Hello, August! Time to roll out the red carpet for our herb of the month: elderberry! You may think these berries are just winter’s best friend, but they are your immune system helpers all year round. Packed with flavor and a hefty dose of health benefits, elderberries are the ultimate secret weapon for your natural wellness arsenal.
So let’s take a look at why elderberry is August’s superstar, and don’t miss our great elderberry syrup recipe at the end!
Meet Elderberry: nature’s wild child
Say hello to Sambucus nigra L., the European elder, the dazzling diva of the Caprifoliaceae family. This plant is not just a shrub or tree; it is the botanical equivalent of a rockstar, turning heads from Europe to North America. Standing between four feet and 25 feet tall, Elderberry knows how to make an entrance.
With sturdy stems (yes, spicy!), pairs of compound leaves and clusters of cream-colored flowers that can make any floral arrangement jealous, elderberry has style. And when those flowers turn into vibrant red, blue or purple berries, it’s like nature’s version of confetti. Find them near rivers, streams, forests or even in your backyard: elderberries are always ready for close-ups.
A little history: the legendary knowledge of elderberry
Elderberry isn’t just a health hero; it has been the star of ancient folklore for centuries. If you mess with an elderberry, you can anger some supernatural beings – at least that’s what the legends say. In the past, people hung elder branches around their doors to keep witches away. So this plant was not just for medicine; it was your personal bodyguard.
The name Sambucus refers to the elder’s musical past (ever heard of a harp made from elder wood?), while ‘elder’ comes from the Anglo-Saxon word æld, meaning ‘fire’. People even used hollow elder stems to start fires – talk about versatility! Written accounts of elderberry’s medicinal properties date back to the 5th century. Hippocrates, Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder were all fans!
Elderberry Today: Your Immune System’s BFF
Fast forward to today, and elderberries are still flexing their immune-boosting muscles. Packed with flavonoids and anthocyanins, these small but mighty berries are not only a feast for the eyes, but also serious health allies. They relieve congestion, soothe respiratory irritation, and keep your heart happy too!
Include elderberries in your diet (it’s easier than you think!)
Adding elderberries to your diet is as easy as it is delicious. Here’s how to get started:
- Elderberry Smoothies: Mix elderberries into your morning smoothie for a vibrant, immune-boosting blend. Combine with spinach, chia seeds and almond milk and you have a powerful breakfast.
- Elderberry tea: Brew a comforting cup of elderberry tea. Add honey for a sweet taste and let the inflammation-soothing properties work their magic on your sore throat.
- Elderberry Gummies: Who Says Gummies Are Only for Kids? Make your own elderberry gummies for a fun, healthy treat. Plus, they’re a hit with everyone, regardless of age!
- Elderberry jam: Spread a little elderberry jam on toast, stir it into yogurt or use it as a pastry filling. It’s like a health boost and a treat all in one.
- Elderberry syrup: Make homemade elderberry syrup with our simple recipe. Sprinkle it over pancakes, mix it into oatmeal or take it directly for a daily immune boost.
[[ recipeID=recipe-8lzkd7lqg, title=Elderberry Syrup Recipe: DIY Wellness in a Bottle ]]
Health Benefits of Elderberry: So Much More Than Just Immune Support
Elderberry isn’t just a one-trick pony; it’s a multitasking health wonder. Here’s why you need to make room for elderberries in your life:
- Immune Health: These berries are bursting with vitamins A, B and C. They are like a health cocktail that supports your immune system while fighting free radicals. Elderberry’s free radical scavenging superpowers are the secret weapon against the symptoms of colds and flu. And guess what? They also taste delicious!
- Heart Health: The anthocyanins in elderberries are not only beautiful, they resemble little heart-shaped superheroes that improve circulation and soothe the inflammatory response. Whether it’s supporting endothelial function or giving your blood vessels some extra attention, elderberry takes care of your cardiovascular health.
- Respiratory Health: Do you suffer from cough or congestion? Elderberry has your back. Traditionally used to tackle colds and flu, elderberry helps soothe nagging symptoms and control your respiratory system.
Rebecca Younger is passionate about herbs and women’s health. She strives to plant seeds of inspiration within her community about plant medicine and healthier ways of living. She studied herbal medicine at Herbalism Roots in Denver and is a certified Doula through the Matrona Foundation. She is the brand communications specialist at WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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