Health Benefits of the Elderberry
Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine”, described the elderberry as a “medicine chest” because of the variety of ailments that it seemed to cure. The elderberry is rich in flavonoids, or plant based antioxidants. These powerful flavonoids will not only boost your immune system, but also prevent damage to your body’s cells. It can also be used as a natural anti-inflammatory. The elderberry also contains high levels of vitamin A and vitamin C. While not as significant as the other vitamins, the berry also holds good levels of vitamin B6 and potassium. All of this combined makes the elderberry a tiny, but powerful superfood. Although the elderberry is a superfood, eating the berries raw can actually make you sick. In order to access all of its healing properties, you must first dry out the berries. Then you can use the dried berries to make a tea or syrup.Cold and Flu Prevention
The most common use of elderberry syrup is to prevent and treat colds or the flu. Numerous studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of elderberry syrup. They have all reached the conclusion that patients who used elderberry syrup recovered nearly twice and fast as those who did not use elderberry syrup. Not only does the syrup shorten the time of your illness, but it lessens the severity of the symptoms. The elderberry is known as a “anti-catarrhal” herb. This means that it prevents mucus formation and inflammation in the sinuses. Adults can take 1 tablespoon of elderberry syrup 2-3 times a day to prevent colds and the flu. However if you have already contracted a cold or the flu, take 2 tablespoons of syrup 2-3 times a day until the symptoms are gone.Allergy Relief
Not only does elderberry syrup treat colds and the flu, but it can also be used for quick allergy relief. The anti-catarrhal herb reduces the inflammation in your sinuses. It will also reduce the sneezing, itch and watery eyes, runny nose, and sore throats that are associated with allergies. It has been found to be highly effective during hay-fever season because it can strengthen your upper respiratory tract.Are Bees Involved in the Production of Elderberry Syrup?
Bees play a crucial role in the production of elderberry syrup. These tiny pollinators transfer pollen from one flower to another, enabling the elderberry plants to produce fruits. Without bees, the pollination process would be incomplete, leading to lower fruit yield. Therefore, it is important to recognize and appreciate why bees are crucial in ensuring a successful elderberry syrup production.