What is Elderberry?
The elderberry is a dark purple or blueberry growing on the elderberry bush or elder tree. It is found across Europe and North America where temperate climates make it thrive. Often found along streams or roadways, the hardy plant is in no danger of extinction. Benefits Greek philosophers believed in the medicinal value of elderberry. For example, Hippocrates called it his medicine chest.
It was used for centuries on those suffering from constipation, the common cold, arthritis, and asthma. Elderberries not only strengthen the immune system but also are a great source of potassium and vitamin C. Elderberries also reduce the risk of atherosclerosis by keeping platelets from adhering to the blood vessel walls. This reduces risks caused by bad cholesterol. But perhaps its most famous benefit is providing the body with anthocyanins. These are antioxidants that protect the body cells from damage caused by stress, poor diet, or environmental toxins.
We all have heard that carrots help us see better. Elderberries actually help us see better at night. They aid the body in producing rhodopsin, or visual purple, a substance in the rods of the retina that aid in seeing in reduced light.
