Elderberry Benefits

During the spread of covid our family took elderberry syrups as precautionary steps to help stave off sickness. My wife’s creation of her own delicious syrup was an instant hit with friends and family. This reaction drove us to dive deeper into the elderberry world.

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The Internet is filled with resources touting the benefits of elderberry.  Before describing here we caution that any food or plant product should be researched and used in moderation.

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Elderberry fruit (the berries) contain, vitamins and antioxidants. Scientifically called Sambucus. These components are believed to address oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

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Nutritionally, 8oz of elderberry contains 870 mg of vitamin A, 406 mg of potassium, 52.2 mg of vitamin C, 9mg of folate, 55 mg of calcium and 2.32 mg of iron as listed by Medical News Today and cited below. There are 26.7 grams of carbs, .07 grams of fat and 1 gram of protein per cup.

 

Treatments using elderberry go back millennia. An article by Chris Webb, M.S., Herbal Medicine New Chapter Formulator states the Greeks used the plant at the start of the Common Era since the birth of Yeshua. It is found in many cultures around the world including Native Americans.

 

There are cautions. Ingesting the leaves, roots and branches can lead to cyanide toxicity. Including when the fruit is unripe. Causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.  Purchase from a trusted source.

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When handled and used properly the science is interesting. A randomized study of oral elderberry syrup of 60 individuals between 18 and 54 years of age with influenza-similar symptoms for up to 2 days saw relief of symptoms on average 4 days sooner in 2004.

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A study in 2016 among air-passengers, again found a reduction in symptoms for influenza and the common cold. In our opinion the elderberry is one of many natural remedies that our family will benefit from and we are excited about farming it.