Blackthorn
Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)
Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), also known as sloe, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and locally in northwest Africa.
Pronunciation
Blackthorn: /ˈblækˌθɔːrn/
Etymology
The term "blackthorn" is derived from the Old English words "blæc" and "þorn", which literally mean "black" and "thorn" respectively. This is in reference to the dark bark of the plant and its sharp thorns.
Description
Blackthorn is a deciduous large shrub or small tree growing to 5 meters (16 ft) tall, with blackish bark and dense, stiff, spiny branches. The leaves are oval, 2–4.5 centimeters (0.79–1.77 in) long and 1.2–2 centimeters (0.47–0.79 in) broad. The flowers are 1.5 centimeters (0.59 in) diameter, with five creamy-white petals. The fruit, called a "sloe", is a drupe 10–12 millimeters (0.39–0.47 in) in diameter, black with a purple-blue waxy bloom, ripening in autumn, and harvested in October or November for making sloe gin.
Medical Uses
Blackthorn has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant's bark, leaves, and fruits are used to make medicine. It is used for various digestive complaints including diarrhea, dysentery, and general indigestion. Blackthorn flower is used for colds, breathing conditions, and sore mouth or throat. The fruit and leaves are used for bladder, kidney, and urinary tract ailments.
Related Terms
- Prunus: The genus to which Blackthorn belongs.
- Rosaceae: The rose family, which includes Blackthorn.
- Sloe gin: A red liqueur made with gin and sloes.
- Drupe: A type of fruit that includes sloes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Blackthorn
- Wikipedia's article - Blackthorn
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