It only makes sense that I would be writing the first post of this, my new blog endeavor, from my bed recovering from a nasty head cold. I have been putting off this project for a while claiming I have not had enough time for it, but it seems now that a nice seasonal cold was all I needed to get the ball rolling. With that said, I am left with no choice but to make my first post about the most wonderful homeopathic cold remedy that I have found thus far--Sambucus.
Black Elderberry, technically called Sambucus nigra, has been used medicinally for hundreds of years. It's most common form is a syrup. It can be used for all sorts of ailments including high cholesterol, poor vision, and low immune system. It's strong antioxidant activity is also good for heart health, coughs, colds, flu, bacterial and viral infections, and even tonsilitis.
"Elderberries contain organic pigments, tannin, amino acids, carotenoids, flavonoids, sugar, rutin, viburnic acid, vitamin A and a large amount of vitamin C." (herbwisdom.com)
"Elderberries were listed in the CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs as early as 1985, and are listed in the 2000 Mosby's Nursing Drug reference for colds, flu, yeast infections, nasal and chest congestion, and hay fever." (herbwisdom.com)
To break this down a little bit, the proteins that are found in black elderberries help to defend the body against disease, cold, and flu by acting as messengers in the immune system. Recent studies have shown that ingesting Sambucus nigra can help the body defend itself against the H1N1 flu virus. While further research needs to be conducted, a small study published in 2004 showed that 93% of flu patients given elderberry extract were completely symptom-free within two days; those taking a placebo recovered in about six days. (The Journal of International Medical Research)
So, If you are trying to stay off the over-the-counter drugs this cold and flu season, or trying to save a little money, I definitely recommend adopting an elderberry syrup regimen. I would say take a tsp a day while the weather is still in transition and then 2-3 tblsp a day when you are feeling under the weather. In my own personal use, I have found it to be a pretty strong diuretic and to be anti-inflammatory so drink a lot of water with it. You can find it in your closest health food store, online or, for all you thrifty people, you can make it yourself (instructions coming soon!).
For more information check out these websites:
If you have a cold and flu remedy of your own or just have questions feel free to leave a comment. The more information the merrier! :) stay well and be well
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