Does elderberry really fight against colds and flus?  Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, knew back in 400 BC that elderberry had medicinal qualities.  Historically, elderberry has been shown to be anti-viral, anti-bacterial and an immune system stimulator. 

Recent research shows that elderberry is high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, iron, bioflavonoids, and phosphorus.  

There have been many studies showing the efficacy of elderberry in treatment of viruses and bacterial infections.  In 2011, researchers studied the effects of elderberry and found that they possess antimicrobial activity against strains of bacteria such as Streptococci as well as influenza (source).   In another study, patients with influenza B, who were given elderberry extract, recovered 4 days earlier than the placebo group (source).  More recently, a 2014 study showed that elderberry extract can inhibit infectious bronchitis virus when given at an early stage (source).  

The FDA recognizes elderberry as a generally safe herb, but you should speak to your pediatrician or doctor to make sure it is appropriate for you or your children.  Elderberry syrup can be found over the counter at most health food stores, but many of them have added sugar – something you want to avoid, especially when you are sick! 

Here is an excellent article about elderberry syrup and how it can benefit your family.  As the article explains, you can also give your kids elderberry jellies, teas, etc.

Here is another article explaining the many benefits of elderberry including how it can help with brain development, immune coordination, digestion, and blood flow.

Below is an easy recipe that I love.  Raw Honey is added to this particular recipe for it's ability to be a natural preservative as well as for it's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects (source).

SIMPLE ELDERBERRY SYRUP

½ cup dried elderberries (where to buy elderberries)

2 cups water

1/2 cup raw honey (buy local) *(never feed honey to infants under 12 months)

Cook elderberries in water until it starts to boil. Let it simmer until it reduces by half.  Drain elderberries and pour liquid into a sterile ball jar. Let it cool to room temperature and then add honey.  (Store in refrigerator for up to one month.)

 Here are a few other options:

Honey Garden Organic Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry Elixir (without honey)

Sugar-free elderberry jelly (spread it on your toast, or add it to your cheese tray!)

Raw Honey with elderberry (add it to your tea, spread on your toast, mix into oatmeal, or enjoy on a spoon!)

Elderberry Tea (sip and enjoy!)

 

CHEERS TO GOOD HEALTH!