In the realm of natural health remedies, Elderberry has been gaining significant recognition lately. Its use as a multipurpose super-fruit has stood the test of time, with references dating back to the days of ancient Egyptians and Greeks. However, today we find ourselves reaching out to Elderberry specifically for its remarkable benefits when it comes to battling the cold and flu. So if you haven’t already included this powerful berry in your health regimen, it's about time you did.
The Power of Elderberry
Elderberries are the dark purple fruit of the elder tree that you can find across North America and Europe. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins like A, B, and C, flavonoids, and potent anthocyanins - which give Elderberry its deep color. All these nutrients are critical to our body’s health and wellness.
From preventing chronic diseases to boosting the immune system, the benefits of Elderberry supplements are extensive. However, its role as a preventative measure and treatment for cold and flu stands unmatched. Furthermore, research backs these benefits too! A study published in the Journal of Nutrition showed that elderberry promotes cytokine production in the body, which are proteins that play a pivotal role in stimulating the body’s immune response.
Elderberry for Cold and Flu: A Natural Fighter
When it comes to using elderberry for cold and flu, the benefits are twofold: prevention and recovery. Consuming elderberry supplements not only boosts your immune system optimally to defend against viral infections, but it also aids in a quicker recovery if you do fall sick.
Research shows that Elderberry extract has shown high efficacy in treating influenza. A study in Norway demonstrated that patients who took an elderberry syrup showed significant improvement in their influenza symptoms four days earlier than those who took a placebo. It slashed the recovery time by half from eight days to just four. This is attributed to the elderberry’s antiviral properties and its ability to enhance immune cell activity. Moreover, the flavonoids present in elderberries are found to be uniquely effective against the flu virus.
How Much Elderberry to Take?
Now that we know the benefits of elderberry, the question arises - how much elderberry to take? The answer is not 'one-size-fits-all', as the dosage depends on various factors: the person's age, health condition, and the form of elderberry supplement intake.
In general, for flu prevention during the cold season, adults can consider taking 1-2 tablespoons of elderberry syrup daily. For treating the flu, adults can take 1-2 tablespoons of elderberry syrup four times a day. It's crucial to ensure that any elderberry supplement must be cooked or processed, as raw elderberries can be toxic.
Before starting any new supplement, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can guide that the proposed treatment plan is safe and suitable for you.
In the battle against cold and flu, every defense matters. Incorporating elderberry supplements in your routine can give you that additional shield, helping keep those seasonal illnesses at bay. As you explore the benefits of Elderberry, remember wellness is not a destination, but a journey to be experienced.
The Healing Abilities of Elderberries
The remarkable health benefits of elderberries are due to their rich concentration of vitamins and antioxidants. They are packed with vitamin C, dietary fiber and antioxidants, especially anthocyanins. These power-packed berries are incredibly potent when it comes to helping your body fight against cold and flu.
When it comes to nutritional punch, nothing beats natural foods, and elderberries are no exception. In fact, a single cup of elderberries contains up to 58.6 mg of vitamin C, which is significant considering that it makes up nearly 77% of the daily recommended intake. Additionally, Elderberries contain a whopping 10.2 grams of dietary fiber which is equivalent to 41% of the daily requirement.
Anthocyanins, on the other hand, are powerful antioxidants that are found in high amounts in elderberries. These antioxidants are known for their potent cell-protecting properties, which play a crucial role in preventing cell damage and reducing inflammation. As a result, they greatly enhance your body’s immune system, thereby providing an effective shield against viral infections, including the common cold and flu.
Elderberry Syrup: A Proven Remedy
An easy and helpful way to make the most out of these super berries is by preparing elderberry syrup. The syrup can be used as a remedy for cold, flu, and cough. Additionally, it can also be put into daily use to strengthen the immune system and maintain overall health.
Preparation of elderberry syrup is quite simple. You will need dried elderberries, water, honey, and some spices for added flavor. You simply need to simmer the berries and spices in water, let it steep for a while, strain the mixture and add honey. This can be stored in the refrigerator and used as and when required.
The Final Verdict
When it comes to boosting your immune system and protecting yourself from the annoying cold and the dreaded flu, elderberries are undoubtedly your best bet. Their high concentration of vitamin C, dietary fiber and antioxidants do not just offer protection against these ailments, but also offer numerous other health benefits. All and all, elderberries are a powerhouse of health and healing properties, making them a must-add to your diet.
Please remember, while elderberry is a powerful natural remedy, it is not a substitute for medical advice. If you're feeling unwell, make sure to consult with a healthcare professional. Stay healthy!