Technological and physicochemical parameters of “Rovada” Ribes rubrum L. berries

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24959/nphj.26.197

Keywords:

Ribes rubrum L.; red currant; “Rovada” cultivar; technological parameters of the raw material; biologically active substances; medicinal plant raw material; water-soluble polysaccharides; pectic substances; natural sorbents; berries.

Abstract

The medicinal plant raw material (MPRM) of red currant (Ribes rubrum L.) belonging to the gooseberry family (Grossulariaceae) is a valuable source of biologically active substances (BAS). The raw material of Ribes rubrum L. has a rich chemical composition and exhibits diuretic, anti-inflammatory, choleretic, and vitaminizing properties. It is relevant to conduct a pharmacognostic study of Ribes rubrum L. as a promising raw material for official medicine.

Aim. To perform a comprehensive pharmacognostic analysis of the MPRM of Ribes rubrum L., in particular, determine technological and physicochemical properties, as well as assess the content of polysaccharides and pectic substances in the samples selected.

Materials and methods. Berries and leaves of “Rovada” Ribes rubrum L. were selected for the study. To evaluate the technological parameters of the raw material, the mass of fresh and dried berries, the juice volume obtained by pressing, as well as fresh and dried pomace were determined using the gravimetric method. The content of free organic acids was determined according to the pharmacopoeial method. The content of water-soluble polysaccharides (WSPS) and pectic substances (PS) in Ribes rubrum L. berries was assessed gravimetrically.

Results. “Rovada” red currant is one of the most widespread and economically valuable varieties. During the study, the content of free organic acids in the samples of the MPRM was quantitatively determined. It was found that the average berry yield per bush of “Rovada” red currant amounted to 3.96 kg. The main technological parameters of the berries were evaluated, and the content of pectic substances was determined, indicating the feasibility of using red currant berries as a promising raw material for obtaining natural sorbents and a source of soluble dietary fiber.

Conclusions. The results obtained indicate that “Rovada” red currant berries are a promising raw material for the production of natural sorbents. Due to the high content of BAS and pectic substances, this raw material has a significant potential for use in the production of functional food products, dietary supplements, and pharmaceuticals aimed at improving digestion, eliminating toxic substances, and overall strengthening of the body.

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2026-03-31

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Vol. 111 No. 1 (2026): News of Pharmacy

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