Elderberries

Elderberries

Latin name: Sambucus nigra 

Health Benefits of Elderberries

Elderberries are known for their immune enhancing properties and is the "go to" herb for cold and flu.  Elderberry syrup is the most popular cold remedy in Europe.  Health benefits include: 

• They are packed with antioxidants, which help to fight free radicals in the body and keep you healthy overall.
• Known for their anti-viral properties, they help to prevent colds and the flu.  They also help to inhibit the enzyme flu viruses which penetrate the cell membranes and also prevent the virus from invading respiratory tract cells. When taken early enough, you can prevent a small cold from turning into the full blown flu.
• Helps to soothe the intestines, and can be helpful for all inflammatory bowel diseases.  They have a very gentle laxative action, which may explain their decongestant properties as well. They also have a mild tonic action to help arrest diarrhea.
• They can be effective in other ailments such as allergies, hay fever, emphysema, pleurisy, rheumatism, sore throat, and sinusitis.
• Helps reduce fever by inducing sweating. 

Nutritional Benefits of Elderberries 

• Have more antioxidant properties than Vitamins A or C. 

How to Use Elderberries

• Although not as moist or sweet as raisins, you can add them to many food recipes such as hot cereals, vegetable dishes, stir fry, waffles, pancakes, and granola.
• Makes an effective syrup, and is great in tea and elderberry tincture combinations. 

Cautions and Side Effects of Elderberries

• Raw elderberries may cause stomach upset, so you want to eat them in cooked foods only. 

Fun Facts About Elderberries

• They make an excellent jam and also a great tasting wine.