Elderberries
occur in Australasia and South America. They
grow in clusters of small black, blue or red berries. These berries were used
in European folk medicine. Hippocrates called these elder berries as “medicine
chest.”
Elderberries are good for eyes, cough, colds, flu and bacterial and viral infections. In the
year 1995 elderberry juice was used to treat flu epidemic in panama.
Research proves
that elderberries are concentrated sources of anthocyanins. The anthocyanins
enrich immunity by boosting production of cytokines. These cytokines are proteins
which help regulate immune response.
The elderberry
extract reduces oxidation of LDL cholesterol. The oxidation process leads to
cardiovascular diseases. Studies have proved that elderberries help in weight
loss, improve blood pressure and have a positive effect on the physical and
emotional state of the people.
It is
beneficial if you take about 10 ounces of elderberry juice per day. Too much of
anything is bad larger doses will cause diarrhea. If you are pregnant it would
be very wise to consult your doctor before taking any medicine. The tannins
present in elderberries may interfere with iron absorption. Besides there is
lack of research studies in this area it would be wise not to drink it if you
are pregnant.
Take care,
Swarnam
Information
sources; herbwisdom.com, nutraingredients.com, livestrong.com
