A high school student’s science fair project has shed new light on an ancient Native American remedy—chokeberry pudding. Her research suggests that chokeberry seeds may have cancer-fighting properties, marking an exciting step in exploring the health benefits of traditional foods.
A Science Fair Discovery Rooted in Tradition
In 2017, Destany “Sky” Pete, a student from the Shoshone and Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation, became curious about the medicinal properties of chokeberries, a staple in her community’s traditional diet. Inspired by an elder’s remark that people were getting sick more often because they were no longer consuming their ancestral foods, she decided to investigate the fruit’s health benefits.
With the help of her high school teacher, she partnered with Dr. Ken Cornell, a biochemistry professor at Boise State University, to conduct lab research on chokeberries. Her in-vitro study—meaning conducted in a test tube, not on living subjects—tested chokeberry extracts on uterine sarcoma cancer cells.
The Key Ingredient: Chokeberry Seeds
The results were eye-opening:
- The chokeberry extract alone did not significantly impact the cancer cells.
- However, when the whole fruit, including its seeds, was used (as in traditional preparation), it showed cancer-inhibiting properties.
Pete’s research highlighted the importance of traditional preparation methods, which include grinding the seeds along with the fruit. Modern processing methods often remove the seeds, potentially stripping the chokeberry of its full medicinal potential.
What Are Chokeberries?
Also known as Aronia berries, chokeberries are small, tangy berries native to North America. Traditionally used in Native American medicine, they are commonly made into puddings, jams, and teas.
Rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, chokeberries have long been valued for their health benefits, which include cardiovascular support, digestive health, and immune system protection.
Health Benefits of Chokeberries
Chokeberries contain high levels of anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These phytochemicals:
- Reduce oxidative stress, which plays a role in aging and disease.
- Support heart health by improving blood circulation.
- Aid in liver detoxification and digestive function.
- Strengthen the immune system and fight inflammation.
Potential Anti-Cancer Properties
While Pete’s study was an early-stage experiment, other research has also suggested that chokeberries may have anti-cancer properties:
- Colon Cancer: Studies show that anthocyanins in chokeberries may help slow colon cancer cell growth.
- Breast Cancer: Chokeberry extracts have demonstrated protective effects against breast cancer in laboratory studies.
- General Tumor Growth Inhibition: Several studies suggest that chokeberries may induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells.
What’s Next?
While these findings are promising, more research is needed before chokeberries can be considered a viable cancer treatment. Future studies will determine:
- Whether chokeberry extracts work in human trials.
- The best ways to use chokeberries for medicinal benefits.
- How different preparation methods affect their health properties.
Final Thoughts
Pete’s discovery is a powerful reminder that traditional foods and natural medicine still have much to teach us. While chokeberries aren’t a guaranteed cancer cure, they are an undeniably nutritious addition to a healthy diet.
As science continues to explore the benefits of ancient remedies, incorporating nutrient-rich foods like chokeberries may help support overall health and well-being.
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