Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Boysenberry

Also known as: Boysenberry, Rubus ursinus × Rubus idaeus

Overview

Boysenberry is a dark purple hybrid berry fruit, primarily derived from a cross between *Rubus ursinus* (Pacific blackberry) and *Rubus idaeus* (red raspberry). It is highly valued for its rich content of polyphenols, particularly anthocyanins, ellagitannins, and chlorogenic acid, which contribute to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As a dietary supplement, boysenberry is gaining attention for its potential to support cardiovascular health, mitigate inflammation, and offer respiratory benefits. While research is still emerging, preclinical studies and a limited number of human trials have shown promising results, particularly concerning its effects on vascular function and inflammatory pathways. The evidence base is considered moderate, with ongoing research aiming to further elucidate its full spectrum of health benefits and optimal usage.

Benefits

Boysenberry offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its rich polyphenol content: - **Cardiovascular Health:** Preclinical studies, specifically in obese mouse models, demonstrate that boysenberry polyphenols can significantly improve endothelial function. They achieve this by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enhancing nitric oxide (NO) production, leading to improved vascular relaxation. This suggests a strong potential for preventing and managing endothelial dysfunction, a key factor in cardiovascular diseases. The evidence for this benefit is strong in animal models. - **Anti-inflammatory Effects:** Research indicates that boysenberry, particularly when combined with other fruit concentrates, can reduce immune cell infiltration and promote an anti-inflammatory macrophage phenotype (M2) in lung tissue, as observed in mouse models of allergic airway inflammation. This suggests a role in modulating inflammatory responses, potentially benefiting conditions involving chronic inflammation. The evidence is moderate, primarily from preclinical studies. - **Biomarker and Metabolic Improvements:** A systematic review of berry polyphenols, including boysenberry, has shown that their consumption leads to increased plasma metabolites associated with improved endothelial function and enhanced antioxidant status in humans. While this evidence is part of a broader category of berries, it supports the systemic bioavailability and beneficial metabolic impact of boysenberry polyphenols. The evidence is moderate, derived from systematic reviews encompassing various berry types.

How it works

Boysenberry's health benefits stem from its rich polyphenol content, primarily anthocyanins, which exert their effects through several key mechanisms. These compounds significantly reduce oxidative stress by suppressing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibiting p53 protein levels, thereby mitigating cellular senescence and vascular aging. They also enhance the dimerization of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), leading to increased bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO), which is crucial for promoting vasodilation and maintaining vascular homeostasis. Furthermore, boysenberry polyphenols contribute to anti-inflammatory effects by shifting macrophage phenotypes towards the M2 (anti-inflammatory) state and influencing the expression of cytokines like CXCL10 and CCL4. Upon consumption, these polyphenols are absorbed and metabolized into various phenolic metabolites, which circulate in the bloodstream and contribute to systemic biological activities.

Side effects

Boysenberry is generally considered safe, with no significant adverse effects reported in either animal or human studies at typical dietary or supplemental doses. Given its food-based origin, common side effects are expected to be minimal and are not well-documented in scientific literature. There are currently no known specific drug interactions or contraindications reported for boysenberry polyphenols. However, due to limited extensive research on specific populations, caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with severe underlying medical conditions. While it is a natural product, individuals with known allergies to other berries or fruits in the *Rubus* genus should exercise caution. As with any supplement, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating boysenberry into a therapeutic regimen, especially if taking other medications or managing chronic health issues.

Dosage

Specific dosing guidelines for boysenberry polyphenols are not yet standardized in clinical practice. Research studies have utilized varying forms and concentrations. Animal studies typically employ polyphenol extracts at doses equivalent to dietary intake, while human studies have used juice concentrates with quantified polyphenol content, often rich in cyanidin glycosides. For instance, some studies on berry polyphenols, which include boysenberry, suggest an intake range of 100-500 mg/day of total polyphenols. The optimal dose for achieving specific clinical benefits remains to be definitively established through further human trials. Regarding timing, effects on endothelial function have been observed after several weeks of consistent supplementation in animal models, while acute anti-inflammatory effects have also been reported. Due to the lack of standardized human trials, it is difficult to provide precise recommendations for different purposes or specific absorption factors. There are no established upper limits or safety thresholds, but consumption within typical dietary ranges is generally considered safe.

FAQs

Is boysenberry safe to consume as a supplement?

Yes, boysenberry is generally regarded as safe based on current preclinical and limited human evidence, with no significant adverse effects reported at typical dietary or supplement doses.

How long does it take to see benefits from boysenberry supplementation?

Vascular benefits have been observed with chronic intake in animal models, suggesting that human benefits may require consistent supplementation over weeks to months. Acute effects on inflammation have also been reported.

Can boysenberry replace prescription medications?

No, boysenberry should not replace prescribed medications. It may complement conventional therapies, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment for any health condition.

Are the benefits derived from whole boysenberry fruit or extracts?

Both whole boysenberry fruit and anthocyanin-rich extracts have demonstrated beneficial effects in studies, indicating that the active compounds are present in various forms of the fruit.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6091942/ – This preclinical randomized controlled trial in obese mice investigated the effects of boysenberry polyphenols. It found that boysenberry polyphenol extract reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased nitric oxide (NO) production, and significantly improved endothelial function, identifying anthocyanins as key active components. The study provides strong mechanistic insights but is limited to an animal model.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7958577/ – This preclinical randomized controlled trial in mice with allergen challenge explored the impact of a boysenberry and apple juice concentrate. The study demonstrated that the concentrate reduced lung immune cell infiltration and promoted an anti-inflammatory macrophage phenotype. A limitation is that it used a combined juice, not boysenberry alone, and was conducted in an animal model.
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jafc.3c01142 – This systematic review updated findings on the effects of berry polyphenols, including boysenberry, on human health. It analyzed data from 35 human participants across various berry studies, concluding that berry polyphenols increased plasma metabolites linked to improved endothelial function. The review highlights the general benefits of berry polyphenols but notes limitations due to mixed berry types and small sample sizes for direct boysenberry data.