The elderberry is not only rich in virtues, but also rich in history. Indeed, it has been known to have been consumed by man since the Stone Age. In Roman and Greek times, it was called “the food of the gods”. Women also used it to lighten their complexion.

Later, Celts and Germans attributed magical powers to the plant. Native Americans used it to treat various domestic ailments. In Europe, elderberries were used for their diuretic effects. So what are the true values of elderberries? How is it eaten? When to eat it? Find out everything you need to know about this virtuous plant!

Elderberries and their medicinal properties

The elderberry thrives in temperate climates, and also enjoys soils rich in nitrate (nitrogen). Everything about elderberry is good. From the flower, to the berries, to the leaves, everything about this shrub offers innumerable benefits. In elderflowers, scientists have discovered phenolic acid and flavonoids, powerful antioxidants. The flowers also contain essential oils and several minerals. Elder leaves, on the other hand, have calming properties, as they are high in tannins, potassium nitrate and valerianic acid.

But the elderberry remains the most interesting in terms of pharmaceutical, nutritional and taste value. Indeed, it’s easy to appreciate berries thanks to their taste, which is close to that of grapes and blackberries. Their greatest value lies in the fact that they are packed with iron, amino acids, tannins and vitamins A, B2, B3, B5, B6 and C.

For all these virtues, elderberries are extremely popular in phytotherapy and vegetarian cooking. It is used in its entirety and in all its forms.

WHAT AILMENTS CAN ELDERBERRIES BE USED TO TREAT?
Over the years, this berry has been studied by many scientists. In 1993, a study carried out in Israel during a flu epidemic showed that after two days of elderberry treatment, subjects showed a marked improvement in their state of health. Between 1999 and 2000, new studies were launched by Israeli researchers in Norway on people suffering from influenza. These scientists discovered that elderberry could block flu symptoms such as headaches, fever, aches and nasal congestion.

In combination with other plants, the berry of the miraculous elderberry tree also reduces gingivitis. Scientific studies have also shown that regular consumption of elderberry juice considerably reduces blood cholesterol levels. So it’s also an effective remedy for hyperlipidemia. But that’s not all: berries are also effective against sinusitis, bronchitis and obesity. Some scientists even believe that elderberries have anti-cancer properties.

Externally, elderberry is particularly effective against hemorrhoids, eczema, burns and bruises.

HOW TO EAT ELDERBERRIES
Particularly popular in vegetarian cuisine, elderberries are a hit with vegetarians. It’s rare to find fresh berries, but when you do, don’t eat them raw. Simply because elderberries contain sambucine. This is a toxic alkaloid that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. But once the berries have been heated to over 65°, this unhealthy component disappears. In fact, before you can benefit from all the virtues of these delicious berries, you’ll need to cook them.

Don’t eat elderberries without first processing them. In liquid extract, tincture or syrup form, the berries are excellent for colds and respiratory inflammation. For natural iron health, combine elderberries with other equally beneficial products such as ginger, lemon essential oil, green tea…

You can also vary the way you eat them. Elderberry-based recipes, like the possibilities, are legion. Embellish your cakes and pastries with elderberries to enjoy both their taste and the virtues they provide. For all these reasons, elderberries are an essential ingredient in vegetarian cooking.

SIDE EFFECTS AND CONTRAINDICATIONS
Not everyone can consume elderberries. People with arrhythmia or cardiovascular disease risk tachycardia if they take too high a dose of elderberry. On the other hand, because elderberry is an antihypertensive, people with low blood pressure risk increased hypotension if they consume it. But people with diabetes, anorexia, gastrointestinal disorders or respiratory illnesses also need to take precautions. People who have undergone chemotherapy should also avoid taking it.

Furthermore, because the safety of elderberry for pregnant women, nursing mothers and young children has not yet been conclusively proven, its consumption by these subjects is not recommended by the WHO. Indeed, a study carried out on pregnant mice showed that elderberry was toxic to their fetuses. However, based on human anatomy, the mice received disproportionately excessive doses.

IT’S UP TO YOU
Now you know everything there is to know about elderberry. Its virtues, undesirable effects and actions on the body no longer hold any secrets for you. Now it’s up to you to tell your friends and family about elderberry.