Black currant is a small shrub belonging to the family of Grossulariaceae, in the genus; Ribes.
Black currant gets its name from its dark color.
Black currants carry significantly high amounts of phenolic flavonoid phytochemicals called anthocyanins.
Black currants have anti-oxidant value.
They are an excellent sources of antioxidant vitamin, vitamin-C. 100 g of fresh currants provide more than 300% of daily-recommended intake values of vitamin C.
Black currants carry small but significant amount of vitamin A, and flavonoid anti-oxidants such as beta-carotene, zea-xanthin and cryptoxanthin levels.
Fresh black currants are also rich in many essential vitamins such as pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B-6) and thiamin (vitamin B-1).
They also carry good amounts of mineral iron. 100 g currant berries provide about 20% of daily recommended levels.