The Elderberry—a Natural 'Medicine Chest'
The “Miracle Fruit” of the Millenia
Elderberry, Sambucus nigra, European elder. This berry of many names has a long history of use as a healing plant across the world. Even Hippocrates, the “Father of Modern Medicine,” referred to this plant as a “medicine chest” in 400 B.C.E.
What's So Special About the Elderberry?
A Nutritional Powerhouse
What makes these berries so special? For starters, they are packed with nutrients. Elderberries are great sources of Vitamin C and Dietary Fiber, plus they contain several different antioxidants. On top of that, they’re low in calories and fat.
- 870 mg of vitamin A
- 406 mg of potassium
- 52.2 mg of vitamin C
- 9 mg of folate
- 55 mg of calcium
- 2.32 mg of iron Barrell, Amanda. “Health Benefits of Elderberry.”
A Natural Flu-Fighter
Another reason elderberries are growing in popularity, especially around cold and flu season, is their ability to support the immune system. Recent studies at the University of Sydney have proven this to be true. Dr. Golnoosh Torabian said, “What our study has shown is that the common elderberry has a potent direct antiviral effect against the flu virus…It inhibits the early stages of an infection by blocking key viral proteins responsible for both the viral attachment and entry into the host cells.”
In another study, patients aged 18-54 were given elderberry to help relieve influenza-like symptoms. After a 5 day trial, the team found that “(s)ymptoms were relieved on average 4 days earlier and use of rescue medication was significantly less in those receiving elderberry extract compared with placebo. Elderberry extract seems to offer an efficient, safe and cost-effective treatment for influenza.”
The University of Sydney is not alone in these studies, however. Researchers and scientists across the globe are fascinated by this amazing fruit and all of its beneficial properties. That’s why we at Purely Beneficial have created Elderberry 750, a powerful way to utilize all of the valuable assets of the fruit without having to grow your own.
Stay healthy this holiday season!
