Disclaimer: This is not intended for replacement of seeking medical treatment with a licensed physician for any necessary treatment. Always seek professional consultation.
God has created wonderful natural remedies, and attests to His perfection. All man-made medicines can only come from Him.
Discuss article on our forum here
Elderberry, the Sambucus plant, is renowned for its potential health benefits, primarily due to its rich antioxidant and vitamin content. It’s most commonly praised for boosting the immune system, with studies suggesting it may reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu by inhibiting viral replication.
The fruit’s high levels of anthocyanins—powerful antioxidants—may also support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving circulation. Additionally, elderberry contains vitamin C and dietary fiber, aiding in overall wellness and digestion.
Sambucas plants are called elderberry or elder. Both, berries and flowers, are used for medicinal purposes. The white flowers change from green to red to black once ripe.
It is common in woodlands and hedgerows. You can often see it out in the countryside along the edges of the roads. Those big white flower heads in spring, are often from an elderberry shrub. It’s native to most of the United States.
Provides Cold and Flu Relief
Studies have shown that elderberry may reduce the duration and severity of symptoms related to colds and influenza.
Research suggests that when elderberry is used within the first 48 hours of the onset of signs of flu, it can shorten the duration of flu symptoms by an average of four days.
I can attest to this. Years ago, I had our pediatrician ask me what I was giving my children after they all tested positive for a bad flu bug. He first pointed out that all the other children he had been seeing were lethargic and often crying or fussy in the younger aged children. Then he wanted to know why mine didn’t seem to feel so bad. I had been giving them homemade elderberry syrup.
I used the above recipe, often tossing in a quarter cup of dried echinacea flower and the same measure of dried olive leaves. I would give my children about two tablespoons every hour until their symptoms eased, often within hours. (Some mix the syrup in a cup of water.) I would gradually decrease the timing, according to their symptoms. I would continue for a few days after all symptoms were gone or symptoms would sometimes return. (Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this post is for information and experience sharing.)
The results I’ve had with this herb make it my personal favorite!
-It should be stored in the refrigerator.
-The syrup and berries are far more potent than store-bought gummies so please consider that when dosing.
-Be sure to always cook elderberry before consuming or it can cause gastro issues.
Lowers Blood Sugar
Tradition teaches that elderberry has been used to treat diabetes. The extracts from the elder flower stimulates glucose metabolism and the secretion of insulin, according to research.
Laboratory studies on animals with type 2 found that extracts of the berry lowered insulin resistance.
There are many other uses for elderberry in what is considered by some as folk medicine. Numerous studies on its various properties can be found online as well.
It’s often promoted for heart health benefits due to its richness in antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to help lower inflammation and blood pressure. It may help lower uric acid in the blood.
The antioxidant and flavonoid, quercetin, is known to support lung function, particularly those with asthma and COPD.
The iron and potassium can help fight anemia, lower blood pressure, and may help reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Elderberry has made its way into some beauty products. The antioxidants, bioflavonoids, and vitamin A could help restore skin health.
The fiber from elderberries can prevent constipation, improve bowel function, and possibly help protect against colorectal cancer.
Dr. Josh Axe has this to say about its possible cancer-fighting effects: Edible berry extracts like elderberry extract are rich in anthocyanins and have been shown to have a broad spectrum of therapeutic, pharmacologic and anti-carcinogenic properties. In vitro studies specifically indicate that the elderberry has some chemopreventive properties, which can help inhibit, delay, or reverse cancer formation.
There are numerous ways to add it to your diet. The berries can be used for jams, pies, baked goods, and more. (Again, you must cook elderberries to avoid a stomach issue.)
Elderberry is usually considered safe. We encourage you to do your own research. We also encourage you to consult your own physician especially if you are on any form of medication, particularly immune therapies.
In the sources below, I will link to several sites that have more information in case you would like to further study elderberries.
Ezekiel 47:12 …and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.
(Sources: Grok, Dr. Josh Axe, Health, Forbes, Eating Well, Medical News Today, Very Well, Web MD)
Discuss article on our forum here
