What is Black Elderberry?
Black Elderberry is one of the most popular medicinal plants in the world. Hippocrates, known as the Father of Medicine, called elderberries his “medicine chest”. The most common type is Sambucus nigra, also known as the European elderberry or black elder. This tree is native to Europe, though it is widely grown in many other parts of the world.
What are the health benefits of Black Elderberry?
Black Elderberry is a natural source of vitamins C, E, and A, and is packed with more free-radical-fighting antioxidants than blueberries and pomegranates. Black elderberries get their deep purple color from very high levels of anthocyanins and flavonoids, which greatly support our immune system and reduce inflammation. In folk medicine, dried berries are used to treat influenza, infections, headaches, dental pain, heart pain, and nerve pain, as well as a laxative and diuretic. Antioxidants in Black Elderberry help the body fight off free radicals and boost the immune system and defend against the damage caused by viruses and bacteria. It is also known to benefit kidney, joint and muscle health.
What are the side effects of Black Elderberry?
Elderberry is commonly consumed in foods. Elderberry extract is mostly safe when taken for up to 12 weeks. Do not take Black Elderberry as a supplement, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.