Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra), is an anti-inflammatory and antiviral herb with a long and successful history of use in relieving the symptoms of sinusitis, colds, fever and flu. Scientific studies have shown elderberry syrup and elderberry extracts can reduce flu symptoms and duration.[1]
“The antiviral activity of elderberry on influenza was strongest when used in pre-treatment, during infection and post-infection, rather than when used solely during infection. The study confirmed that elderberry exerts its antiviral activity on influenza through a number of mechanisms of action, including suppressing the entry of the virus into cell, modulating the post-infectious phase, and preventing viral transmission to other cells.”[2]
Not only is elderberry a potent antiviral used for flu, but these dark berries are also exceptionally rich in iron, potassium, beta carotene, Vitamin C, and the flavonoid quercetin, an antioxidant that scavenges free radicals that cause cell damage.
So, don’t wait for the flu or any other virus to come knocking at your door. Be prepared now.
Use my Elderberry Spritzer recipe to get this highly beneficial berry into your body in the most delicious ways before, during, and after the flu (or any other virus that shall remain unnamed)!
- 1 tbsp. elderberry oxymel or elderberry syrup
- 8 oz Elderberry flavored Tonic or other flavored seltzer water
- 1 sprig of thyme
- Lime
- Put all of the ingredients into a glass with ice.
- Garnish with thyme and lime.
- Enjoy!
[2] https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/blog/elderberry%E2%80%99s-anti-viral-activity-update
Andrea Beaman is an internationally renowned Holistic Health Coach, Natural Foods Chef, Speaker, Herbalist and best-selling author. Named one of the top 100 Most Influential Health and Fitness Experts, she is also a recipient of the Natural Gourmet Institute’s Award for Excellence in Health-Supportive Education and a Health Leadership award from The Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Since 1999, Andrea has been teaching people how to harness the body’s own preventative and healing powers using food, herbal remedies and alternative medicine.
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