We’re in the thick of winter, with a forecast of heavy snowfall and temperatures dropping every day. Naturally, keeping your children warm and healthy may be on your mind. As parents, you may have stocked up on nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc and more in your medicine cabinet. But what if we told you that there’s another important, but lesser-known nutrient that can help? We’re talking about elderberry. Elderberry is one of the most effective natural remedies for upper respiratory ailments, and is also known for its immune-boosting capabilities!
Let’s get into everything you need to know about elderberries and how they can support your family through the remainder of cold & flu season.
The nutritional benefits of elderberry
Elderberries have been used in traditional medicine for many centuries (dating back to 2000 B.C.E!). They’re commonly used as a remedy for fevers, have been known to reduce inflammation, and even shorter the duration and severity of infections.
Elderberries are rich in nutrients, including a variety of antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules that fight harmful particles called free radicals, which can cause oxidative damage to our cells. Antioxidants help neutralize these harmful particles, keep our cells healthy, and as a result strengthen our immune defenses.
Elderberries are rich in a few different antioxidants:
- Anthocyanins – These are flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory properties (this is also what gives elderberries their dark black-purple colour!)
- Phenolic acid – Compounds that can help reduce damage from oxidative stress
- Flavonols (quercetin and kaempferol) – These are part of the flavonoid family, and have anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties
Elderberries and their cold-fighting abilities
One of the reasons that elderberries are so beneficial for colds is because they act as an effective diaphoretic. This means they tackle infections by promoting sweating, which helps to remove any accumulated waste products through our kidneys, skin, and mucus membranes. Why is this important? Well, regularly flushing out toxins can help relieve your little ones from congestion, muscle aches, and other symptoms that come with being sick.
Fun fact – elderberries are also high in vitamin C (52mg per cup), the go-to nutrient when it comes to strengthening your immune system. This makes elderberries that much more powerful at fighting off viruses and infections!
How can you make elderberries a part of your child’s routine?
While elderberries can be found in Canada, they usually grow during late summer so it may not be possible to forage for these berries now (let’s face it–it’s not exactly foraging weather). Instead, a daily supplement such as our Kids Elderberry + Vitamin C Chewables can be effective at helping your little ones’ immune systems thrive. This formula is designed to relieve symptoms of cold & flu, including fever, coughs, sore throat, and phlegm buildup. It also helps encourage detoxification and supports immune function. With added 50mg of vitamin C and a delicious-tasting natural blueberry flavour, you’ll be able to give your kids the support they need this cold & flu season. If your kiddos aren’t a fan of chewables, this formula is also available in a liquid form.
Elderberry will find a good home in your roster of immune-boosting helpers. Loaded with antioxidants and proven to reduce the duration and severity of infections, these berries provide fruitful immune support!
Sources
ElderCraft
Vitamin C
Elderberry: Benefits and Dangers
Health benefits of elderberry
Foraging 101: ancient elderberry
