Scientists confirmed that elderberry could relieve colds, the flu, sinus issues, nerve pain, inflammation, chronic fatigue, allergies, constipation, and even cancer.
Black elderberry is native to Europe, central and western Asia, and northern Africa, with subspecies all over North America. Its berries and flowers are powerful natural medicines.
The plant has deciduous leaves, white flowers (elderflowers), and berries that turn from green to red to black as they ripen.
For centuries, this plant has been used as a natural medicinal remedy in European folk medicine and by indigenous tribes to boost the immune system or as a general health tonic.
This powerful plant effectively fights inflammation in the body, relieves nerve pain, treats the flu and colds, cures sinus issues, soothes allergies, and treats constipation.
According to Christine Ruggeri, CHHC:
"Elderberry has a long, rich history of use for medicinal benefits by numerous cultures. It fights infections, including influenza, herpes, viral infections, and bacterial infections. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine concluded that Elderberry can be used as a safe treatment for influenza A and B."
"This is due to its efficacy on all strains of influenza virus that were tested, the clinical results, its low cost, and the absence of side effects. Most every part of the Elderberry can be used — the flowers, bark, roots, and leaves are often used for their amazing health benefits."
Why You Need to Eat Elderberries More Often
1. Allergies
Elderberry extract brings relief from allergic reactions naturally.
2. Balance the Blood Sugar Levels
Both Elderberry flowers and berries balance the glucose levels and keep diabetes under control.
According to a study, the plant's extract improved transportation of glucose and oxidation without any added insulin, which is beneficial in maintaining glucose levels and averting diabetes.
3. Prevents Cancer
Extracts from berries are rich in antioxidants and anthocyanin. They are known to possess strong therapeutic, anti-carcinogenic, and pharmacologic characteristics.
Studies indicate that elderberry extract can prevent the creation of cancerous cells.
4. Brings Relief from Colds and Flu
When you eat elderberries regularly, you'll significantly strengthen your immunity and fight off infections. Elderberry supplementation also helps to speed up the recovery and minimizes the symptoms of flu to 4 days.
How to Prepare Elderberry Extract at Home
You'll Need:
2 cups organic dried elderberries
1 tablespoon fresh or dried organic ginger root
1 teaspoon organic cinnamon powder or 1 cinnamon stick
3.5 cups cold water
1 cup raw honey
Instructions:
Boil the water. Add the elderberry, ginger, and cinnamon and leave them to cook until the liquid is divided.
Turn off the heat and mash the contents, pour it into the cheesecloth, and strain the extract into a bowl.
Add the honey and mix well
Pour the contents into a glass bottle.
Keep it in a cool and dark area.
You can also drink elderberry tea by adding a tablespoon of dried berries or flowers to eight ounces of water.
Note, the ripe, cooked berries of most elderberry species are edible. However, don't consume them raw, as they contain a cyanide-inducing chemical, which can be toxic.