Elderberries are native to Europe, Asia, and North America and only blue and black berries are medicinal, not the red berries. The flowers and berries are both used. Elderberry extract found to be important weapon against influenza virus. Its extract is effective and tasty herbal remedy that you can use to boost your immunity during cold and flu season.
Elderberries work by preventing the influenza virus from being able to attach and replicate within host cells in your body. Its syrup is not just good for when you are sick either. It is a highly effective preventative too as it is loaded with antioxidants, Vitamin C and immune supporting minerals.
Study
According to Journal of International Medical Research elderberry extract is a proven treatment, referencing a different study:
“Elderberry has been used in folk medicine for centuries to treat influenza, colds and sinusitis, and has been reported to have antiviral activity against influenza and herpes simplex. We investigated the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry syrup for treating influenza A and B infections. Sixty patients (aged 18 – 54 years) suffering from influenza-like symptoms for 48 h or less were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study during the influenza season of 1999 – 2000 in Norway. Patients received 15 ml of elderberry or placebo syrup four times a day for 5 days, and recorded their symptoms using a visual analogue scale. Symptoms were relieved on average 4 days earlier and use of rescue medication was significantly less in those receiving elderberry extract compared with placebo. Elderberry extract seems to offer an efficient, safe and cost-effective treatment for influenza.”
Simple Elderberry Extract Recipe
Ingredients:
1/2 – 3/4 cup organic dried elderberries
3 cups filtered water
3/4 – 1 cup raw local unfiltered honey
Directions:
-Place dried elderberries and filtered water in a medium saucepan.
-Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer on medium-low for 30 minutes.
-Mash the elderberries to release any remaining juice.
-Strain the mixture into a glass bowl using a cheesecloth.
-When the liquid has come to room temperature, gently stir in the raw honey and mix thoroughly.
-Store in dark cool place or in the refrigerator.
How to Consume?
A single teaspoon once or twice a day is sufficient as a preventative measure.
How It Works?
Scientists found the active compound in the elderberry called Antivirin prevents the flu virus from invading the membranes of healthy cells. This compound found in proteins of the black elderberry.
Additional Sources:
– http://www.raysahelian.com/elderberry.html
– http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/simple-elderberry-syrup-to-boost-immunity/
– http://healthbeginsathome.com/elderberry-outshines-prescription-antivirals-in-influenza-studies/
– http://www.activistpost.com/2013/01/elderberry-extract-natures-tamiflu.html
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