As a natural health advocate I have several favorite remedies that I believe everyone should take and have in their “medicine chest”.  One of these is elderberries.

Elderberries are a member of the honeysuckle family and have  been used as a natural remedy for centuries.   The first recorded use was by Hippocrates and used extensively by the Native Americans. Elderberries have recently regained popularity and become well known as an immune boosting supplement. These deep purple berries contain a large amount of vitamin C, vitamin A and B and are rich in flavonoids which include quercetin and  anthocyanins. Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can activate immune cells that help the body to fight off viruses. The elderberry fruit also contains components known as lectins which have been shown in the laboratory to stop replication of ten different strains of the flu virus.  During the recent H1N1 flu outbreak, elderberries proved to be a very effective remedy in my family and among my clients. Elderberries are a versatile herb and can be used to treat a diversity of ailments.  In addition to boosting the immune system elderberries can help to lower cholesterol levels, improve vision, and assist the cardiovascular system.

Elderberries can be used in a variety of ways: they make delicious jelly, tea, syrup and even wine.  Both the flowers and fruit have medicinal properties. The flowers can be brewed as tea and are commonly used in skin care products.  

Elderberries are safe and useful to take for extended periods of time, it is especially useful to take elderberry tonic or syrup throughout the winter months due to its powerful antioxidant and anti-viral benefits.  I encourage you to try this nutrient superstar, that is not only packed full of health benefits but is delectable too. We sell a tasty elderberry syrup on our website that I enjoy taking everyday. I often pour a small glass and sip it for my dessert or I also put it on my salad I encourage you to discover the magical properties of the elderberry.

Nicole Hawksley

Natural Health Practitioner

www.acureforyou.com

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