Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) – A Review on the Characteristic Components and Potential Health Effects

Abstract

The intention of this review is to contribute to a better understanding of the potentials of the nutritional contribution of Aronia berries (Aronia melanocarpa). The paper gives a short background to their botanical classification and cultivation practice, going in detail to describe the chemical composition of the berries. The emphasis is laid thereby upon the phenolic constituents. The paper finally gives a short resume of their beneficial effects in biological systems in vitro, in animals, and in humans, thus underlining their medicinal potential.

Key words

Aronia melanocarpa - chokeberry - Rosaceae - anthocyanins - procyanidins - colon cancer - diabetes - cardiovascular disease

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