name: Prunus spinosa L.
- English name: Blackthorn / Sloe
- Part used: fruits (Fructus Pruni spinosae)
- Origin: Bulgaria
- Raw material type: wild-harvested
- Harvest period: late autumn, after full ripening
Raw Material Characteristics
The fruits are collected after ripening, when they develop their characteristic dark blue to bluish-black colour and pronounced astringent taste. The raw material is cleaned and dried carefully to preserve its colour, fruit profile and overall quality.
Chemical Composition
Blackthorn fruits contain mainly polyphenols, phenolic acids, anthocyanins, flavonoids, tannins, pectins, organic acids, sugars, vitamin C and minerals.
Suitable for the Production of
- herbal teas and fruit blends
- dry and liquid botanical extracts
- functional foods
- fruit beverages and syrups
- products with an astringent fruit profile
- cosmetic botanical extracts
- herbal powders
Medicinal Properties and Effects on the Body
Blackthorn fruit has the following properties:
- astringent action
- antioxidant
- anti-inflammatory
- antimicrobial
- supportive effect on digestive comfort
- supportive effect on metabolic balance
Forms Available
- sloe fruits (Fructus Pruni spinosae) – whole dried, crushed, cut to custom size upon request, or powdered
Quality and Documentation
Upon request, a Certificate of Analysis (COA), technical documentation, batch traceability and additional documents may be provided.
Inquiry
Contact us for availability, bulk quantities, samples and a custom quotation based on the required raw material specifications.
Gallery
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