Elderberries have been used for centuries to help with a variety of ailments and it is known to help strengthen the immune system and is especially beneficial for coughs, colds, flu, tonsillitis, bacterial and viral infections.
Elderberry is also used for its antioxidant activity, to lower cholesterol, to improve vision, to boost the immune system, and to improve heart health.
It has been reported that bioflavonoids and other proteins in the juice destroy the ability of cold and flu viruses to infect a cell. People with the flu who took elderberry juice reported less severe symptoms and felt better much faster than those who did not.
Elderberry is listed in the 2000 Mosby’s Nursing Drug reference for colds, flu, yeast infections, nasal and chest congestion, and hay fever. In Israel, the Hasassah’s Oncology Lab has determined that elderberry stimulates the body’s immune system and they use it with their cancer and AIDS patients.
They are ALWAYS eaten cooked, as they are considered poisonous raw. You will find these dark elderberries in some cough syrups. Elderberry syrup is a great preventative to boost the immune system or as medicine for sore throats or cough. I stumbled upon this scrumptious medicinal elderberry syrup recipe and an elderberry fudge recipe! What a marvelous way to get your elderberries.
Elderberry Fudge with Rosehip Syrup
Say no to colds and use medicinal elderberry!
Rhonda
