Health Guide

Rubus biflorus

Ever heard of **Rubus biflorus**? You likely know it better as the **Cloud Berry**, a rare, amber-colored berry that grows in the cool, boggy climates of the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. Often called the 'Gold of the Marsh,' this superfruit is a powerhouse of antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Unlike common berries, it has a unique tart-sweet flavor and has been used for centuries by indigenous populations to ward off scurvy and boost vitality. It is a true survival food, packed with the energy needed to thrive in harsh environments. Today, it is prized in supplements for its ability to protect the skin and combat oxidative stress.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Antioxidant Capacity (ORAC Value)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Antioxidant Units

Berry Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Skin Barrier Protection: Rich in rare Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
Powerful Antioxidant: High levels of phenolic compounds fight free radicals.
Immune Boost: Historically used to prevent Vitamin C deficiency.
Anti-Aging: Helps maintain skin elasticity and hydration.

Deep Dive

Cloud berries are unique because they contain significant amounts of tocotrienols (a potent form of Vitamin E) and ellagic acid. These compounds work synergistically to protect your cells from environmental damage. The high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids in the seeds helps fortify the skin's lipid barrier, making it excellent for those suffering from dry or irritated skin. Furthermore, the berry's Vitamin C content supports collagen production, essential for keeping skin firm and youthful.

Natural Food Sources

Cloud berries are the primary natural source, but they can be difficult to find fresh outside of Scandinavia and Canada. They are often available as jams or preserves.

Food Source	Amount	% Daily Value (Approx)
Cloudberries (Raw)	100g	180% Vitamin C
Cloudberry Jam	100g	40% Vitamin C
Cloudberry Seed Oil	1 tbsp	High Omega-3

Supplementation

Since fresh cloud berries are seasonal and rare, supplementation is the most practical way to get a therapeutic dose.

Dosage: Look for Cloudberry Extract (standardized for Vitamin C) or Cloudberry Seed Oil (standardized for fatty acids).
Who Should Take It: Individuals looking for natural skin support, those living in high-pollution areas, or people wanting to boost their antioxidant intake naturally.

Top Food Sources

Cloudberry (Raw)

Best source, but hard to find.

Cloudberry Jam

Common in Nordic regions.

Cloudberry Seed Oil

Concentrated Omega-3s.

Dried Cloudberry

Available online.

Candied Cloudberry

High sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions

They grow wild only in specific harsh climates and have a very short harvesting season (1-2 weeks in late summer), making them scarce and labor-intensive to collect.

It is extremely rare. You are more likely to find them as a jam (often imported from Finland) or as an ingredient in high-end skincare or dietary supplements.

Yes. The high Vitamin C content helps with skin healing and inflammation, while the fatty acids help balance the skin's natural oil production.

It has a unique flavor profile—more tart and acidic than a raspberry, with a creamy, slightly sweet aftertaste.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Profile

Cloudberry is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when consumed in food amounts.

Side Effects:

Digestive Upset: Consuming large amounts of raw berries may cause mild diarrhea due to high acidity.
Allergies: As with any berry, there is a potential for allergic reaction, though rare.

Medication Interactions:

Blood Thinners: Cloudberry seed oil contains Vitamin E and Omega-3s, which can have mild blood-thinning effects. Use caution if you are on anticoagulants like Warfarin.

Scientific References

[1]Vilkas, M., & Linder, M. C. (1995). *Antioxidant activity in Rubus chamaemorus*.
[2]Yang, J. H., et al. (2011). *Bioactive compounds in cloudberries*. Journal of Food Science.
[3]Kallio, H., et. al. (2000). *Sea buckthorn and cloudberry lipids*. Food Chemistry.