What is elderberry? You might be thinking about this as a health supplement intended for elders or older people, right? Well, you’re wrong. First of all, elderberries are harvested from the indigenous Sambucus elder tree. A rich source of antioxidants, elderberries earned the reputation of being effective in treating hay fever, constipation, common cold, flu, and sinus infections.
This age-old flu and cold treatment, however, may also have other significant benefits. It is worthy to discuss some of them.
Health benefits from elderberry can be directly attributed to its antioxidant called anthocyanin. As an antioxidant, it effectively clears the body by fighting against free radicals that damage our cells. Aside from that, it has also antiviral compounds that may lessen the intensity of certain infections. Its anti-inflammatory effects help reduce the pain and swelling by moderating the immune response of the body.
- Fights cold and flu – for centuries, elderberry juice syrup has been used as a home treatment for cold and flu. It is believed to reduce the infection’s duration and severity if taken within 48 hours after the first sign of symptoms.
- Constipation – tea made from dried elderberry is said to be an effective treatment of constipation. Constipation is the condition where one is experiencing difficulty in emptying the bowels and is commonly associated with hardened feces. The laxative effect from the tea is credited to a compound known as anthraquinone. The compound inhibits water absorption in the intestines. As a result, it increases the pressure in the intestines causing stimulation of muscle contractions which eventually promote clearance in the bowel movement.
- Effective pain reliever – elderberry’s property known as anthocyanins are widely considered to reduce inflammation. Anthocyanins inhibit the production of nitric oxide in the immune cells. Nitric oxide poses as the signaling molecule that sets off inflammation in reaction to diseases or injuries. By moderating nitric oxide’s response, a person can be relieved from pain and swelling.
- Lowers the risk of diabetes and enhances heart health – elderberries are rich in flavanols, natural compounds in plants with antioxidant properties. Because of this, elderberry may significantly help in the enhancement of heart health. Research shows that elderberries can lower cholesterol and enhance blood sugar levels.
Final thoughts
Even though there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all remedy for all kinds of illnesses, many believe that elderberry is one of nature’s most flexible treatments for what troubles you.
There are about 30 types of elder trees and plants across the globe. However, the European version which is also known as Sambucus nigra is perhaps the most closely related to your health improvement. To ensure safety and quality, only purchase elderberry supplements that have been certified by an independent certifying body.
As for Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine,” he called the elder trees his “medicine chest.”