A bay of tradition, between old-fashioned harvests and modern creativity

Once very common in local recipes, rowan berries were harvested at high altitudes or at the edge of woods, then incorporated into infusions, syrups, decoctions or fermented preparations (vinegars, fruit wines, etc.). Its bitter and tangy taste, combined with a slight astringency, makes it an interesting ingredient for invigorating drinks or rustic food uses. Today, it is finding its place in artisanal productions and natural recipes inspired by local traditions, sometimes reinterpreted in contemporary approaches.

Description

Small, spherical, dried berries, ranging from reddish-brown to dark brown in color depending on the drying stage. The texture is firm and slightly sticky. The berries have a characteristic tangy, bitter aroma. The berries are harvested when fully ripe and then air-dried or dried at low temperatures to preserve their integrity and aromatic potential.

Nomenclature

• Common name: Rowan, wild rowan
• Latin name: Sorbus aucuparia
• Family: Rosaceae
• Part used: Berry (fruit)
• Form: Loose – whole dried berry
• Origin: Europe, mountainous or wooded areas
• English name: Rowan berry dried
• German name: Vogelbeer getrocknet
• Name in Spanish: Bayas de serbal
• Name in Italian: Bacche di sorbo
• Name in Arabic: توت الزعرور الأوروبي المجفف

Traditional uses

• Infusion: 1 teaspoon of berries for a cup – let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes in hot water.
• Decoction: Boil 10 to 15 g of berries per liter of water for 10 minutes – filter before consumption.
• Culinary preparation: can be incorporated into rustic compotes, associated jams, syrups or flavored vinegars.

Precautions for use

• Do not consume raw in large quantities: fresh berries may contain indigestible compounds eliminated during cooking or drying.
• Not recommended for young children without professional advice.
• Store in an airtight container away from heat and humidity.

History and tradition

The rowan tree is an emblematic tree of European mid-mountain landscapes. Renowned in rural traditions as a nourishing, protective tree, it was commonly planted near farms. Its dried berries were used in herbal teas, added to seasonal potions, or simple recipes designed to support the body as winter approached. They were also used to make rustic liqueurs or invigorating decoctions with a very typical tangy taste.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: food grade kraft bag or airtight opaque jar.
• Shelf life: 18 to 24 months.
• TARIC customs code: 0813.40.95.00

Sources and references

• Internal References Apophycaire
• Works on plants of cold and temperate regions
• Ethnobotanical data on European wild fruits

Note to project creators and formulators:

Please note that we do not provide any technical documentation (datasheet, certificate, analysis, etc.) for quantities less than 1 kg. Documentation is reserved exclusively for registered professionals (SIRET number or equivalent required) and for clearly identified projects. Thank you for your understanding.

🔎 Information

The products on aromacentre.fr are not medicines. They are natural, plant-based treatments. All usage advice on our site is for informational purposes only. Any additional requests should be made to a qualified healthcare professional. In accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods, we are unable to publish this information on the site. Taking this product does not exempt you from consulting a doctor or prescribing it. Ask your doctor or healthcare practitioner for advice. Be sure to read the precautions for use before using any medicinal plants. The use of herbal preparations is not recommended without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. The substances they contain may interact with medications prescribed by the patient, reducing their therapeutic effectiveness or causing toxicity. They can also worsen the weakening of the body's vital functions, thus exposing the patient to increased morbidity and life-threatening risks.

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