 7 BENEFITS OF ELDERBERRY SYRUP by Balance Team Elderberry and its syrup derivative have been vastly explored as a natural remedy for various health conditions, including the flu, a cold, and diabetes. Learn more on the berry compelling elderberry benefits, along with how to prepare a delectable elderberry syrup. Coming from the Sambucus plant, elderberry and its syrup derivative have been vastly explored as a natural remedy for various health conditions, including the flu, a cold, and diabetes. Learn more on the berry compelling elderberry benefits, along with how to prepare a delectable elderberry syrup! ELDERBERRY AND ELDERBERRY SYRUP BENEFITS Elderberry syrup uses are variable and diverse, including topping onto waffles and pancakes, mixing into teas, or using solely for these medicinal purposes: 1. Fights the Flu While elderberry may not prevent the flu, it may be an effective treatment option if you got hit with the virus. Research shows the use of elderberry could shorten the duration of flu by about three to four days, along with lessening symptom severity if taken within the first 24 hours of having the flu. When it comes to recommended dosages, WebMD suggests one tablespoon (15 milliliters) of a specific elderberry juice-containing syrup (Sambucol by Nature’s Way) has been taken four times daily for three to five days, while a specific lozenge (ViraBLOC by HerbalScience) containing 175 milligrams of elderberry extract has been taken four times daily for two days. 2. Reduces Cold Duration Along with being a supportive agent against the flu, elderberry is well-known in its fight against the cold, particularly related to its vitamin A and C content. In fact, a 2016 research article published in Nutrients found a significant reduction of cold duration and severity in air travelers. Travelers using elderberry starting 10 days before travel until four to five days after arriving overseas experienced, on average, a two-day shorter duration of the cold and also noticed a reduction in cold symptoms. 3. Manages Diabetes The berry has been traditionally explored in its treatment of diabetes, with evidence published in the Journal of Nutrition demonstrating the presence of insulin-releasing and insulin-like activity in the proclaimed anti-diabetic plant, Sambucus nigra. 4. Promotes Mental Health Extracts from an elder plant have shown to act as a natural antidepressant source. Though more research is still warranted in elderberry’s role in mental health, there is no denying pouring elderberry syrup atop a short stack is sure to crack a smile… 5. Acts as A Natural Diuretic Diuretics increase the amount of water and salt expelled from the body in the form of urine and are mostly used to treat high blood pressure. There has been some indication elderberry offers diuretic properties, along with acting as a laxative in the treatment against constipation. 6. Supports Skin Health Elderberries have shown to support skin health thanks to its anthocyanin content, or the compound that gifts berries’ vibrant color. Anthocyanins have shown to combat the internal consequences of natural aging, therefore improving the external appearance of skin tone and glow. Elderberry is also a rich source of vitamins A and C, each showing to moisture the skin and maintain its integrity. 7. Reduces Inflammation Elderberry displays numerous anti-inflammatory activities, particularly related to its anthocyanin and vitamins A and C contents. Inflammation has shown to be the root of many chronic diseases, which may label elderberry as a contender against the fight against cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. HOW TO MAKE ELDERBERRY SYRUP Recipe: 1 c. Elderberry (Whole Berries) 1 Cinnamon Stick (Whole) or 1/4 tsp. Ground Cinnamon Opt. 1" piece Fresh Ginger, sliced 2 c. Spring Water 1/2 c. Raw Honey*, Monkfruit Sugar or Raw Cane Sugar Opt. 1/4 c. Bourbon Whiskey Cheesecloth or Milk Bag (*Advisory Kids Health.org : It is recommended that "babies younger than 1 year old should not be given honey. Clostridium bacteria that cause infant botulism usually thrive in soil and dust. ... As kids get older, they can have honey because their mature digestive systems move the Clostridium bacteria spores through the body before they can cause harm". Directions: In a medium-size pan, combine elderberries and water. Bring to a rolling boil. Reduce heat. Add ginger and cinnamon and stir. Simmer for 30 mins uncovered. Remove from heat and allow mixture to steep for 1 hour. Remove cinnamon stick and ginger pieces. Allow to cool for 20 mins. Place cheesecloth or milk bag over a 4 cup glass measuring cup or glass bowl. Pour entire contents of pan into cheesecloth. Use hands to gve a slight twist to the top of the cheesecloth or bag to prevent contents from seeping through the top. Gently squeeze the bag, allowing the liquid to be expressed and into the bowl. Once all the liquid has been removed, place the cheesecloth or bag with seeds into the sink. Do not rest on counter or surfaces, as the elderberries will cause a light-colored counter to stain. Add sweetener and stir until fully incorporated. Add optional whiskey. Store in a clean, sanitized jar with lid, in refrigerator up to 2 months. Servings: 1-2 tsp per day. 
 To order your complete copy of FEED: Living Food Recipes to be Made and Eaten with Love, CLICK HERE. Over 150 raw, vegan and vegetarian recipes.
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AuthorRegina Thomas Dillard is a certified chef, founder of Inner Sanctum Wellness, Regina Cooks Culinary School and the author of FEED: Living Food Recipes to be Made and Eaten with Love. Available softcover, digital download and Amazon. 
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