The results were similar to Dr. Mumcuoglu’s results. On average, the patients who received the elderberry syrup saw relief of symptoms 4 days earlier than the group that received the placebo syrup. As an added benefit, the patients in the elderberry syrup group reported taking significantly fewer over-the-counter medications in hopes of symptom relief.
Researchers also have found 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 also be able to prevent influenza infection.”
2. Sinus Infection Aid
The strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help sinus issues in a natural way. Swiss scientists have evaluated the effects of a proprietary product, Sinupret, which contains elderberry flowers, in the treatment of bacterial sinusitis in a combination with an antibiotic (doxycycline or Vibramycin) and a decongestant, and found that it boosted the effects of the medications.
3. Lowers Blood Sugar
The berry and the flower have been used as a diabetes cure for centuries. The elderflower extract has been found to stimulate glucose metabolism and the secretion of insulin, and thus decreases blood sugar levels.
4. Eases Allergies
The flowers of the elder plant are a powerful herbal allergy remedy, as this plant fortifies the immune system, and soothes inflammation. It cleanses the liver and eliminates toxins as well, and herbalists claim that it also treats hay fever-like symptoms.
5. Natural Diuretic
This plant has powerful diuretic properties, so it effectively fights water retention.
6. Natural Laxative
Elderberry fights constipation, since it acts as a natural laxative, and stimulates healthy bowel movements.
7. Encourages Healthy Skin
Elderberry is often added to numerous cosmetic products, as it is rich in antioxidants, vitamin A, and bioflavonoids, that improve the healthy appearance of the skin, prevent premature aging and provide a healthy skin glow.
You can buy elderberry online or in the nearest local health store. You can consume it in the form of juice, tea, jelly and jams, wine, in ointments, as powder, syrups, pills, lozenges, sprays, and capsules.
The elderberry syrup is the best way to treat the flu, colds, and upper respiratory issues, so here is how to prepare it:
Homemade Elderberry Syrup
Ingredients:
2 cups organic dried elderberries
1 tablespoon fresh or dried organic ginger root
1 teaspoon organic cinnamon powder or 1 cinnamon stick
3.5 cups cold water
1 cup raw honey
Instructions:
In a saucepan, pour the water, and add the elderberries, cinnamon, and ginger. Boil the syrup, lower the heat, and leave to simmer for 45 minutes, covered. Then, remove the saucepan from heat, mash the berries, and strain through a strainer or cheesecloth into a glass bowl. Sweeten with honey, and pour the syrup in a sterilized glass container.
Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS says:
“This herb can deactivate the flu virus and naturally boost immunity. The flowers and berries of elderberry are said to boost the immune system, treat flu and relieve sinus pain.
Elderberry attacks flu viruses and reduces bronchial inflammation. A preliminary study found that when 15 milliliters of elderberry syrup was taken four times daily for a five-day period, it relieved symptoms of influenza an average of four days earlier than those taking a placebo. “
You can also drink elderberry tea by adding a tablespoon of dried berries or flowers to eight ounces of water.
Note that the ripe, cooked berries of most of the Sambucus species are edible, but do not consume them raw, as they contain a cyanide-inducing chemical.
Sometimes, the elderflowers and elderberries cause allergic reactions, so discontinue their use if you notice a mild reaction. You should also not use them if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
People suffering from an autoimmune disease, those with organ transplants, or individuals taking diuretics, diabetes medications, laxatives, immune-suppressing drugs, or undergoing chemotherapy, should not take elderberry.