17 Dec 2009 --- An exotic berry which has been prescribed as a cure in Chinese medicine since 600AD has landed in the UK for the first time as a fruit juice. Organic Yang-Mei Juice from Yumberry is the first fruit juice in the UK to be made exclusively from the yang-mei berry.

The fruit has grown in China for over 5,000 years and its use in Chinese medicine was first documented as far back as the Tang Dynasty in 600 AD. Since that time it has been used as a cure for a huge variety of common complaints including: Headaches, Stomach complaints, Urinary infections, Heat stroke and ‘Muddle-head’ condition.

The organic juice, which is made from 100% juice, has been accredited by the Soil Association and contains a huge range of micro-nutrients including anthocyanins. These plant extracts are thought to combat cancer-causing free radicals, as well as boost the immune system, and have the potential to guard against some neurological diseases, diabetes and bacterial infections.

Yang-mei fruit contains a number of vitamins.  More than this, scientific evidence shows the presence in yang-mei fruit of ellagic acid, quercetin and myricetin.  In separate research ellagic acid has suggested benefits such as reduction of blood pressure and reduction of carotid artery wall thickness and quercetin shows anti-inflammatory activity.

As well as its high micro-nutrient content, the juice has a delicious flavour reminiscent of other berries such as strawberry, cherry and raspberry, with a refreshingly dry burst of cranberry.

Yang-Mei Juice is 100% juice from the yang-mei berry, unlike some other healthy drinks, such as cranberry, which have a much lower proportion of the named juice. Just half a bottle of Yang-Mei Juice provides one portion of your recommended 5-a-day.

Yumberry organic Yang-Mei Juice (RRP £2.50) is available nationwide from all good health food shops including Planet Organic, Rosemary Health Food Shops and Food for Thought.

Organic Yang-Mei juice from Yumberry is available from health-food shops nationwide.