Elderberries are celebrated for the various health benefits they offer, especially for enhancing the immune system and promoting heart health.
They have been used for their medical properties for centuries. Even the ancient civilizations and the Indigenous communities used these berries to treat various conditions, such as fever and rheumatism. These people believed that elderberries can enhance the skin health, too.
Even today, they remain one of the key components of the traditional medicine.
Although the therapeutic properties of elderberries haven’t been researched into depth, there are a number of benefits they offer.
Rich in nutrients
Among the rest, elderberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins. At the same time, like most berries, they are low in calories but high in fiber. All of this helps boost the immune system.
Antioxidants
Their antioxidant properties make the elderberries the perfect fruit for fighting inflammation, reducing the risk of a number of chronic diseases, and supporting cellular health.
May help against the cold and the flu
When it comes to fighting the flu, elderberries should be the first fruit to reach for, as their consumption reduces the severity and the duration of the infection.
Alternative medicine offers various syrups and capsules to help against the flu, with elderberries as the key component.
Good for the health of the heart
Research suggests that elderberries may offer heart health support by lowering blood fats and cholesterol. The flavonoids, such as anthocyanins, found in elderberries play a role in cardiovascular health and help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Helps eliminate harmful bacteria
Elderberries possess natural antimicrobial qualities that help in fighting harmful bacteria and infections. Their bioactive compounds help prevent pathogen growth and boost the body’s immune defenses.
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Helps fight cancer
These sweet berries that we all enjoy so much may be tiny, but they are powerful enough to help fight cancer. That’s all thanks to their ability to inhibit tumor growth and protect against DNA damage.
Can protect against UV rays
By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by sun exposure, elderberries may help protect the skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of premature aging and sunburn.
Immune system support
All of the vitamins and antioxidant properties elderberries contain may help in supporting the immune system. That is one the reasons why we should include them in our diet.
May help with depression
These berries contribute to the mental well-being, and with that, in the fight against depression.
May increase urination
Their diuretic properties make elderberries the perfect fruit to increase urine production and help flush out toxins from the body.
As with any fruit and food, we should consume elderberries in moderation.
Having them raw and in large quantities may affect the digestive system and even lead to poisoning because of certain toxic compounds they have.
