The cooler weather has hit us and with it comes cold and flu season. One of my favourite herbs is elderberry especially during the winter months. It has been a stable all year round in the family for a few years now. If any of us even feel the hint of something coming on we take a dose of elderberry.
Now with the cooler months and us all coming out of 2 year hibernation or so it feels. It's a daily dose of 1ml to keep the immune system healthy and strong.
Did you know elderberry is one of the most used herbs in the world and for good reason.
Elderberry has been traditional used for upper Respiratory infections and flu's, studies have been done to back up these traditional uses.
Indigenous people used it to treat fever and rheumatism, while the ancient Egyptians used it to improve their complexions and heal burns.
Historically, the flowers and leaves have been used for pain relief, swelling, inflammation, stimulating the production of urine, and inducing sweating.
These day we used the berries for the properties in supporting the immune system.
Most of the studies conducted have been on the effectiveness of elderberry for reducing the duration of a cold or flu
"These data suggest a significant reduction of cold duration and severity in air travelers."
"Elderberry extract seems to offer an efficient, safe and cost-effective treatment for influenza."
Plus, they have many nutritional benefits. Elderberries are:
High in vitamin C. There are 52 mg of vitamin C per cup of fruit, which accounts for 57% of the daily value
High in dietary fiber. Elderberries contain 10 grams of fiber per cup of fresh berries, about 36% of the daily value
A good source of phenolic acids. These compounds are potent antioxidants that can help reduce damage from oxidative stress in the body.
A good source of flavonols. Elderberry contains the antioxidant flavonols quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin.
Rich in anthocyanins. These compounds give the fruit its characteristic dark black-purple colour and are a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects.
Some studies have been done on the positive effect of elderberry on heart health
Studies have shown elderberry juice may reduce the level of fat in the blood and decrease cholesterol. In addition, a diet high in flavonoids like anthocyanins has been found to reduce the risk of heart disease
There is currently no safety data in pregnancy and breastfeeding, there has also been no reported side effects. Speak to your health professional before taking.
Studies
This is for information purposes only, always speak to your health professional before starting any supplement or herb.
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