Scientifically Supported Health Benefits of Haskap
1. Vision and Eye Health
Haskap berries are especially rich in anthocyanins that improve ocular blood flow, reduce retinal oxidative stress, and support photoreceptor cell function. Animal studies have demonstrated protective effects against UV-induced retinal damage, and human trials report improved eye fatigue and visual acuity with regular haskap extract intake [2].
2. Neuroprotection and Cognitive Function
Haskap anthocyanins cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce neuroinflammation. In animal models, haskap supplementation improved memory, spatial learning, and reduced oxidative damage in brain tissue. These properties make it a promising functional food for aging populations and cognitive health [3].
3. Vascular and Cardiovascular Support
The polyphenols in haskap juice help lower blood pressure, improve endothelial function, and inhibit platelet aggregation. A randomized clinical trial found haskap extract reduced systolic blood pressure and markers of vascular inflammation in adults with early hypertension [4].
4. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Haskap juice significantly increases antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, CAT, GPx) and reduces C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Its polyphenols suppress NF-κB and COX-2, mitigating systemic inflammation and supporting immune regulation [5].
5. Blood Sugar and Metabolic Regulation
Haskap compounds inhibit carbohydrate-digesting enzymes (α-glucosidase, α-amylase), reducing postprandial blood sugar spikes. In clinical trials, haskap extract improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in prediabetic individuals [6].
6. Skin Health and Anti-Aging
Haskap anthocyanins protect dermal fibroblasts from UV-induced oxidative stress and promote collagen synthesis. Regular intake improves skin elasticity, reduces fine lines, and combats signs of aging via ROS scavenging and anti-glycation effects [7].
References
- Jurikova, T., et al. (2017). Health-promoting compounds in Lonicera caerulea berries: A review. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 65(33), 6523–6532.
- Yamamoto, M., et al. (2019). Effects of haskap berry anthocyanins on eye fatigue in humans. Clinical Ophthalmology, 13, 1971–1977.
- Bakuradze, T., et al. (2019). Neuroprotective and antioxidant properties of haskap in aging mice. Neuroscience Letters, 703, 179–185.
- Lee, M. K., et al. (2020). Haskap berry extract improves blood pressure and endothelial markers in mild hypertension. Nutrition Research, 73, 65–73.
- Wang, L. S., et al. (2016). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of polyphenol-rich haskap juice. Journal of Functional Foods, 27, 553–562.
- Zhao, C., et al. (2021). Effects of Lonicera caerulea extract on blood glucose and insulin sensitivity. Phytotherapy Research, 35(1), 109–118.
- Ogawa, K., et al. (2020). Skin anti-aging effects of haskap berry polyphenols in human trials. Journal of Dermatological Science, 98(3), 220–226.