Get ready for Autumn and Winter Health - time to top up on your immunity
The weather has changed, the temperatures have dropped, and evenings are noticeably drawing in. With the warmth of the sun being just in the middle of the day now, it is time to consider keeping yourself healthy through the chillier months ahead. Planning now, will help you to make a different to your immunity.
If you look at the hedge rows right now, you will notice they are bountiful with berries. In this article we explore the healing power of elderberries (do make sure you are certain of what you are foraging, as not all berries are edible).
Elderberry, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra, has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for boosting immunity and fighting off colds and flu. These small, dark purple berries are packed with nutrients and powerful antioxidants that can support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health. But before you reach to eat one, please don't, they are really potent and best used in a tincture or syrup as a medicine. There is a recipe at the end of this article.
Elderberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals that can damage cells. This antioxidant property helps reduce oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic diseases and aging. Flavonoids in elderberry also support cardiovascular health and may help protect against certain forms of cancer by reducing inflammation.
Elderberry is widely known for its ability to boost the immune system, particularly in fighting off viral infections. Elderberry contains anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid, that has been shown to have antiviral properties. Studies have found that elderberry can shorten the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms when taken at the onset of the illness.
Elderberry works by inhibiting the ability of viruses to infect cells, making it harder for viruses like the flu to spread within the body. It also increases the production of cytokines, proteins that help regulate the immune response, ensuring a quicker recovery.
In addition to supporting immunity, elderberries also have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation can weaken the immune system and contribute to various health issues, including heart disease and autoimmune conditions. Elderberries help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory compounds.
Elderberries are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and B6, and potassium all of which are essential for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C, in particular, is known to help prevent infections and enhance the function of immune cells.
Elderberry Tincture Recipe
A great way to incorporate elderberry into your daily routine is by making an elderberry tincture. This concentrated form of elderberry can be stored for extended periods and taken daily to support immunity.
Ingredients
Instructions
To Use (for adults):
Take 1-2 teaspoons of the elderberry tincture daily for immune support, or up to 3 times daily at the onset of cold or flu symptoms.
The weather has changed, the temperatures have dropped, and evenings are noticeably drawing in. With the warmth of the sun being just in the middle of the day now, it is time to consider keeping yourself healthy through the chillier months ahead. Planning now, will help you to make a different to your immunity.
If you look at the hedge rows right now, you will notice they are bountiful with berries. In this article we explore the healing power of elderberries (do make sure you are certain of what you are foraging, as not all berries are edible).
Elderberry, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra, has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for boosting immunity and fighting off colds and flu. These small, dark purple berries are packed with nutrients and powerful antioxidants that can support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health. But before you reach to eat one, please don't, they are really potent and best used in a tincture or syrup as a medicine. There is a recipe at the end of this article.
Elderberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals that can damage cells. This antioxidant property helps reduce oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic diseases and aging. Flavonoids in elderberry also support cardiovascular health and may help protect against certain forms of cancer by reducing inflammation.
Elderberry is widely known for its ability to boost the immune system, particularly in fighting off viral infections. Elderberry contains anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid, that has been shown to have antiviral properties. Studies have found that elderberry can shorten the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms when taken at the onset of the illness.
Elderberry works by inhibiting the ability of viruses to infect cells, making it harder for viruses like the flu to spread within the body. It also increases the production of cytokines, proteins that help regulate the immune response, ensuring a quicker recovery.
In addition to supporting immunity, elderberries also have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation can weaken the immune system and contribute to various health issues, including heart disease and autoimmune conditions. Elderberries help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory compounds.
Elderberries are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and B6, and potassium all of which are essential for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C, in particular, is known to help prevent infections and enhance the function of immune cells.
Elderberry Tincture Recipe
A great way to incorporate elderberry into your daily routine is by making an elderberry tincture. This concentrated form of elderberry can be stored for extended periods and taken daily to support immunity.
Ingredients
- 1 cup elderberries (fresh or dried)
- 2 cups vodka or brandy (at least 80 proof)
- A clean glass jar with a lid
- If you want to make this alcohol free (for alcohol free adults and for children) replace the alcohol with 1 cup water and 1 cup vegetable glycerine.
Instructions
- Prepare the elderberries: If using fresh elderberries, make sure to remove the stems and rinse them thoroughly. If using dried elderberries, they are ready to use as is.
- Fill the jar: Place the elderberries in the glass jar, filling it about halfway.
- Add the alcohol: Pour vodka or brandy over the elderberries until the jar is almost full, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
- Seal and store: Secure the lid tightly, then shake the jar to mix the berries and alcohol. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking it every few days. You will observe the alcohol take on the pigment of the berries.
- Strain and bottle: After 4-6 weeks, strain the mixture using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, discarding the berries. Pour the tincture into a clean bottle and store it in a cool, dark place.
- LABEL CLEARLY WITH WHAT YOU HAVE MADE AND THE DATE MADE
To Use (for adults):
Take 1-2 teaspoons of the elderberry tincture daily for immune support, or up to 3 times daily at the onset of cold or flu symptoms.
Of course, make sure you label your creation clearly, with date you started it (ie added the berries to the alcohol) and also, when you strain and decant it, label it clearly when it was made.
Store in a safe, dry, dark place away from children, and use respectfully for your body to keep well.
Store in a safe, dry, dark place away from children, and use respectfully for your body to keep well.
This article does not replace medical advice, always seek professional support.
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