Is Blackberry Good for Diarrhea? Exploring the Traditional Remedy

January 12, 2026 •

3 min read

Historically, various parts of the blackberry plant have been used in traditional medicine to address digestive issues, including diarrhea. The primary reason behind this traditional use is the presence of tannins, which are compounds known for their astringent properties.

Quick Summary

Blackberry leaves and roots contain tannins that may help treat diarrhea by tightening intestinal tissues and reducing inflammation, a practice with a long history in herbal medicine. While traditional use suggests effectiveness, robust clinical human trials are limited, and excessive consumption of the fruit's high fiber content could worsen symptoms.

Key Points

Leaf vs. Fruit: For treating diarrhea, the leaves and roots of the blackberry plant are traditionally used, not the fruit.
Tannins are Key: The astringent properties that aid in soothing diarrhea come from the high tannin content in blackberry leaves.
Limited Clinical Evidence: While historically used, there is insufficient high-quality human trial evidence to confirm blackberry's efficacy for diarrhea.
Excessive Fruit Can Harm: Overeating the high-fiber blackberry fruit can potentially worsen diarrhea for some individuals.
Herbal Tea is the Method: The traditional way to use blackberry for diarrhea is by brewing the dried leaves into a tea to extract the tannins.
Consult a Professional: Always seek medical advice for persistent diarrhea or if you have chronic gastrointestinal conditions.

Traditional Wisdom on Blackberry and Diarrhea

For centuries, various cultures have turned to the blackberry plant, specifically its leaves and roots, as a natural remedy for digestive ailments like diarrhea. The astringent properties of these plant parts are attributed to their high concentration of tannins. These tannins help to tighten and tone the mucous membranes in the intestinal tract, which can reduce fluid secretion and inflammation. This soothing effect on the gut can theoretically help minimize the uncomfortable symptoms associated with loose stools. Ancient Greeks, Romans, and even Native American tribes used blackberry leaf preparations for various gastrointestinal complaints, demonstrating its long-standing reputation in traditional medicine. Preparations often involved brewing the dried leaves into a potent tea or decoction.

The Scientific View: Tannins, Astringency, and Limitations

While the traditional use of blackberry for diarrhea is well-documented, scientific evidence to support its widespread use is still limited. Some preliminary animal studies and laboratory research have suggested that the astringent tannins in blackberry leaves can have anti-diarrheal effects by decreasing intestinal motility and fluid loss. Germany's Commission E, a scientific advisory panel on herbal medicine, has medically recognized the use of blackberry leaves for treating non-specific diarrhea. However, conclusive, high-quality human clinical trials confirming its effectiveness are largely absent. This doesn't necessarily disprove the traditional remedy but highlights the need for more rigorous scientific investigation.

Potential Issues with the Fruit Itself

Interestingly, while the leaves and roots are associated with relief, consuming too much of the blackberry fruit itself might have the opposite effect for some individuals. A one-cup serving of fresh blackberries contains a significant amount of dietary fiber—around 8 grams. For a person already experiencing diarrhea, excessive fiber intake can sometimes exacerbate symptoms, such as bloating and loose stools. It is therefore crucial to distinguish between the leaves (used for their astringent tannins) and the fruit (rich in fiber) when considering a remedy for diarrhea. Moderation is key, especially when dealing with a sensitive digestive system.

Comparison: Blackberry Leaves vs. Fruit for Diarrhea


Feature	Blackberry Leaves (for Tea)	Blackberry Fruit (Eaten Raw)
Primary Active Component	Tannins (astringent properties)	Dietary Fiber (bulking agent)
Effect on Diarrhea	Traditionally used to help soothe and reduce diarrhea	Excessive intake may worsen diarrhea for some
Preparation Method	Brewed into a tea from dried leaves	Eaten fresh, frozen, or in foods
Recommended Use	Primarily for mild, acute diarrhea	Generally for nutritional and gut health benefits
Supporting Evidence	Traditional use and some animal/lab studies	High fiber content is well-studied for general digestion

How to Prepare Blackberry Leaf Tea

If you choose to try the traditional remedy, proper preparation of blackberry leaf tea is essential. The process typically involves:

Collecting young, tender blackberry leaves, ideally in spring or early summer.
Thoroughly washing and drying the leaves.
Pouring hot water over 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves.
Allowing the mixture to steep for about 10 minutes.
Straining the leaves before drinking.

This method ensures that you primarily extract the beneficial tannins without the high fiber load of the fruit. Drinking several cups a day, in moderation, is a traditional recommendation.

The Importance of Consultation and Moderation

While blackberry leaf tea has been used for centuries, it is not a cure-all and is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with chronic gastrointestinal diseases like Crohn's should avoid such remedies. It is also essential to consult a healthcare professional, especially if diarrhea persists for more than a few days, as it can lead to serious dehydration. For those on blood-thinning medication like Warfarin, the Vitamin K content in blackberries may affect clotting, so medical advice is necessary. Always approach herbal remedies with caution and informed judgment.

Conclusion: A Traditional Approach Worth Understanding

In summary, the question of whether blackberry is good for diarrhea depends on which part of the plant is used and in what quantity. Traditional herbal medicine, supported by some limited scientific rationale, points to the astringent tannins found in blackberry leaves and roots as a potential remedy for mild diarrhea. These tannins can help reduce fluid loss and intestinal inflammation. However, consuming excessive amounts of the high-fiber blackberry fruit itself could potentially worsen symptoms for some. While not a replacement for medical care, understanding this distinction allows individuals to make a more informed choice about using this traditional remedy. Always prioritize moderation and seek professional medical advice for persistent or severe symptoms.

Rubus fruticosus (blackberry) use as an herbal medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

Eating too many fresh blackberries can be bad for diarrhea because their high fiber content can potentially loosen stools and worsen symptoms. It's the leaves and roots, not the fruit, that are traditionally used as a remedy.

Blackberry leaves contain high levels of tannins, which have astringent properties. These tannins can help to tighten and tone the mucous membranes in the gut, reducing inflammation and fluid loss associated with diarrhea.

The best traditional method is to make a tea from dried blackberry leaves. This process extracts the beneficial tannins while avoiding the high fiber of the fruit. Consult a doctor before trying any herbal remedy.

For most people, the fruit is safe in moderation. However, excessive consumption can cause digestive issues. Always talk to a healthcare provider if you have underlying conditions or are taking medication, especially blood thinners, as blackberry contains Vitamin K.

While some folk remedies mention blackberry for children's diarrhea, it is crucial to consult a doctor before giving any herbal remedy to a child. Diarrhea can cause rapid dehydration, which is especially dangerous for children.

Astringents cause the tightening of tissues. In the case of diarrhea, the tannins in blackberry leaves can tighten the mucous membranes of the intestinal tract, helping to reduce inflammation and excessive fluid secretion.

Blackberry leaves and roots contain high levels of tannins, making them astringent and soothing for diarrhea. The fruit contains high fiber, which is generally good for digestion but can worsen existing diarrhea if consumed in large amounts.