The Elderberry tree is native to Europe, Asia and is also found in some parts of the United States. It produces small black or blue berries. There are several species of elderberry some of which its fruits are toxic. The European elderberry bush, also known as Sambucas nigra or the Black Elder is the most commonly used for its medicinal purposes, both internally and externally. The berries of the elderberry bush and its flowers have been used for thousands of years by ancient cultures as both a preventive and treatment for common ailments. This article discusses the health benefits of elderberries, their nutritional value, recommended dosages and side effects.
Nutritional Value of Elderberries
The fruit of the elderberry bush contains significantly high amounts of vitamins A, B, B6 and C. Additionally elderberries are a good source of the minerals calcium and iron. They also contain flavonoids, carotenoids, plant sterols, viburnic acid, tannins and essential oils. It is not recommended to eat raw elderberries due to the fact that they also contain a toxic chemical similar to cyanide. Supplements of elderberry contain extracts from the berries and are considered safe to consume.
Health Benefits of Elderberry
Powerful Antioxidant
Being a rich source of vitamin C, elderberries are a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants help rid the body of destructive free radicals. Free radicals can be thought of as rust causing chemicals in the body. They cause the oxidization of tissues which leads to inflammation. Inflammation is a precursor to most disease processes in the body. Free radicals have been linked to causing both cancer and heart disease.
Anti-Inflammatory
In supplement form, elderberry can be used to treat urinary tract infections and bladder infections. It can help relieve symptoms associated with the inflammation in these common infections. As a topical cream, elderberry has shown to be effective in treating psoriasis, eczema and acne. The tannins and viburnic acid in elderberries provide its anti-inflammatory properties.
Laxative and Diuretic
Elderberry supplements can help relieve constipation and also have a diuretic effect which helps to rid the body of excess water. Can also help you to loose weight but should be noted that the weight loss is due to water loss rather than fat accumulation.
Cold and Influenza Remedy
Elderberry supplements are popular choice to both prevent and treat colds and influenza. They can help boost the immune system to help prevent bacterial and viral infections of the respiratory tract. They help relieve the symptoms of colds and influenza. The active chemicals in elderberry reduce swelling of the mucus membranes of the respiratory tract and help relieve sinus congestion.
Lowers Bad Cholesterol
Some studies have shown that elderberry is effective at lowering bad cholesterol in the blood. Bad cholesterol causes fatty plaques to build up on the walls of arteries. This reduces the blood flow through these arteries leading to high blood pressure. Eventually these plaques can occlude the flow of blood through the arteries which leads to heart attack and or stroke. Elderberry may be effective for the prevention of heart disease and as a treatment.
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Early studies are showing that elderberry supplements are effective at lowering blood sugar levels. Higher than normal blood sugar levels are common in people suffering from diabetes. If blood sugar levels are not controlled effectively it can lead to some serious health problems.
Side Effects of Elderberry Supplements
It is not recommended that people who are currently taking diabetic medications supplement with elderberries because it can cause blood sugar levels to drop dangerously low. It is also not recommended that people taking diuretic medications to take this supplement as can cause dehydration. Pregnant and breast feeding mothers should also not take this supplement. Side effects from supplements are rare but can cause dizziness, headaches, muscle weakness, rapid heart rate, convulsions and or abdominal cramps. Allergic reactions can occur in some sensitive people especially if you are allergic to honeysuckle. You should always talk to your doctor before commencing on any supplement as elderberry can interact with your current medications and may not be appropriate for you.
Dosages
Elderberry and Elderberry flower is available in liquid form, as a tincture or extract, in capsule form and also as a lozenge. To treat colds and influenza it is recommended to take 4 tablespoons of elderberry extract 3 times per day or two capsules three times a day. Elderflower is also available as a tea of which you can drink up to three times a day. Be sure to always read the labels on elderberry products re safe and recommended dosages. Potency levels of elderberry can vary in each product. Always purchase reputable brands. Elderberry and Elderberry flower is available in most health food shops and online.
In conclusion, elderberry can provide you with some powerful health benefits. Until more research is conducted to prove or disprove its effectiveness, it is probably best to only supplement with it over the short term. Long term effects of this supplement and many others remain inconclusive. If you are considering supplementing with elderberry, talk to your doctor first, who can advise you if this supplement is appropriate and safe for you.
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