Treating colds and flu with elderberry
Canadian elderberry or Sambucus canadensis is well known in Nordic countries for its many uses in traditional medicine. Native to North America, with a taste somewhere between blackberry and blueberry, elderberry has been used for thousands of years to effectively relieve cold and flu symptoms.
Elderberry: its properties
Scientific research is focusing on the use of the flowers and berries of the black elderberry, an edible elderberry with many medicinal properties. Among other things, elderberry flowers and berries are used for :
Antimicrobial Numerous scientific studies have confirmed that elderberry has an antiviral and antibacterial effect. In fact, elderberry boosts immune defenses and fights colds, influenza type A and B, as well as certain streptococci. Studies have also reported that people who regularly consume elderberry after contracting a cold or flu recover more quickly, in four days less, than those who do not. In addition to reducing healing time, elderberry soothes the symptoms of fever, headaches, nasal congestion and aches and pains.
Mucolytic Elderberry regulates mucus secretion and reduces inflammation of mucous membranes. As a decongestant, it clears the ear, nose and throat (ENT) tract to prevent sinusitis, otitis and recurrent rhinitis. Elderberry is also used to clear bronchial tubes, and can prevent the need for antibiotics in cases of bronchitis. But you need to act quickly, as soon as the first symptoms appear, and maintain treatment for the next 10 days.
Diaphoretic (promotes perspiration): Elderberry's diaphoretic action accelerates recovery from a viral or flu-like condition accompanied by fever, while supporting this natural immune process. Elderberry therefore soothes fever symptoms, without eliminating them.
Antioxidant : Elderberry's antioxidant power is two to three times greater than that of blueberries. Elderberry owes these benefits to polyphenols, powerful antioxidant compounds found in its berries, well known for boosting the immune system. Polyphenols are also known to help prevent diseases such as cancer, inflammatory, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
Elderberry: Usage and use
Elderberry is a safe and effective remedy for the whole family. It is often used with infants and young children, for whom the naturally sweet taste of the remedy makes it easier to take and easier to follow. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) does not comment on the safety of elderberry for pregnant and breast-feeding women, some botanical references indicate that elderberry poses no danger to their health.
To take full advantage of the benefits of elderberryTo reap the full benefits of elderberry, you need to act quickly and continue taking it for several days. As soon as the first symptoms appear, take several repeated doses to support the immune system and increase the body's anti-infectious process. Elderberry can be taken in several forms, including :
Syrup : Elderberry syrup is the most popular product on the therapeutic elderberry market. Some manufacturers mix it with other antimicrobial or expectorant herbs for a better decongestant effect. Follow the dosage recommended by the manufacturer, taking care to obtain a minimum of 4 daily doses.
Mother tincture : As soon as the first symptoms appear, take 15 drops 6 times a day. Thereafter, adjust the dose to 45 drops 4 times a day. To treat pregnant women and babies, be sure to opt for a mother tincture preserved in glycerine.
Gargle : Decoct 50 g elderflower in 1 liter boiling water. Leave to simmer for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat and continue infusing until the liquid reaches room temperature. Use the decoction to gargle the mouth and throat 4-6 times a day.
Bath: In young children who respond less well to oral remedies, an elderberry bath is recommended. Infuse ¼ cup elderflowers in 2 liters of water for ten minutes to make an herbal tea. Add this infusion to the baby's bath and leave the baby to soak for a minimum of thirty minutes. Repeat every day.
À La Boite à Grainswe have elderberry products from local farmers. Stop by our store and we'll be happy to recommend the elderberry product that's right for you.
About the author
Naturopaths of La Boite à Grains
Team of licensed and certified naturopaths (ND) in Gatineau, Outaouais.
Original article written by Véronique Cousineau, Naturopath