Elderberry: Nature’s Healing Gift
Henry David Thoreau once said, “Nature is doing her best each moment to make us well. Why, nature is but another name for health.” As we take a look at another ingredient, we want to regard Elderberry as one of nature’s healing gifts and the best part is that you can use this ingredient as a supplement on a daily basis using our Empty Capsules. To find out more about its wide range of medicinal uses and health benefits, read on.
What is Elderberry
Elderberries are the berries and flowers that grow of the Elder plants and trees. Its botanical name is Sambucus and it is a genus of flowering plants in the Adoxaceae family. Particularly Sambucus Nigra, or black elderberry is the species known and used as a medicinal plant. With European origins and folk use dating back to ancient Greece and Hippocrates, Elderberry has plenty of common names and variations according to country and language that refer to the same healing plant. Some of these include elder, elderberry, elderberry fruit, black elder, European elder, alder or elderfruit, European elderberry, and European black elderberry.
Medicinal uses of Elderberry
Used in traditional medicine for centuries, nutritionists, herbalists and common folks still use elderberry today for its healing properties. Elderberries are an excellent source of vitamins A, B6 and C, as well as antioxidants such as flavonols, phenolic acids, dietary fiber and other nutrients and compounds. These active compounds bring about health benefits such as:
- Fighting common colds and the flu: This is probably the most widespread use of Elderberry. A common ingredient in homemade remedies and syrups, research shows that when taken, elderberry helps to reduce common flu and cold symptoms such as congestion, fever, and headaches.
- COVID-19 side note: Because of these uses, elderberry has been promoted as a way to fight the SARS-CoV-2 infection known as COVID-19 or coronavirus. While also a respiratory virus, this has not been proven and there is no significant data to support this claim.
- Immune System Support: A weakened immune system is prone to a variety of infections, diseases and conditions. Elderberry has been found to boost our immune system by strengthening our body’s response to inflammation, bacteria and other “threats”.
- General health benefits: Because these berry bunches are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients, they are of benefit to overall general health and have anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to better blood pressure levels, heart and skin health, improves circulation, aids in constipation and urination.
Final word
Elderberry is certainly one of nature’s most valuable gifts to our well-being. As part of a supplement regimen it contributes to overall health and immunity. It can be taken in capsule, liquid, or powder form and must be considered with allergies and other interactions. Is elderberry already a part of your homemade supplements? Do you use it during flu season? Let us know in the comments!
This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.
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