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| Elderberry - Nature's Medicine Chest |
Written by Nutrovita
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra [Latin]), also called elder flower are native
to Europe, but have been naturalized to the Americas, and have a long
history of medicinal use, particularly in England, where it is commonly
used to make elderberry wine and pies, and was once referred to as
"nature's medicine chest."
Elderberry is a natural remedy with three flavonoids that have antiviral
properties. Flavonoids are very effective against different strains of
influenza virus. Black Elderberry also has other compounds, called
anthocyanins, which have an anti-inflammatory effect, thus reducing
aches and pains. Elderberries contain flavonoids, which are natural
chemical substances that give food their taste and color; they also
boost the immune system, and supply the body with antioxidant
protection. Elderberry may be effective in treating some diseases
related to a depressed immune system, and preliminary studies have shown
some preliminary promises against some viruses, including herpes and the
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Two of the compounds found in
Elderberry, alpha- and beta-amyrin palmitate, have been shown to exhibit
strong antihepatotoxic activity, making it an excellent choice for
combating liver damage. Other plant chemicals, the flavonoids, phenolic
compounds and triterpenes, have antioxidant and antimicrobial qualities,
with subtle "hormone-like" communication capabilities. This subtle herb
can often avert problems before they get started, making it increasingly
popular as an immune booster among people who have immune compromised
health issues such as HIV. Elderberry has been traditionally used for
relieving pain, inflammation, water retention, and congestion. All parts
of the Elderberry tree, including the bark, flowers, and leaves, have
been used in herbal medicine. Elderberry leaves are added to topical
creams and sitz baths to treat inflammatory disorders, such as
arthritis, boils, and eczema. Aged Elderberry bark has been used to
treat water retention and constipation, and to induce vomiting.
Elderberry has been shown to be very effective against at least eight
strains of flu virus. It contains Sambucus nigra agglutinins (SNAs),
which help prevent some types of flu from infecting healthy cells.
Elderberry is one of the most effective herbs for preventing and
treating upper respiratory infections. Studies have shown that
elderberry reduces excessive sinus mucus secretion, and some studies
also suggest that elderberry can help lessen swelling of mucous
membranes, improve sinus drainage, and decreased nasal congestion in
those with bacterial sinusitis. Elderberry works as a simple cleanser
and as an antioxidant. It is also a diaphoretic, diuretic, and hepatic.
It is anti-inflammatory, anti-catarrhal, and acts as a mild laxative.
This gentle herb is used for bronchitis, catarrh, common cold symptoms
including coughs and sore throats, fevers, influenza, neuralgia,
rheumatism, sciatica & skin disorders.
Uses Of Elderberry
* Elderberry used for kidney problems, urinary problems, eliminating
excess water from the body and Inflammatory Conditions. * Elderberry
may be helpful in arthritic and rheumatic complaints. * Elderberry
flowers tea use to treat respiratory infections. * It is also used
for fighting influenza and colds as an excellent internal cleanser. *
Elderberry helps in relieves asthma, bronchitis, sore throat, colds and
influenza.| * Other proposed uses of Elderberry are : High
Cholesterol HIV Support Herpes
Side Effects Of Elderberry
Elderberry flowers are generally regarded as safe. Side effects are rare
and consist primarily of occasional mild gastrointestinal distress or
allergic reactions. Nonetheless, safety in young children, pregnant or
nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease has not been
established.
About the Author
This article written by the Research & Herbs Department At Nutrovita.com.
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Important Notice: The content and information in this article is the sole responsibility of the article's author who retains copyright. Publication of this article by The Cauldron: A Pagan Forum is not endorsement of the statements, opinions, or claims of fact made in the article.
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