Edible elderberries are a great source of adding nutrients and antioxidants to your diet. These tiny purple fruits are taken from the Sambucus Nigra tree. The plant is decorated with clusters of tiny blue or black elderberries with small white elderflowers, which is a treat for not only your eyes but your health.

 

However, identifying the edible type is the key. It is best if elderberries are consumed in the cooked form to avoid their toxicities and side effects. Elderberries are also consumed in the form of tea or supplements like elderberry gummies or elderberry syrup. It is also an essential ingredient in many jam recipes, juice recipes, chutney and pie recipes, and elderberry wine. 

 

Native Americans and herbalists from Europe have been using elderberries as medicines to treat many diseases and illnesses. Elderberries are also good for giving the immune system a boost. Nevertheless, they should be consumed in limited quantities as an overdose can be dangerous. 

 

Health Benefits of Elderberries

 

Elderberries have so many health benefits that they can be rightly viewed as nature’s gift to us. The fruit of the elderberry tree is used in syrups, preserves, and tinctures, and its bark is used in medicine due to its laxative properties. Elderberry flower aids in skin health and is a great source to break a fever. In contrast, the stem and the plant leaves are poisonous and are used to produce insect repellents. 

 

Following are the common health benefits of elderberries:

 

  • Fight cold and Flu virus: The antiviral and antibacterial properties of elderberries make them a good medication for treating cold and flu, and other respiratory illnesses. 
  • Modulates Inflammation: Elderberries are proven to help boost the immune system and stimulates inflammation. However, if the immune system performs at its peak, it doesn’t stimulate too much of an immune boost, causing harm. Instead, it only modulates and brings immunity up to the mark. Therefore, it keeps immunity from getting out of control.
  • Rich in Nutrients: Cooked elderberries are safe to eat and are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and nutrients, making them an ideal meal for providing essential nutrients to your body. 
  • Help in blood Pressure: Elderberries have a good impact on the fat and cholesterol levels of the body. It helps in controlling blood pressure.

 

Are Elderberries Safe?

 

Studies have proven that elderberries become safe by cooking. Raw elderberries have been reported to contain cyanide which can cause many side effects such as diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. However, according to nutritionists, fresh berries can cause symptoms that can be avoided using dried elderberries. 

 

How to Consume Elderberries

 

You could use elderberries at home in several recipes. Elderberries are very versatile in this regard. They can be made into tea, tinctures, syrups, gummies, pills, juices, etc. The distinct tart-like sweet and sour taste makes them perfect for use in many recipes and gives a strong flavor to your recipe. 

For gaining maximum health benefits through elderberries, it can be consumed through the following ways:

  • Homemade Syrup

A homemade syrup can be prepared and used as a complementary addition to many food items. This syrup is especially good for giving the immune system a much-needed boost. It is ideal for use over pancakes and is loved by children and adults alike.  

  • Homemade Tincture

Homemade elderberry tincture is great for the treatment of cough, common cold, flu, and sinusitis. It also reduces cholesterol damage and acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body

  • Elderberry Tea

Elderberry tea contains proteins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Consumption of elderberry tea can lower the blood sugar level and stimulate the metabolism of glucose. It also reduces symptoms of cold and flu and provides your body with essential nutrients and antioxidants.

  • Other Culinary Uses

Dried elderberries can be sprinkled on muffins or pancakes to enhance flavor and bring many health benefits to the meal. They are not as sweet as blueberries and are perfect for use over a desert.  

  • Elderberry Gummies

Elderberry gummies are a fun and convenient way to consume elderberries. Elderberry gummies are the most popular form of elderberry supplements and can be bought and prepared at home. These gummies aid in the reduction of inflammation and increase immune system strength. This, in turn, protects heart health and keeps stress levels low. 

Elderberry gummies are easy to store and can last in the refrigerator for up to six months. They are full of the supply of vitamins and antioxidants. Elderberry gummies can be taken regularly for up to five days safely. Discontinue use after five days and give a gap before resuming continuous use of elderberry gummies. 

 

Besides the above-mentioned elderberry recipes, elderberry jam can also be prepared, which is a good addition to your diet. Thus, elderberry consumption can make you experience some very amazing health benefits.