It was brought to my attention that elderberry is a fabulous immune booster. In the midst of cold and flu season, this is great information to add to my whole foods arsenal to beat the blahs. Often used for jams and jellies, elderberries are now thought to have some real benefits for the body besides sating the sweet tooth in jam form.
The woman who told me about the elderberry based cough & cold medication sold in health food stores stated that she used it three or four times a day and noted that she felt better within two days. Apparently, the tea (using berries only as the stems and leaves are toxic to humans and animals) has the same benefit of clearing lungs of congestion, reducing fever, inflammation, and aches..
The next super food? Perhaps. Since elderberry is also a diuretic, it has been touted to help cleanse the urinary tract, liver & kidneys, and also has the effects to act as a mild laxative thus alleviating gas, bloating and constipation. Elderberry is also full of vitamins A, B and C, as well minerals and antioxidants that are known to protect cells from damage.
This powerful little berry is packed full of goodness in the form of extracts and teas that have enough benefits for this girl to stock it regularly in the house. (When I find a reliable and organic source since mine is still a baby tree and not producing). As with any nutraceutical, I always check with a doctor to ensure it won't counteract any medications currently being used, but I see elderberry tea smoothies in my not so distant future!
*NOTE 2/16/13: While sourcing organic tea, I've also learned that elderberry may also be beneficial with allergies, and specifically joint pain. Elderberry tea can be made by infusing 1/2 teaspoon of the dried berries in about 250 ml cup of boiled water. Let the mix steep for about 10 to 15 minutes. Cool, strain and drink up to three times a day.
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