Elderberries are widely known for their ability to boost the immune system and help the body fight off bacteria or viruses. In fact, elderberry is commonly used in the flu vaccine. In addition to providing allergy relief, elderberries can also be used to help lower blood pressure, aid digestion, and even slow cancer cell growth.
Sambucus nigra, commonly referred to as elderflower, is the plant that bears elderberries. Because of the scientific name, many people believe that the elderberry is the base ingredient for Sambuca, but this is not true. These plants are typically found in the Northern hemisphere, especially in North America or Europe. Elderberries are packed with loads of nutrients that provide people with many health benefits.
Boosts Immunity
Because elderberries have antibacterial and anti-infectious properties, they are popular for boosting the immune system. While they are beneficial for combating influenza or foreign invaders in the body, elderberries can also help to inhibit the effects and symptoms of certain autoimmune disorders.
Improves Bone Health
Elderberries have been known to help alleviate joint or muscle pain because of the powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Also, the high levels of essential minerals help to promote stronger bones and new bone tissue.
Helps With Weight Loss
Because elderberries contain lots of fiber, they help to keep you feeling full. They also help to boost your metabolism and digest food more efficiently, which is an integral step to successful weight loss.
Caution Warning
Few species of elderberry are actually edible, which is why it is important to get elderberries from a credible, licensed store. Don’t go into the woods and pluck whatever resembles an elderberry because it could be deathly poisonous.
What You Will Need To Make An Elderberry Tincture
- 2/3 cup dried elderberries
- 5 cups filtered water
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger root
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- ½ teaspoon clove powder
- 1 cup organic raw honey
Instructions:
- Combine everything except for the honey in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Once it is boiling, reduce heat to a low simmer for 45 minutes so that the liquid reduces by about half.
- Remove from the heat and carefully mash the berries in the pan. Strain through a mesh strainer into a glass jar.
- Once it is lukewarm, stir in the honey. You can store this airtight glass jar in the fridge and take it daily.
- Children can take ½ teaspoon or 1 teaspoon of the syrup and adults can take ½ tablespoon or 1 tablespoon once a day. If you get hit with the flu, take these respective measurements every 3 hours.
