Elderberry extract is one of my favorite daily ingredients to use and I am thrilled to share my secret to combating any cold or flu symptoms out there!
Now is THE PERFECT time to start using elderberry products, especially in the Midwest where it seems as though EVERYONE is sick with a runny nose, a cough, or the flu!
WHAT IS ELDERBERRY?
Elderberry or “Sambucus,” are berries and flowers that come from the elder plant and are often used as medicine. They are naturally high in vitamins A, B6, C, iron and potassium. The Elderberry fruit also contains flavonoids, which hold antioxidant properties that can aid in preventing cellular damage and other chemical compounds that aid in immune support.
The Elderberry bushes or trees yield berries and flowers that are most commonly used in extracts, syrups, jams, teas, ointments, and wines.
HOW ELDERBERRY CAN BETTER YOUR HEALTH
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Cold and Flu Relief
- First, and foremost elderberries are an immune support booster!
- Elderberry extract (which I use) is an extremely cost effective treatment for cold and flu symptoms. (Personally, I would much rather spend a few extra dollars on an organic elderberry extract to help fight my child’s cold, rather than giving them an over the counter medication that only hides the cold or flu symptoms).
- They have been known to reduce the duration and symptoms of the common cold and flu. (There are several studies that I urge you to research more. The findings are fascinating)!
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Natural Diuretic
- Elder had been proven to help both urination and bowel health.
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Healthy Skin Aid
- Elderberry can be found in several cosmetic products because of its bioflavonoids, antioxidants, and vitamin A contents that help promote skin health.
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Natural Laxative
- It has been found to be a natural laxative that can help treat constipation.
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Sinus Infection Aid
- Elderberries are an antiviral herb that contains both antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.
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Allergies
- The flowers on the elder plant are an effective herbal allergy remedy.
- Elderberries are capable of improving the immune system and calm inflammation, which then provides allergy relief.
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Cancer Preventative
- Elderberry extract is rich in anthocyanins (water solubles) that have been shown to have therapeutic, anti-carcinogenic, and chemopreventive properties that can delay or reverse cancer formation.
WHY/HOW I USE ELDERBERRY DAILY
I started using elderberry about a year ago as another antioxidant supplement in my morning drink (somewhat healthy energy drink). Since then I have been hooked! I have hardly had a cold since, and if I did it was EXTRMEMLY short lived!
I use it in the form of a extract/syrup (1tsp in drink or smoothie) daily. I also take elderberry lozenges if I feel a cold coming on.
If my stepson is sick we give him 1 teaspoon of the “kid friendly” (lower potency) Elderberry extract (liquid) along with LOTS and LOTS of water and probiotics of course!
— All elderberry products can be purchased online! —
It is my goal this Summer to make my own homemade Elderberry syrup!
If you currently make your own Elderberry syrup or other products I would love to hear about them!
– FUN FACT: Elderberry has been used for centuries and is known as a “cure-all!” –
#Elderberries #Antioxidants #Fightcoldsnaturally