Thirsty Thursday - April 9, 2020

The Benefits of Elderberry

Elderberry or Sambucus nigra is a hot topic right now. With all of the Corona Virus fears and a push to build up your immune system, I receive many questions about the use and safety of it.

Elderberry is a native tree in Europe but is widely grown in other parts of the world. Varieties include black elder also known as European elderberry, American elder, dwarf elder, blue elderberry, danewort, red-fruited elder and antelope brush. The Sambucus nigra or black elder can grow up to 30 feet tall and produces clusters of small white or or off-white flowers. These flowers can be eaten raw or cooked. They can be used fresh in a salad or boiled with sugar to make a sweet syrup or infused into tea. Traditionally, flowers and the leaves have been used for pain relief to reduce swelling and lessen inflammation. Cooked berries can be made into pies, jams, juice or even chutney or elderberry wine. Dried berries or the juice of the berries have been used to treat influenza, headaches, heart, dental and nerve pain and sciatica, as well as being used as a laxative and diuretic.

All of these varieties are used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Please note that the berries bark and leaves are poisonous, please do not used without knowledge of the plant or use uncooked.

Elderberry plants are the one of the most commonly used plants in the world.

Traditionally, Native Americans used it to treat infections, while the ancient Egyptians used it to improve their complexions and heal burns. It’s still gathered and used by herbalist and the medical community across many parts of the world.

Today, elderberry is most often taken as a supplement to treat cold and flu symptoms.

There are many reported benefits of elderberries. They are highly nutritious loaded with vitamin C and dietary fiber but, they also are a good source of phenolic acid, flavonols and antocyanins. These compounds remove oxidative stress, act as anti-inflammatory support and are loaded with antioxidants.

Some other health benefits from the consumption of elderberries may be better heart health, lower blood pressure, lowering uric acid associated with inflammation in the joints, may help in fighting certain cancers, increased urination, protection from harmful UV rays, lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels.

Those who have had diuretic complications or symptoms made worse could have underlying stomach/digestive weakness and could be reacting to the lectins found in the bark, unripe berries and seeds. The seeds also have a cyanogenic glycoside which release cyanide in some circumstances. But please don't panic, apricot seeds and almonds also carry this toxin. If you are collecting the flowers or berries yourself, ensure that you have correctly identified the plant as American or European elderberry, as other types of elderberry may be more toxic. Also, be sure to remove any bark or leaves before use.

Risks and side effects are minimal if used properly, there are no reported deaths from elderberry consumption, but like all things, you must know what you are using, learn the benefits and the risk associated with it. Seek out a trained professional and do your research. Remember that more is not always better and that moderation is key to life and health. Scripturally speaking in 1 Corinthians 6: 12 (NKJV) it says “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

Wishing you a blessed Easter weekend.

Dr. Carol

For Educational purposes only. Not for diagnoses, treatment or cure.