Elderberry might be one of the best-kept health secrets out there. Many supplements are starting to include it in their formula. But what is it and how can it help you?
What is Elderberry?
Although elderberry can refer to a few different varieties of the Sambucus tree, it’s most common type is the Sambucus nigra. It’s a native plant to Europe but grows widely throughout the world. On the Sambucus nigra there grows a dark, tart berry that we commonly refer to as the elderberry.
One of the most important parts of the elderberry is its nutritional value. Elderberry is often referred to as a superfood because of its nutrient profile and antioxidants, while remaining low in calories. For 100 grams of the fresh berries, there are only 73 calories, 18.4 grams of carbs and less than 1 gram of fat and protein.
The elderberry is also high in vitamin C - an important component in strengthening the immune system. And although they’re a great low-calorie snack, elderberries are high in dietary fiber.
Aside from the health benefits of a superfood, elderberry has a long history of being used in homeopathic medicines and treatments.
The other benefit of using elderberry as homeopathic treatment is the variety of ways it can be taken. It’s used in juice, jams, chutneys, pies, even wine. The elderberry flower can also be boiled into a tea or used to make syrups.
Health Benefits of Elderberry
Because elderberries are packed full of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, there are plenty of health benefits you can enjoy from making them a part of your regular diet. Here are just a few of the many benefits from elderberries:
1. Common Cold and Flu
The cold and flu season may be easier if you take elderberry as a supplement. Many studies have shown that it can reduce the severity and length of your symptoms - like fever, headache, muscle aches, and nasal congestion. Other studies suggest that it may even help in preventing the flu.
2. Type II Diabetes
Because elderberries increase insulin secretion to improve blood sugar levels, it may help in preventing type II diabetes. Although there is still limited research on the effects of elderberry on type II diabetes, the results in animal studies are promising.
3. Blood Pressure
Elderberries also reduce the levels of uric acid in the blood, which is one of the main causes of increased blood pressure. Studies performed with animals who were fed a diet that included polyphenols extracted from elderberries showed a reduction in blood pressure and were found to be less susceptible to organ damage caused by high blood pressure.
4. Cardiovascular and Heart Disease
Another strong component in elderberries is flavanols, which have been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Elderberry has also shown to reduce cholesterol and fat levels in the blood, both of which are big contributors to cardiovascular disease.
5. Cancer
In addition to animal and human studies, test-tube studies have shown that elderberries have some cancer-inhibiting properties. While it hasn’t yet been proven in human studies, other benefits that could help with symptoms of cancer.
6. Oxidative Stress
While many people think about their metabolism, it’s not as common to think about the reactive molecules that can accumulate in your body from your metabolism. These reactive molecules can result in oxidative stress which can ultimately lead to diseases like type 2 diabetes and cancer. Luckily, elderberries are high in antioxidants and can offset some of this accumulation.
7. Anti-Inflammatory Response
Another reason the antioxidants in elderberries are so important is for inflammation. In an animal study, rats that were given elderberry extract had reduced inflammation. And while this hasn’t yet been replicated in humans, it shows promise for those who suffer a chronic inflammatory illness or autoimmune disease that results in inflammation.
Takeaways
Whether you decide to take elderberry for the health benefits, to aid in your weight loss goals, or to help get you through the next cold and flu season, We have the supplement for you. Our Elderberry Immune Fruit Extract is formulated to be the immune system support that your body is craving. By using a powerful extract from the elderberry, you’ll enjoy all the antioxidant and immune health benefits possible. Instead of simply dealing with your inflammation and poor immune system, give it the boost your body wants with our Elderberry Immune Fruit Extract.