Elderberry - A Common Natural Cure

Elderberry - A Common Natural Cure

Elderberry - A Common Natural Cure

Elderberry is also known as elder and is a common natural cure used across the world. The black elder or Sambucus nigra is the plant most commonly used for medicinal purposes. This is a European variant of elder. Another variety, the Sambucus ebulus or the dwarf elder, is believed to be dangerous as it contains certain toxins. This dwarf variety has some chemicals with properties that are very similar to the deadly poison, cyanide. This is why elder or elderberry should only be ingested under supervision by an experienced and trustworthy practitioner. It is also why infusion of elder should not be bought or taken from unknown sources or pharmacies.

How is it Used?

The elder plant is found in many places across the U.S. although the shrub is native to Africa, Europe and some parts of the Asian continent. Both the white flowers of the elder shrub as well as the berries are used for medicinal purposes. The berries contain cyanide like substance and they must be carefully processed or cooked before being ingested to keep any adverse effects away.

Elderberry may be taken in the form of tablets or syrup. There are also elderberry lozenges available in the markets that are found quite effective in subduing the symptoms of flu when taken at the onset of the infection.

What are its Benefits

Elderberry is used commonly to combat cold and flu symptoms. It is highly effective in addressing respiratory problems, sinusitis and congestion. In fact, some studies have suggested that taking elderberry extract can cut short the severity and duration of a flu bout quite significantly. There is some evidence to suggest that even the H1N1 flu may be controlled to some extent by elderberry, but this is not yet proven with conclusive research.

Elderberry for the Elderly

For the elderly, this shrub has quite a few health benefits to offer. The detoxifying action that elderberries have is very helpful for the elderly in cleansing their bodies of toxins. This shrub helps the elderly lose weight in a natural way without taking medications that may lead to adverse side effects. The diuretic properties of elderberry are also very valuable for those older people who are looking for safe ways to lose weight.

The flower of the elder shrub has a wonderful restoring effect on wrinkled and aged skin. It improves skin tone and makes the person look younger. Bioflavonids in the elder flower increase circulation of blood and boost capillary strength which is particularly beneficial for older people.

There is also some evidence to prove that elderberry may be effective in dealing with arthritic pain. Other than this, oil in which elder flowers have been soaked prove very soothing when applied to achy muscles that are a common complaint for older people.

For elderly people who suffer from respiratory ailments and breathing problems, elder is a tried and tested remedy. It can be used to produce effective expectorants, it relieves respiratory distress by alleviating symptoms of congestion and also helps bring relief during asthma attacks.

Every part of the elder plant- the bark, flowers, leaves and berries can be used to remedy ailments and promote better health. This is why this shrub is used so commonly in elderly care.

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