Elderberry: Top 5 Health Benefits

Elderberry, a flowering plant of the Adoxaceae family (from the European elder tree), consists of dark, purple tart berries which must be cooked before eating. It also has small, white flowers that can be eaten raw or cooked. The plant has been used throughout history for many medicinal purposes, including helping combat influenza and building up a resilient immune system. Curious? Read on for these Top 5 Health Benefits of Elderberry!

1. Packed Full of Nutrients

Elderberries are packed with Vitamins A and C, two essential organic compounds to help maintain a healthy body. Vitamin A aids the body’s natural defence against infection, whilst Vitamin C, an ascorbic acid, ensures healthy cells, bones, skin and blood vessels. The high level of flavonoids present in the berries can also reduce joint and muscular pain with their anti-inflammatory properties, whilst its antioxidants prevent long-term disease.

2. Excellent Source of Fibre

Elderberries are a great source of fibre, supporting healthy bowel movement and control of blood sugar levels in the body. The high fibre content can help reduce constipation and optimise digestive health.

3. Immune System-Boosting Properties

Elderberries have long been used to fight off infection and illnesses with their high nutritional compounds. They have been found to reduce flu-like symptoms whilst increasing the immune system efficiency. They are often used in supplement form of lozenges, capsules and syrups.

4. Potent Remedy for Skin Problems

With their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as mentioned above, elderberries are also great for the skin. They are used in many skin products to reduce acne, swelling and soreness, due to their antiseptic benefits. They are also thought to be a good preventative measure for wrinkles!

5. Combats Stress

High levels of vitamins and those antioxidant heroes make, elderberries great for reducing stress and maintaining a healthy heart. They can also help keep cholesterol low whilst protecting the heart. They also make for a great evening tea, relaxing the nerves and inducing a pleasant sleepy state.

Elderberries, with their delectable fragrance and taste also make for great conserves in the kitchen, ie., jams, juices, chutney and teas. Have you taken elderberry for medicinal reasons over any length of time? What effects did you notice and in what form did you take it? Let us know in the comments below, and join in the conversation on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.

Grab more quick and useful health insights and tips in these other Top 5 articles to learn more and also encourage you to KEEP YOUR Fit ON in 2020 (remember around Xmas 2019, you said you would)!

Cordelia Aspinall

Cordelia has recently graduated from the University of Bristol, and is currently a Freelance Writer with a burning interest in health and fitness. She's a running addict, a yoga bunny and Zumba enthusiast who loves cooking and trying out new recipes. For her, life is all about happiness and she strongly believes that a healthy lifestyle is all about balance -go for a run then eat that cake! She also advocates the benefits of exercise on your physical and mental health as a great way to clear your head whilst challenging yourself. Her next goal: the London Marathon!

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