Julie Steinkamp Do you know the benefits of elderberries? Imagine having something on hand year-round that can boost your immune system, help to reduce overall inflammation and flood your body with powerful antioxidants.
Now, imagine that ingredient is just a little berry. But it’s not just any berry.
These small, dark little gems have been around for centuries and are making a come-back. And for good reason too! The benefits of elderberries are amazing! We will dive into those in just a minute.
These little gems are so versatile. From fighting colds and flu, which is their most popular use, to reducing inflammation, to being good for heart heath, skin, digestion and more, they pack a powerful punch and bring a ton of support to the body.
Elderberries help to maintain overall wellness by being rich in antioxidants and vitamins that can help to fend off unwanted guests in the body.
A Little of Our Story:
We have been using Elderberry Syrup for the past 7+ years. I was pregnant with our third kiddo when I dove down this rabbit hole. That is a story for another time.
But I was hooked after I saw the benefits and support that this little berry gave our family.
I get asked a lot what all of the benefits of it are. Now keep in mind this post is specifically for Elderberries. I will write up a whole other post on the benefits of Elderberry Syrup which packs even more of a punch for supporting our health.
But I stared with the main ingredient. The Elderberry! This one little berry is amazing and fascinating. I already knew some of this which is why we have been using it, but I learned many more fascinating benefits of the Elderberry while researching.
From cardiovascular support to colds and flus, to inflammation in the body to blood pressure, blood sugar, digestive health, this little berry can help support a lot in our body. God gave us some amazing plants!!!
The History of Elderberries:
Scientific name: Sambucus Nigra.
The Elderberry has been around for centuries, tracing back to ancient civilizations. They used to be a staple in traditional medicine. It was recognized for its healing capabilities for various ailments by the Ancient Greeks and Egyptians, including the famous physician Hippocrates. Hippocrates even referred to it as his “medicine chest” due to the wide range of applications and uses that it has. Native Americans even used elderberry for treating skin problems, wounds and rheumatism.
These are our favorite dried elderberries that we use!
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The Key Nutrients in Elderberries:
They are particularly known for its high levels of:
- Vitamin C
- Dietary fiber
- Antioxidants
It also contains significant amounts of:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Calcium
- Iron
- Zinc
And just to keep the list going, Elderberries are also rich in:
- Anthocyanins
- A type of flavonoid, they are naturally occurring pigments in purple, blue and red fruits and vegetables. It protects plants from environmental stressors. It is said to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anticancer effects on the body. Some studies also show that it may play a role in cardiovascular and neurological health.
- Phenolic Acids
- A type of Polyphenol, these are found in various plant tissues including fruits, vegetables, grains and herbs. They are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies show that these can help protect the body against cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain cancers. They may also contribute to cognitive health and gut health.
- Quercetin
- A type of flavonoid, a plant pigment, naturally occurring in certain foods. It has high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the body that are said to reduce swelling, fight and kill cancer cells, help control allergies, help to support blood pressure, control blood sugar and help prevent heart disease. The list could go on. This one natural constituent can help support the body in so many ways.
Oh my gosh, seriously, so much information, I could keep going. Maybe I will make an Elderberry Part Two post later, so this one doesn’t get too long…
Pin for Later!
Below Are Some of My Favorite Benefits of Elderberries:
Prevention
As long as you are using clean, whole food, elderberries, it is amazing to use daily as a preventative to any and all of the various things you will read about in this post and even more things, the list really does go on… The thing with natural remedies is that the more consistent we are with them, the more effective they are.
Cold and Flus
This is the basics. This is one of the main things that elderberries are known to help with. Like I mentioned, elderberries can be used every day in some form as a preventative. It can also be used and taken if symptoms of a cold or flu present themselves. The sooner you use it though, the quicker it can help reduce the symptoms severity and duration.
