The Answer to Seasonal Cold Prevention: Benefits of Fall Elderberry Syrup and How to Make It at Home (Boosting Women's Immunity)

(Source : https://sparrowhawknativeplants.com )

Hello,

The cool breeze in the morning and evening signals that fall has truly arrived. It's a beautiful season, but it's also a time when our body's immune system is put to the test due to drastic temperature changes and dry air. Women, in particular, need more careful management as their immunity can be easily compromised by hormonal changes and stress.

During this transitional season, nature offers a gem-like fruit: the elderberry. Today, I want to talk in-depth about how to use this berry to make a 'homemade elderberry syrup' that will robustly protect the health of our families, especially women, throughout the fall.

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The black jewel, elderberry, fills your autumn with health.

The Jewel of Autumn, Elderberry: What Amazing Benefits Does It Have?

Elderberry has been called 'nature's medicine chest' for centuries, thanks to its powerful health benefits. Elderberries harvested in the fall are especially rich in nutrients, making them excellent for managing health during the change of seasons.

[Summary of Benefits]

• Supports a strong immune system and prevents colds
• Rich in antioxidants for anti-aging and cell protection
• Soothes inflammation and improves respiratory health
• Promotes skin health and protects vision

1. Powerful Immune Boost
The most well-known benefit of elderberry is its ability to boost immunity. The fruit is rich in 'anthocyanins,' powerful antioxidants that help activate our immune cells and inhibit viruses from penetrating them. Studies have shown that elderberry extract can effectively reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms.

2. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Free radicals are a major cause of aging and various diseases in our bodies. Elderberry is packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and polyphenols, which protect our bodies from these harmful free radicals. This helps prevent cell damage and reduces inflammatory responses, contributing to the prevention of chronic diseases and the maintenance of a healthy, youthful body.

3. Respiratory Health Support
Many people suffer from frequent coughs and sore throats during the transitional seasons. Elderberry has traditionally been used to alleviate symptoms of respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds, and bronchitis. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe throat inflammation and comfort the respiratory system.

4. Women's Health and Skin Beauty
The potent antioxidant effects also have a direct impact on women's health and beauty. They help slow down cellular aging, promoting firm and vibrant skin. Furthermore, the anthocyanin content helps relieve eye fatigue and protect vision, making it particularly beneficial for modern women who frequently use smartphones and computers.

Precautions for Taking Elderberry Syrup (Are There Any Side Effects?)

Even the best foods must be consumed correctly. Please keep the following points in mind when taking elderberry.

[Summary of Precautions]

• Never consume unripe, raw elderberries, leaves, or stems.
• Consult a professional if you have an autoimmune disease.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women must consult a doctor before use.
• Allergic reactions may occur in certain individuals.

1. Do Not Consume Uncooked Berries 
The leaves, stems, seeds, and unripe fruit of the elderberry plant contain a substance that can produce cyanide, which may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is essential to consume only fully ripe berries that have been 'cooked.' The dried elderberries used in recipes are safely processed.

2. Caution for Individuals with Autoimmune Diseases 
Because elderberry activates the immune system, it could potentially worsen symptoms for those with autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, where the immune system is already overactive. It is crucial to consult your doctor before consumption.

3. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women 
There is not enough research on the safety of elderberry for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Therefore, it is safest to avoid it during this period or to consult with a healthcare professional.

4. Check for Allergic Reactions 
Although rare, some people may experience an allergic reaction. If you are trying elderberry for the first time, it is wise to start with a small amount to see how your body reacts.

Elderberry: How Can We Use It Healthily? (Making Homemade Syrup)

While there are many great products on the market, making your own syrup at home ensures it's free of additives and tailored to your taste. The process is simpler than you think, so I encourage you to give it a try.

• Ingredients: 1 cup dried elderberries, 3-4 cups water, 1-2 slices of ginger, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 cup of raw honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste).
  
  
• Instructions:
  1. In a saucepan, combine the dried elderberries, water, ginger, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by about half.
  3. Gently mash the berries with a spatula or spoon to help release their beneficial properties.
  4. Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, collecting only the clear liquid.
  5. Allow the extracted liquid to cool to lukewarm temperature. Then, stir in the raw honey or maple syrup until fully combined. (Adding honey to hot liquid can destroy its nutrients.)
  6. Pour the syrup into a sterilized glass jar and store it in the refrigerator.
     
     
• Dosage and Storage:
  • For prevention: Adults can take 1 tablespoon (15ml) daily.
  • At the first sign of a cold: Take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day to help alleviate symptoms.
  • Storage: The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for about 2-3 months.

( Source : https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/ )

Conclusion

Elderberry, a small fruit filled with the wisdom of nature, can be an excellent partner in protecting our health from the unpredictable fall weather. How about taking care of your and your loved ones' immunity with a spoonful of homemade elderberry syrup, made with your own care and attention?

I hope you have a vibrant and healthy season this fall, free from cold worries, with the help of elderberry syrup.

[References]

• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). "Elderberry."
• Healthline. "Elderberry: Benefits and Dangers."
• Tiralongo, E., Wee, S. S., & Lea, R. A. (2016). Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutrients, 8(4), 182.

 

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