Common Names - Blackthorn, Sloe
Habitat - Woodlands, Hedgerows, Field Edges
Distribution - Native To Europe & Western Asia
Edible Parts - Sloes & Flower Blossoms (In Moderation)

Identification
The blackthorn grows up to around seven metres in height, its bark is dark & can appear almost pitch black. In spring the blackthorn bursts into life with its bright flower blossoms. These flower blossoms are a bright shade of white with five petals & little white/yellow anthers. The leaves are small, oval shaped with a toothed edge. The fruit of the blackthorn tree are called Sloe berries,
they are a dark black/blue colour & are incredibly bitter when eaten raw

Harvest Time
Blossoms In Spring, Sloe Berries In Autumn

Traditional Uses Of Blackthorn In Herbalism
The sloe berries are powerfully astringent & said to stimulate our body's metabolism, cleanse the blood, treat urinary tract disorders, inflammation & to help with digestion issues such as diarrhoea. Because of the sloe berries strong astringency properties a syrup has long been made from the fruit to help treat coughs & colds. Sloes have also been made into tonic drinks & used as a gargle to help sore throats, mouths & gums as well as to help fasten loose teeth. The flower blossoms of the blackthorn tree in spring have been used in an infusion said to be purgative, diuretic, detoxifying, laxative
& help in the treatment of rashes.

Scientific Studies On Blackthorn Indicate It May

- Be Anti-Inflammatory & Wound Healing

-Be Antimicrobial

- Have Anticancer Activity