I have been making using homemade elderberry syrup for many years now. I used to buy ready made elderberry gummies or syrup and it got to be too costly and I really didn't feel comfortable with some of the ingredients listed on the label.
Why is the tiny little elderberry important this time of year? Well, we have all heard the fall and winter months called "cold and flu season". I am not sure about that - the cold and flu viruses are around all the time - any time of year. (Scientists still don't know why people are more susceptible to these viruses during the colder months but suggest that it could be how the body creates lower levels of mucus to trap the viruses as well as a decrease in Vitamin D levels in our bodies - Medical New Today). We can try to protect ourselves by eating a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables and getting as much sun as possible to help our bodies produce Vitamin D - taking a supplement is also an option but do your own research and discuss it with your doctor.
So, can elderberry really protect from colds, flu, and viruses?
Yes! Studies have shown it does have benefits.
Elderberry benefits:
- elderberry is know to have immune stimulating effects from the its chemical compounds; stimulating the immune system can increase your body's ability to fight off viruses
- flavonoids in the elderberry have been shown to bind to certain viruses and neutralize them
- another study has shown that elderberry can shorten the duration of a cold or flu by an average of 4 days!
- a 2019 study concluded that the elderberry reduced the symptoms of upper-respiratory infections.
The little elderberry has numerous benefits other than the cold and flu - but that is info for another article!
If you are interested in making your own elderberry syrup, below you will find a link to my recipe or a link to my Elderberry Syrup Kit which is now sold on my website and will be sold in the store later this month. It is easy to make and you can control the ingredients yourself! The kit contains all you need - you just add water and honey to taste! Easy!!
Click here for my elderberry syrup recipe - Homemade Elderberry Syrup
Click here for my elderberry making kit - Elderberry Syrup Kit
I do have to say that the elderberry has been used for centuries to combat colds and flu - many pharmaceutical companies and other sources will try to dissuade people from using natural remedies, many of which have been used for centuries with documented positive results.
I am required to say that I am not a doctor and that you must do your own research. This product is not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent disease.
Sara
Certified Holistic Nutritionist
Herbalist
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