Benefits of Elderberry

Black elderberries (Sambucus nigra) have been shown to help prevent colds, flu, and other viruses and speed recovery if you’re already sick.

Elderberries naturally contain high amounts of absorbable vitamins A, B, and especially C, and stimulate immune function. Israeli researchers found that the complex sugars in elderberries support the immune system in fighting colds, flu, and viruses.

Dr. Madeleine Mumcuoglu, of Hadassah-Hebrew University in Israel found that elderberry disarms the enzyme viruses used to penetrate healthy cells in the lining of the nose and throat. Taking elderberries can help prevent infections. Taken after an infection sets in, it prevents spread of the virus through the respiratory tract. In a clinical trial, 20% of study subjects reported significant improvement within 24 hours, 70% by 48 hours, and 90% claimed complete cure in three days. In contrast, subjects receiving the placebo required 6 days to recover.

Elderberry Syrup- a Delicious Remedy

Elderberry syrup provides the concentrated immune-supporting benefits of black elderberries in a great-tasting way. This homemade recipe combines elderberry with supportive herbs cinnamon and ginger, plus raw honey for an extra immune boost.

Ingredients

1 gallon water

2 cups black elderberries (dried, or 1 1/3 cups fresh or frozen)

4 TBSP ginger (grated)

5 cinnamon sticks cinnamon

2 cups raw honey OR maple syrup/coconut sugar/agave syrup (DO NOT give honey to children under 12 months of age)

Instructions

1. Pour the water into a medium saucepan and add the elderberries, ginger, and cinnamon.

2. Bring to a boil and then cover and reduce to a simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until the liquid has reduced by almost half.

3. Remove from heat and let cool until it is cool enough to be handled.

4. Pour through a strainer into a glass jar or bowl.

5. Discard the elderberries and let the liquid cool to lukewarm.

6. When it is no longer hot, add the honey and stir well.

7. When the honey is well mixed into the elderberry mixture, pour the syrup into a mason jar or glass bottle.

Store in the fridge for up to 6 months if using honey. If using a different natural sweetener, store in fridge for up to 3 weeks. Take daily to boost immunity.

Standard dose is ½ - 1 teaspoon for kids and ½ - 1 tablespoon for adults. If actively sick or your immune system is feeling low, take the normal dose every 2-3 hours instead of once a day until symptoms disappear.