What is myrtle berry?

Myrtle berry, also known as myrtle fruit or myrtle berry vinegar, is the fruit of the Myrtus communis plant, which is a small evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. The fruit is small and round, about the size of a blueberry, and is usually purple-black in color when ripe.

Myrtle berries have a sweet-tart flavor and are commonly used for making jams, jellies, cordials, and liqueurs. They are also used to flavor Mediterranean dishes such as stews, marinades, and sauces. Myrtle berry vinegar is a traditional condiment made by steeping the berries in vinegar for several weeks and then straining out the seeds and pulp.

In addition to their culinary uses, myrtle berries have also been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory properties. They are rich in antioxidants and essential oils that are believed to help boost the immune system and promote good health. Myrtle leaves and berries are also used in aromatherapy and can help to alleviate stress, anxiety, and respiratory problems when used in essential oil form.