Strawberries: History and Health Benefits

Facts, Stats and Stories About America’s Favorite Berry

Sep 19, 2008

It's hard to believe the deliciously sweet and tasty red fruit known as the strawberry was once considered poisonous.

The strawberry’s rich history begins over 2,000 years ago when the plant was first cultivated by early Romans. One thousand years later the tasty fruit was served at Medieval state events to symbolize peace, prosperity and perfection. It is thought that around this time is when its name emerged.

Why a Strawberry is Called a Strawberry

It is thought that during Medieval times the strawberry got its name because a strawberry plants looks like it has berries strewn on the ground, and strewberry later became strawberry. Another legend indicates the name origin came from 19th century school children who picked the fruit and began stringing them on grass straws. The kids sold them as “straws of berries.” Another theory is that the name was derived from the 19th century practice of placing straw around the growing plants to protect ripening fruit.

Strawberry: World’s Most Popular Fruit?

While the name’s origin may be unclear, one thing is for sure: the strawberry’s popularity spread across the world in the same fashion as its green leaf runners spread across the ground during cultivation. In the 12th century, the strawberry hit bumpy ground when St Hildegard von Binger pronounced strawberries unfit to eat because they might be contaminated by snakes and toads, since they grow so closely to the ground. However, in the mid 18th century Swedish botanist Charles Linaeus put this superstition to rest by switching to a diet consisting of only strawberries to prove them edible.

Strawberry: Love Potion, Aphrodesiac, Decorative Plant

Once the strawberry was re-proven safe, its popularity surged. Madame Tallien, a great figure of the French Revolution, swore by taking baths full of strawberries to keep her skin radiant. The strawberry is currently the state fruit of Louisiana. Since Roman times, strawberries have been a popular aphrodisiac. In fact, according to ancient lore, if two people split a double strawberry, they will soon become lovers!

The English and French used the beautiful, heart-shaped berries to landscape their gardens. In 14th century France, Charles V ordered 1200 strawberry plants to be grown in the Royal Gardens of the Louvre.

Strawberry: Good for Health

In the early 13th century, the strawberry was used as a remedy for gout, sunburn and indigestion. Though the strawberry may not be a proven treatment for these ailments, it is no wonder people turned to strawberries for medicinal purposes. Just eight medium-sized strawberries provides:

As reported on the Six Strawberries Blog, “Two separate studies presented at the 2003 American Dietetic Association Food and Nutrition Conference and Exhibition reveal...strawberries are naturally high in fiber, vitamin C, folate, potassium, and antioxidants...[strawberries] reduces the risk of certain types of cancer... and boost total body wellness.”

Their versatile nature makes them good for a wide variety of foods, including salads, smoothies, pies, jello, and breakfast treats. Read about the history of cultivation and pesticide use.