Elderberry - one of the most efficient immunostimulating herbs!
Elderberry’s immunostimulating properties have been known for thousands of years. It provides powerful protection against bacteria and infections, has energizing effect and increases power, reduces the risk of diabetes, improves digestion and metabolic processes, and provokes healthy loss of weight, strengthens the blood vessels and reduces blood pressure …
Elderberry is widely spread in Europe and Northern America, and some varieties are grown even in Australia. Its small berries are black or dark blue and have very sweet taste, which makes them very attractive for the preparation of various desserts, syrups, jams, jellies, even cocktail drinks. In some parts of the world, the fruits of the elderberry are used to make wine.
Nutritional value of elderberry.
Elderberry contains a powerful selection of useful nutrients, including iron, potassium, phosphorus, copper, as well as vitamins А, В and С, proteins, fibres, organic compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect, etc.
Benefits for the digestive system.
The daily consumption of fruit and vegetables is absolutely a must if you want to obtain sufficient fibres. Only about two handfuls of the elderberry fruits, however, cover more than 40% of the daily need of fibres. They are rich in dietary fibres, which regulate the digestive process, eliminate constipation, reduce excessive gases and facilitate the suction of useful nutrients in the intestines.
Benefits for the cardiovascular system.
The high contents of fibres in the elderberry fruits contribute to the removal of excess cholesterol and the increase of the production of ‘good’ cholesterol, which the body needs to function normally. This on its turn reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. High levels of potassium in elderberry protect the heart by reducing the pressure in the blood vessels and arteries. Due to its vessel-enlargement effect, potassium contributes for the reduction of blood pressure and maintenance of healthy heart.
Benefits for the respiratory system.
In case of sneezing and soar throat, bronchitis, cold or any other problem with the respiratory system, elderberry concentrate may be the best therapy to relieve the symptoms. Bioflavonoids and anthocyanins in elderberry soothe the inflammation and act as expectorant. The concentrated elderberry syrup is strongly recommended in case of asthma.
Benefits for the immune system.
Due to its antibacterial and anti-infectious properties, the concentrated extract of elderberry reduces the risk of flu and relives the symptoms when the flu virus is already a fact.
Benefits for diabetes.
Some of the most active ingredients in elderberry have direct effect on pancreas thus contributing to the regulation of the levels of insulin and glucose.
Benefits for the bones.
Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances in elderberry soothe pain and inflammation, while the rich variety of minerals in its composition contribute to the strength of the bones and the development of new bone tissue. This is an excellent prevention against osteoporosis – more and more frequently-met disease, which millions of people around the world suffer. But the improvement of the bone density during the years of youth and adolescence may significantly retard and even stop probable development of osteoporosis in the future.
Benefits for the skin.
Bioflavonoids in the composition of elderberry play an important role for skin health and beauty. The antioxidating compounds in the plant, combined with the large quantity of Vitamin А, are the perfect means to achieve silky skin and reduce wrinkles and improve the shine and tonus of the biggest organ in the body!
Benefits for metabolism and healthy weight.
High levels of dietary fibres in elderberry in combination with solid vitamins and minerals accelerate metabolism, improve the function of the digestive tract, provoke the feeling of repletion and regulate body weight.