There are various benefits of elderberry fruit for health. Of course, consuming eldeberries has a myriad of benefits in treating all types of diseases. There are various benefits of elderberry to be used as a supplement to treat colds and flu. Elderberry is a plant that is used for herbal medicine around the world both in America and Europe. Find out what elderberry contains, health benefits of elderberry, side effects, etc. Elderberry is a deep purple berry that comes from the elderberry bush. This small fruit contains various vitamins, minerals and nutrients that are good for your health.
Elderberry has long been used as
traditional medicine in various countries. Native Americans used it to prevent
infection, the ancient Egyptians used it to treat burns, and people in many
parts of Europe used this fruit for traditional medicine. As much as 80% of
this fruit contains water. Thus, this fruit is ideal for making juice, jam, and
jelly. This fruit is also rich in protein, dietary fiber to help the body's
digestive system. In addition, elderberry contains many vitamins and minerals
such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. Elderberry is also rich in
antioxidants which have anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and antiviral
properties for the body's immunity. Elderberry contains high levels of
antioxidants to ward off free radicals. Here are some of the benefits contained
in elderberry fruit:
1. Overcoming Cold and Flu Symptoms
Elderberry extract has long been trusted
for centuries as a traditional remedy for colds and flu that come from viral
infections. Elderberry contains antioxidants and antiviral effects, so many
manufacturers produce it into syrups, supplements, capsules, chewing gum, and
elderberry lozenges. Based on the study, 64 people with flu-like symptoms who
took lozenges containing 175 milligrams of elderberry extract 4 times a day for
2 days experienced improved symptoms of fever, dizziness, pain, nasal
congestion.
2. Maintaining Heart Health
Some people believe that elderberry fruit
extracts have a positive effect on heart health, blood vessels, and lower
cholesterol. Elderberry contains flavonoids and anthocyanins that have been
linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Based on the study, 34 people who were
given 400 mg of elderberry extract for two days experienced significantly lower
cholesterol levels, including levels in the liver and aorta. High cholesterol
can lead to heart problems.
3. Improve the Immune System
The next benefit of black elderberry is to
help boost the body's immune system. The immune system is the body's natural
protection against viruses, bacteria, or other harmful germs so you don't get
an infection or disease. Elderberry is rich in vitamin C which is the main
source of immunity. Based on research conducted on mice, the polyphenol content
in elderberry can increase white blood cell count and immune protection.
4. Overcoming Inflammation
The anthocyanins in elderberry are believed
to reduce the effects of inflammation on the body. This content can inhibit
nitric oxide which triggers inflammation in response to injury or disease. This
content is also believed to treat pain, swelling, toothache, cuts, bruises,
stiffness, or neuropathic pain. Even the ancient Egyptians used elderberry extract
to treat skin inflammation due to burns. Unfortunately, only a few studies have
revealed the benefits of elderberry for treating pain and inflammation.