Raspberries

Red raspberries grow on a bushes that are native to Turkey, and they were gathered by the people inhabiting Troy from vines growing at the foothills of Mt. Ida around the time of Christ. Therefore, the Romans are thought to have spread cultivation throughout Europe. In Medieval Europe, wild berries were considered both medicinal and utilitarian. Their juices were used in paintings and illuminated manuscripts.

Raspberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, folate, iron, potassium, antioxidants and disease-fighting ellagic acid. Ellagitannins, a family of compounds almost exclusive to the raspberry, are reported to have anti-cancer activity and contribute to the raspberry's antioxidant power. They are also a great source of fiber, which has been found to lower cholesterol levels.