Need an Antioxidant Boost – Try Elderberry
Need an Antioxidant Boost – Try Elderberry
Sambucus is a flowering plant with different species, called elderberry or elder. The elderberries and flowers of the elder plant are used as medicine. The berries turn from green to red to black when ripe and are made up of 80% water, 18% carbohydrates, and less than 1% of protein and fat each. They are very high in vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B6, iron, potassium, and antioxidants!
So what health benefits does elderberry offer – A LOT!
You may notice it advertised more, and on the shelf more during cold and flu season, because its main use is to boost the immune system and treat cold and flu symptoms. Recent studies have shown that taking elderberry on a regular basis can significantly reduce the duration and symptoms of colds when traveling – so boost up 5-7 days before travel and help prevent getting sick when on the road.
Elderberry has been used to treat patients with high blood sugar. The elderflower stimulates glucose metabolism and the secretion of insulin and lowers blood sugar levels. It can be used as a natural diuretic and laxative, which is great for anyone who doesn’t want to use pharmaceutical drugs for these types of problems. Elderberry can also supply more than 40% of your daily requirements for fiber, thus increasing your gastrointestinal health.
Due to its high vitamin A content and antioxidant properties it is awesome for skin care too! Elderberry has been shown to fight acne and increase skin elasticity. Having a healthy gut is a key to getting rid of acne and getting clear, healthy skin. For ways on having a healthy gut, refer to an earlier blog post here.
Ways to Incorporate Elderberry into Your Routine
Elderberry syrup is very popular for colds, allergies, or upper respiratory issues. Elderberry comes in a variety of ways – tea, wine, juice, gummies, ointment, spray, pills or capsules, and even powder. You can purchase it at stores, find it locally through a homegrown provider, or get ingredients and make your own products to use.
References
http://www.ethnoherbalist.com/benefits-of-elderberry-black-elderberry-syrup-for-colds/
