Originally published December 8 2008
Elderberry is an Effective Treatment for Colds and Flu
by Jo Hartley
(NaturalNews) Elderberry is gaining popularity as an effective supplement for fighting colds and flus. Elderberry is primarily recognized as providing natural support for the immune system. Elderberry contains concentrated amounts of vitamin C, flavinoids, fruit acids, and anthocyanic pigments. It is also an excellent source for vitamins A and B and may also have antiviral properties.
Elderberry is a common, shrubby tree that produces white flowers in early summer. Following the blossoms, deep wine-colored berries become ripe in the fall. Native Americans used the flower water (from the blossoms) for eye and skin lotions and the berries were used for jams, pies, teas, and wines. Elderberry wine was common in Colonial America and the elderberry was even called "the country medicine chest" because of its many uses.
There is new evidence concluding that Elderberries have great value in fighting flu and other similar viruses. Elderberry has an ability to help break fevers because it promotes profuse sweating.
The list of attributes that Elderberry boasts is impressive. Elderberry works as a simple cleanser and also as an antioxidant. It is also a diuretic, an anti-inflammatory, an anti-catarrhal, and can act as a mild laxative. This useful herb can be used for bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, sore throats, fevers, influenza, neuralgia, rheumatism, sciatica, skin disorders, and even hay fever.
Elderberry's use as a flu remedy dates back to ancient Roman times. Typically, Elderberry consumption will improve flu symptoms within three days. Elderberry has been proven effective against eight different strains of influenza. This fact alone gives it a stronger record than any synthetic vaccine being offered at a clinic this winter. In addition, laboratory studies on Elderberry concerning HIV, herpes, and Epstein-Barr viruses have all had positive results.
To effectively utilize Elderberry, make a tea with 3 to 5 grams of the dried flowers steeped in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. This may be taken three times a day. Liquid Elderberry extract can be taken twice a day. The dosages are 5 ml (for children) and 10 ml (for adults). Between 20 and 60 drops of a tincture may be taken two or three times a day.
One caution - the leaves and stems of Elderberry are considered slightly toxic if they are ingested in raw form. There are no other known adverse reactions, however. There is also no evidence of other drug interactions with Elderberry.
Elderberry has proven itself in many studies to successfully reduce the viral impact of cold and flu viruses. It also works as a gentle cleanser and supports longevity as a tonic. This is actually where it got the name "Elder." Hippocrates even promoted elderberry as an all purpose tonic. Elderberry can be purchased in the vitamin/herb sections of many supermarkets and drugstores.
About the author
Jo Hartley
Wife, Mother of 8, and Grandmother of 2
Jo is a 41 year old home educator who has always gravitated toward a natural approach to life. She enjoys learning as much as possible about just about anything!
http://loftymatters.com - Current Events
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