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Big Pharm Loses Out To One Little Berry
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Consuming elderberry supports and even boosts the body’s immune system. For instance, flavonoids, found in elderberry, include anthocyanins, which are powerful anti-oxidants that help protect blood cells from damaging free radicals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture lists black elderberries as having twice as much anthocyanin’s than any other fruit! Elderberries are also credited with increasing the body’s production of infection fighting proteins called cytokines, which are involved in the regulation of the body’s immune system response, helping it to fight disease and infection. These tiny black berries also contain vitamins A and B as well as providing the benefits of copious amounts of Vitamin C. It’s important to be aware, however, that because of its incredible potential for boosting the immune system, elderberries could reduce the effectiveness of certain immuno-suppressing drugs such as prednisone. People with auto-immune diseases as well as anyone with an organ transplant should not take it. It’s recommended before starting herbal or vitamin supplements that you consult your physician.
Lastly, studies are even suggesting that elderberries contain anti-viral compounds. It’s fascinating to imagine how centuries before the development of cutting edge anti-viral drugs, which are now produced and marketed by major pharmaceutical companies, elderberries were already being used by some of our earliest medical practitioners.
SEE ALSO: Super Health Benefits of This One Little Known Berry
Of course the research is ongoing, but the scientific evidence, as well anecdotal evidence from the growing community of those who consume elderberry regularly, should be more than sufficient reason to keep it within easy reach and ready to use at the first sign of flu. There are numerous recipes online for making your own elderberry syrup, jam, or tincture. Check with your local health food or natural store for fresh or dried elderberries if you aren’t fortunate enough to live in an area where you can pick your own.
There is nothing better than Mother Nature when it comes to helping the body heal itself.
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