The Many Benefits of Elderberry
As this pandemic continues, I have noticed more people opening their minds to natural remedies for both sickness and immunity. Elderberry tops the chart in both instances. It’s so popular in fact, that elderberry syrup has even hit the shelves of many drug stores. (Though you’re better off making your own.) So what is elderberry exactly and what makes it so great?
Elderberry comes from the Sambucus plant. It is a dark purple fruit and a rich source of antioxidants known as anthocyanins. As an antioxidant, anthocyanin works by clearing the body of free radicals that damage cells. It also has antiviral properties that may prevent or reduce the severity of the flu or a cold.
Elderberry has been explored as a natural health remedy for years. It works as a preventative, or when taken in higher dosages, can shorten the duration of an illness and/or lessen symptoms. Adults should take one tablespoon, once a day of elderberry for preventative measures, or one tablespoon, 4 times daily if you’re already sick. Although I’m unsure if anyone with COVID-19 has actually put it to the test, you’ve got everything to gain and nothing to lose by starting a daily elderberry regimen to give your immune system a strong boost.
If elderberry syrup isn’t your thing (or you want an easy way to get your kids to take it too), I suggest trying your hand at elderberry gummies. Any type of elderberry product you see in the store is loaded with preservatives to keep it shelf-stable. To get maximum benefits without any junk or refined sugar, it’s best to make your own gummies.
You’ll need:
- Glass container or silicon molds
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
- 1 cup of elderberry syrup
- 1/4 cup gelatin powder*
- 1/2 cup hot (but not boiling) water
*I recommend a beef gelatin that is pasture-raised and grass-fed. Vital Proteins makes a great one.
Directions:
Grease molds or glass pan with coconut oil to prevent sticking. Place 1/4 cup of cooled elderberry syrup in a 2 cup measuring cup and quickly whisk in the gelatin powder. Add ½ cup of hot water and stir quickly until smooth. Add the rest of the elderberry syrup and stir or whisk until completely smooth again. Pour into molds and refrigerate for 2 hours or until completely firm. Pop out of molds and store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
Note: this will last up to 2 weeks or so in the fridge.
*recipe courtesy of Wellness Mama
