Elderberry for Cold and Flu Relief

Cold and flu season is once again upon us. Before we talk about how to get relief from these conditions, let's first talk about how to avoid them altogether.

Hand washing is the best defense against contracting sickness.

Also, most doctors recommend getting a flu shot beginning right now. They are available at most pharmacies for a nominal fee, and most places do not even require an appointment. The flu shot lasts for six moths, so now would be an ideal time to get one and it will last you through the winter.

However, if you find yourself with a cold or flu, consider taking elderberry.

One tablespoon of an elderberry syrup extract four times a day is a typical recommendation, although you should consult your own doctor before taking it, or any other supplement.

Sometimes people take elderberry as a lozenge, often with zinc, several times a day after a cold has begun. In fact, research indicates that if you start taking elderberry withing one or two days after your symptoms arise, you can slash the time you suffer by one half!

Elderberry has been found to ease cold and flu symptoms like body aches, fatigue, fever, cough, sore throat, and headaches. But it doesn't stop there. Some people claim the healing properties of elderberry are effective in fighting high cholesterol and even HIV, although there isn't enough evidence at this point to substantially support those claims.

What gives elderberry its kick? Flavonoids, substances found in nature (in this case as the fruit of the elder tree) that boost the immune system as well as reducing inflammation.

One word of caution: don't eat raw elderberries. They are poisonous! In the raw form, they produce cyanide.

And don't waste your time eating cooked elderberries. You may run across elderberry jam or elderberry wine. They have not been shown to have marked health benefits.

If you decide to try elderberry, you'll most likely want to purchase it at the health store, vitamin shop or pharmacy. But check with your doctor first.