Benefits of Elderberry for Immune Health in Adults and Children

Elderberry, derived from the Sambucus tree, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, elderberry is renowned for its immune-boosting properties, making it a popular natural remedy for adults and children. With elderberries ripening across the Northeast US right now, it seems like a timely opportunity to explore the benefits of elderberry for immune health, and how you can make elderberry syrup as a natural remedy for your family.

Immune-Boosting Properties of Elderberry

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Elderberries are packed with flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins, which have powerful antioxidant effects. These compounds help protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and enhancing overall immune function.
2. High Vitamin C Content: Elderberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, a key nutrient for immune health. Vitamin C supports the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections. It also helps in the repair and growth of tissues, further bolstering the body’s defenses.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to illness. Elderberry has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and support a healthier immune response.

Specific Benefits of Elderberry for Adults

• Cold and Flu Relief: Studies suggest that elderberry extract can reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. For adults, taking elderberry supplements at the onset of symptoms may help shorten recovery time by several days, making it a valuable addition to winter wellness routines.
• Support During High-Stress Periods: Adults often experience periods of high stress, which can weaken the immune system. Elderberry's immune-supporting properties can be particularly beneficial during these times, helping to ward off infections when the body is most vulnerable.
• Antiviral Properties: Elderberry has demonstrated antiviral effects, particularly against influenza viruses. For adults, this means a potential reduction in the severity and duration of flu symptoms, as well as a lower likelihood of complications.

Specific Benefits of Elderberry for Children

• Safe and Natural Remedy: For children, elderberry is often considered a safe, natural option to support immune health, especially during the cold and flu season. It is available in various forms, including syrups and gummies, making it easy to incorporate into a child’s routine.
• Enhanced Immune Response: Children’s immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to infections. Regular elderberry supplementation can help strengthen their immune response, potentially reducing the frequency of colds and other respiratory infections.
• Soothing Effects on Coughs and Sore Throats: Elderberry is known for its soothing properties, making it effective in alleviating coughs and sore throats in children. Its gentle action makes it a preferred choice for parents seeking natural remedies.

What is Elderberry Syrup?

Elderberry syrup is a popular form of elderberry supplementation due to its convenience, potency, and effectiveness. Here are several reasons why people choose elderberry syrup:

1. Concentrated Dosage

Elderberry syrup is made by boiling elderberries to extract their beneficial compounds, resulting in a concentrated form of the fruit. This allows for a higher dosage of the active ingredients, such as antioxidants and vitamins, in a smaller serving. A teaspoon or two of syrup provides a potent dose of immune-boosting nutrients.

2. Ease of Use

Syrup is easy to incorporate into daily routines. It can be taken directly by the spoonful or added to beverages like water, tea, or smoothies. This versatility makes it a convenient option for both adults and children.

3. Palatability

Elderberry syrup is often sweetened with honey, making it more palatable, especially for children. The sweetness balances the tartness of elderberries, resulting in a pleasant flavor that can make taking it more enjoyable.

4. Quick Absorption

The liquid form of elderberry syrup is absorbed more quickly by the body compared to capsules or gummies. This means that its immune-boosting effects can be felt sooner, which is particularly beneficial during the onset of cold or flu symptoms.

5. Natural and Preservative-Free

High-quality elderberry syrups are often made with minimal ingredients, usually just elderberries, water, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. This makes it a natural and preservative-free option, which is appealing to those looking to avoid artificial additives.

How to Make Your Own Elderberry Syrup

Now that you know about the immune-boosting benefits of elderberries, and how elderberry syrup can be a delicious and easy way to incorporate this natural remedy into your life, let’s learn how to make it!

Ingredients

1. In a medium saucepan, combine elderberries, water, and cinnamon sticks.
2. Heat on medium heat until the mixture starts to boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cover with a lid.
3. Simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the syrup is reduced by about half.
4. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes. Pour the syrup through a fine mesh strainer into a glass bowl. Use the back of a spoon to squeeze any remaining juice out of the berries. Discard the elderberries.
5. Allow the elderberry syrup to cool completely before whisking in the honey.
6. Add the honey and stir until it dissolves into the mixture.
7. Pour completed syrup into a glass mason jar, add a lid, and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze syrup in ice cube trays, and thaw whenever you need them.

Notes:

Makes about 3 cups of elderberry syrup. Suggested Use: Children over 1 year of age can take ½ - 1 teaspoon a day. Adults can take 1 tablespoon per day as a preventative, and increase to every 2-3 hours if you feel an illness coming on. Recipe from artfulhomemaking.com

Considerations and Usage

While elderberry offers numerous benefits, it’s important to use it properly. Raw elderberries are toxic and should never be consumed; they must be cooked or processed into supplements, syrups, or extracts.  Elderberry syrup is generally safe for all ages, making it a family-friendly option. However, it should not be given to children under the age of one.  Most elderberry syrups contain honey, and honey should not be given to infants due to the risk of botulism. 

Another immune-boosting strategy we use in our clinic is Immune Essentials by Celarity. It contains N-Acetyl Cysteine, Zinc, Quercetin, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D to defend your body against viral and bacterial infections, as well as recover faster.  We like to use this, and then add in Elderberry syrup as a natural immune booster during times when flu, colds, and other illnesses are prevalent.

Conclusion

Elderberry is a powerful natural remedy that can support immune health in both adults and children. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties make it an effective tool for preventing and managing colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.

Elderberry syrup is an effective and enjoyable way to harness the immune-boosting benefits of elderberries. Its concentrated dosage, quick absorption, and natural ingredients make it a preferred choice for many people looking to support their immune health, including our family. Whether used as a daily supplement or as a targeted remedy during illness, elderberry can be a valuable addition to any health regimen, helping to keep the immune system strong and resilient year-round.