Ahh, the wonders of elderberry syrup!
Sambucus nigra, commonly called Elderberry, is a powerful ally for cold and flu season. It is a beautiful shrub or small tree with white umbel flowers in the spring and small, anti-oxidant rich fruit in the fall. It's always a race to get some before the birds avail themselves to them all!
I have been making elderberry syrup for years, adding other useful herbs such as ginger, cinnamon, clove... It is valued for its potent anti-viral effect on the flu virus.
There have been comprehensive studies examining the constituents of this ancient remedy and how the phytochemicals present in the berries are useful in the early stages of infection by disrupting the mechanics of how a virus attaches and enters into cells. It blocks the viral cycle at several stages. These studies also discovered its effectiveness in inhibiting viral propagation as the virus tries to spread when cells are already infected.
Elderberry also stimulates cells to release certain cytokines that the immune system uses to communicate with different cell types to coordinate a more efficient response in the body. There has been some talk lately about how this response could cause problems. These viruses have evolved over time to find ways to disrupt the human response. Our bodies do the same.
Pharmaceutical scientists will study a plant and isolate an active component and synthesize it in a lab. This discounts the myriad of various other phytochemicals present in the plant that buffer or enhance these qualities. It's also true that if the virus is further along, sending more anti-inflammatory response by the body may not be effective enough to overcome the onslaught. Here is where modern medical techniques will be warranted.
My family has used this flavorful syrup for years. We feel it has helped in our resistance in flu season. Biologically, the constituents in the berry strengthen the cell membranes, helping deter viruses from entering the cell where they use the cell materials in replicating and spreading.
That said, it is important to listen to our own bodies and trust in the intelligence held within. Be safe, be well, stay healthy and strong~
