Elderberry: Medicine Chest Tree
Elder
Botanical Name: Sambucus Nigra
Shorten your spring cold with Elderberry!
If there's one cold and flu remedy to keep on hand, it's Elder. Studies show elderberries can cut recovery time from the flu in half while the elderflowers bring fast sinus relief when used as a tea.
Known as the "Medicine Chest Tree", almost every part - berries, flowers, leaves, and bark - has been used as medicine for centuries.
Elderberry: Nature And History
Elder has long been revered. In folklore, even Christ's cross was said to be made of elder wood. With its tall, straight trunk and wide canopy, standing beneath an Elder tree feels protective - much like its action in the body.
What We Use in Elder Herbs
Elderflowers: Excellent for easing sinus congestion, stuffy heads, and colds. Combined with yarrow and elderberries, they make a powerful cold and flu tea. A strong brew can quickly open nasal passages and relieve headaches. They'll also create a diuretic effect on the bladder and help encourage urine flow.
Elderberries: Small, dark purple berries with a tart sweetness. When made into syrup, they become a family staple through winter and should be given at the first sign of illness to fight infection and reduce the length and severity of a cold or flu. Elderberry syrup is famous for a reason: it works.
What Science Tells About Elderberries
There's a 2002 clinical trial studied 60 patients with influenza A. Those who took elderberry syrup 4 times daily recovered within 2–3 days, while the placebo group saw no improvement until Day 6 and needed more daily painkillers and nasal sprays.
“Make Your Own” Elderberry Syrup Herbal Recipe
Ingredients:
250g dried elderberries
800ml water
250g sugar (or honey)
Muslin or cheesecloth, sieve, 1L jug
Method:
Simmer your berries in the water for 40 mins. Mash them lightly.
Strain through muslin into a jug with sugar, squeezing well. Return to pan, simmer 5 minutes, and cool slightly.
Bottle in sterilised glass. Store in a cool place; refrigerate once opened.
Keep a bottle ready in your kitchen - nature's way of helping you recover faster, breathe easier, and stay strong through cold season.
If you want a customised herbal solution personally made for you, feel free to send me a message here and let’s discuss about the details.