Fight the Flu with Elderberry
August 6th, 2009 by Cindy Hebbard
With all the interest about the H1 N1 (swine) flu this year, it is more important than ever to do all we can to naturally strengthen our immune systems before this flu season hits. An ideal herb for the job, Elderberry has been revered throughout much of the world for more than a thousand years for boosting immune health to support prevention of colds and viruses, as well as helping the body fight the flu once it has struck.
My introduction to Elderberries was making jam, wine and pies with my elder neighbor as a girl. I have appreciated this nutritious food and valuable herbal remedy ever since. My first sighting of the vibrant, deep purple umbels of berries each late summer brings feelings of euphoria and comfort to my entire being.
Numerous research studies have shown that Elderberry strengthens the immune system and helps fight viral and bacterial infections in people of virtually all ages and health conditions. One study shows that Elderberry can improve outcomes of cancer and AIDS patients as complimentary therapy with chemotherapy and other treatments.
Elderberries are nourishing and detoxifying. Very rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, including quercetin, as well as tannins, amino acids, carotenoids (pro-vitamin A) and much of the B complex, Elderberries help to alkalize and strengthen most of our organs and systems. They’re also known to benefit the eyes, skin, sinuses, tonsillitis, cholesterol levels, fevers, cardiovascular health, the genitourinary region and are calming for the nervous system.
Our local North American Elder (Sambucus canadensis) is a small bush, usually growing to about 8’ high and 6 – 10’ wide. The European variety, the Black Elder (Sambucus nigra), grows to be considerably bigger to the height of a small tree, usually no more than 30 feet high.
Elderberries are as important for the immune health of our local and migrating birds as they are for humans. Many invasive species, such as Japanese knotweed, have taken over regions where Elder used to grow, crowding it out and therefore likely weakening our bird populations’ ability to fight infections. Do you suppose that could be one of the reasons we need to worry more these days about viruses associated with birds, or birds and pigs?
So if you are interested in supporting your local bird populations and attracting migrating birds to your yard or wild area, please consider planting several Elder bushes next spring.
The red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa), not common in our region, is considered to be slightly toxic, and the wood from this species is more significantly toxic, especially for children. But the berries and flowers of the two medicinal varieties are considered very safe and beneficial for our health.
Your local co-op or Mom-and-Pop health food store likely carries a fine selection of elderberry products in their wellness section. Here in Vermont, our local brand is Elderberry Syrup from Honey Gardens Apiaries of Vermont. Prevention never tasted so good! My other favorite Elderberry syrup, called Sambu (or Sambu Guard) from Flora Health, has been sold on the European market for more than 100 years. Look for the other excellent capsule and tincture products, as well, including Gaia, New Chapter and Herb Pharm.
The way Elderberry syrup was traditionally used over the centuries was one half to one teaspoon in the morning and again in the evening to keep the immune system strong throughout cold and flu season; smaller children would use about one fourth teaspoon morning and night.
Some products contain honey, so please use caution in this way if desiring to administer to babies less than one year old. (Check with her/his pediatrician for a better form. Herb Pharm makes a wonderful Black Elderberry Glycerite .) When people found themselves ill, they would take more frequent servings throughout the day, drink plenty of water and get lots of rest. In this way, they’d be feeling strong and vibrant in no time.