Immune Support
Used for overall immune function, the antioxidants in elderberries, including anthocyanins and quercetin may boost your immune systems response to pathogens. Not only is this important if a virus sets in but in maintaining a healthy immune system overall.
Healthy Cells
We have around 37 trillion cells in our body. The goal is to keep all of these cells functioning at tip top shape. Having a natural supplement to help flush these cells with antioxidants regularly is beneficial to all functioning body systems.
Sinus and Viral Infections/Respiratory and Congestion
Typically, all of these are connected. If you have a sinus issue or a viral issue, typically it will cause congestion or impact the respiratory system. The benefits of elderberries here is that they contain antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It is shown to shorten duration to these issues and well as relieve symptoms. Elderberries are packed with minerals, vitamins and antioxidants which area all beneficial in supporting the body and immune system anytime it is trying to fight off an unwanted pathogen or virus.
Digestion, Regularity and Kidney Function
Elderberries can boost digestive health and can promote good gut bacteria and keeping things regular. They also function as a natural diuretic which can enhance kidney function by regular elimination of toxins through increased urination. The antioxidants help to keep free radicals and toxic buildup flushed out of our bodies.
Cancer-Fighting Potential
This is kind of a taboo topic, I know. But I still feel the need to share. You get to choose what to do with it. While it’s not claimed to cure cancers, the antioxidants found in elderberries have been shown to present anticancer properties and prevent cancer cell growth. Just something to tuck in your back pocket.
Heart Health
Elderberries have been shown to possibly influence blood sugar levels for the positive which is an important factor for those managing conditions like type 2 diabetes. It is also said to help lower and balance blood pressure levels due to the presence of the antioxidants known as the polyphenols in the berries. All of these things beneficial to cardiovascular health.
Skin Health
Having high levels of Vitamin C, which promotes collagen production makes elderberries a benefit for skin health as well. It can help to reduce signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. They can also help protect against environmental damage and hyperpigmentation.
Disclaimer
Now, while our family has been taking elderberries in the form of elderberry syrup for over 7 years, you are your own advocate. I can’t tell you what will work for your body or your family. I can only teach things I have learned over the years of diving into our world of natural remedies. Please note: using elderberries for medicinal and health purposes is not FDA approved. I can’t tell you that it will cure the ailments talked about in this post. But after everything I have learned I feel the need to share because ultimately elderberries are a food. And whole foods can do wonders for our bodies. You get to be the judge for you and your family.
Our Favorite Ways to Consume Elderberries:
Elderberry Syrup
This is our favorite way. We have been using and taking elderberry syrup for years. It’s easy, tasty and the kids will drink it up as well.
Elderberry Tea
Teas are beneficial as well. They can be a soothing way to ingest antioxidants. A warm cup of elderberry tea with honey can be very soothing to a sore throat and can help with congestion.
Are There Any Precautions for Elderberries?
Elderberries have an array of health benefits but consuming elderberries raw isn’t recommended as they can contain cyanogenic glycosides. These can release cyanide. Don’t worry though, it just takes proper preparation to neutralize these compounds.
It’s very important to source your elderberry products from reputable suppliers. You don’t want to use elderberries that have been sprayed with chemicals, especially when using for medicinal purposes. It’s also important to ensure what you are using has been prepared properly.
Again, I’m not a doctor. Consult your doctor if you have questions with using elderberries alongside medications or if you have any concerns with your personal medical history. I am just a Mama who loves finding natural options for her family. My education on oils and natural remedies is how our family has used these over the years and the benefits we have seen. You are the gatekeeper of your home and know your family so please keep that in mind while following us on this journey. Also, when speaking about essential oils, we use Young Living in our family and have for over seven years. These are the oils that I have researched and feel comfortable with for our family. Not all oils are created equal, and I talk more about that here.
I hope that you found this post helpful in understanding some of the many benefits of elderberries and why we love them so much in our family!!!
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DIY Natural Teething Balm for Babies
Natural Teething Remedies for Babies and Toddlers
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