Elderberry has been used been used as a natural health remedy for years. Traditionally, the flowers and leaves have been used for pain relief, swelling, inflammation, to stimulate the production of urine, to induce sweating, and even to reduce fever. More and more research is supporting what many natural health practitioners have been saying for a while… that this tiny plant also has strong antiviral properties and may be able to fight off colds and flu.
Elderberry is high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, phenolic acids, flavanols and anthocyanins. More and more research shows that people who have taken elderberries have higher levels of antibodies against the influenza virus, showing that not only may the berry be able to treat flu symptoms, it may be able to prevent influenza infection or reduce the length of time it takes for the flu virus to run its course. This may be partly due to a specific protein substance in elderberries called hemagglutinin protein, which helps to stop a virus’ capability to replicate by inhibiting its ability to penetrate the cell wall. This could prevent the flu virus from causing infection, if taken before exposure. If elderberries are taken after infection, it may help keep the virus from spreading, reducing the duration of the influenza symptoms.
Elderberry is available is capsules, crystals and liquid. Talk to us to find out what is best for you and your family. Stay healthy!
Photo from here, with thanks.
