What is Elderberry?
Elderberry is a homeopathic remedy used for colds and flu.
Elderberry is a natural plant that has been used for centuries to fight the symptoms of colds and flu. It’s an all-natural option that can be taken and has very few side effects. One study found that Elderberry could reduce the length and severity of cold symptoms by over half.
Elderberry syrup has been used as a natural remedy for fever, asthma and allergies. As the world has become more polluted, elderberries and their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have become even more beneficial in helping your immune system fight off infections.
I started taking elderberry at the height of the cold and flu season. After tons of research on how to prepare my immune system, elderberry appeared quite frequently.
If you aren’t familiar with Elderberries here are a few of their benefits.
- Elderberry extract has been shown to be more effective than vitamin C or zinc in treating colds and flu. This is because the supplement contains a variety of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Elderberry extract can even reduce illness duration by up to 4 days and can be taken in liquid, capsule or tablet form. It is easy to find in many pharmacies and grocery.
- Elderberries have a natural antiviral compound called “elderflower”. It has been shown to help with respiratory infections, improve immunity, and strengthen the immune system.
- Elderberries contain flavonoids and antioxidants which destroy free radicals in the body which are known to damage DNA cells. Free radicals are known to damage DNA cells, and many diseases like cancer are caused by this type of cell damage.
- Elderberries also contain vitamin C which provide protection to cells in the body by boosting immunity.
People who are interested in boosting their immune system can take advantage of the health benefits of elderberries.
Elderberry is a powerful plant that provides tons of health benefits.
Here are 8 reasons you should start taking advantage of the benefits of elderberries
High in nutrients
Elderberries are high in vitamins and minerals and can provide a low-calorific intake. They provide a good sources of dietary fiber, antioxidants and are rich in vitamin C, containing between 6 to 35g per 100g of fruit.
Elderberries may be tiny, but they sure pack a healthy punch!
Apart from ample amounts of vitamin A, vitamin B6 and vitamin C, elderberries contain minerals like iron, phosphorus, potassium and calcium, and a variety of other beneficial compounds.
Fights colds and flu
Black elderberry extracts have been shown to reduce the severity and duration of the flu, decrease pain and sinus inflammation, and reduce symptoms of upper respiratory infections.
Boost vision health
Given the high vitamin A content in elderberries and the importance of vitamin A with regards to vision health, one may speculate about the importance of elderberry in keeping the eyes healthy.
Allergy relief
The immune boosting and anti-inflammatory properties of this superfood make it a great natural remedy for allergy symptoms. The anit-catarrhals found in this berry make it an effective medicine for clearing up runny noses, congestion, sneezing and itchy watery eyes.
Gut health
In various studies, elderberry has been seen as a natural way to support the immune system. Elderberries contain polyphenols, an antioxidant found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, known for their ability to combat cell damage. It is thought that the health benefits one would get from combining antioxidant-rich foods with a probiotic would be greater than what could be achieved using each individually.
Build strong healthy bones
Minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium are important in boosting bone health, and elderberry is a decent source of all of them. Every little bit helps, right?
Heart health
Limited research has found that elderberry may be beneficial for the heart. Black elderberry contains anthocyanin, which may help reduce cholesterol levels and improve HDL function. It also contains polyphenols which are beneficial for those with high blood pressure.
I personally find buying elderberry syrup can get expensive, especially for a family of four. So when I learned how easy it was to make, I had to jump on it.
Check out this easy Elderberry Syrup Recipe
Homemade Elderberry Syrup
This elderberry syrup will help keep you and and your family healthy year round
Homemade Elderberry Syrup Recipe:
Sweet and tart easy elderberry syrup
Ingredients:
1 cup dried elderberries 4 cups water
1/2 fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh ginger or 1 teaspoon dried ginger (added to boil)
1/2 – 1 cup raw honey- based on your taste buds