While I’m a big fan of Chinese herbs, I learned a few things about European herbs during the Colorado Annual Conference for Naturopathic Doctors. Out of all the herbs highlighted for supporting the immune system, I decided to pluck out Black Elderberry, not only because it is fabulous, but because the speaker shared a fun recipe. Elderberry is fast becoming more well known, and since it is the time of year for cold and flu, it seems appropriate to share a little information.

 

Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Black Elderberry’s Mechanism of Action:

Deactivates viruses ability to pierce cell walls, enter and replicate

 

• Long-established tonic for immune system support for “early stage” intervention
• Elder Flowers are used in acute respiratory diseases, serious otitis, acute otitis media, acute influenza, fever, and upper respiratory infection.
• Anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immunotonic agents, inhibits several strains of influenza
• Black Elderberry contains Flavonoids, such as Quercetin. I am a long time fan of Quercetin to address seasonal allergies and arthritis as this flavonoid is an effective anti-inflammatory, see article at http://daisylear.com/seasonal-allergies-2/

Flavonoids have significant protective effects against oxidative stress
Oxidation explained: We’ve seen it in nature, metals turn different colors and become weaker, a cut apple turns brown, mushy and less nutritious. Overall, the original nature of things change. For example, over exposure to sun causes oxidative stress to the human system. Oxidation also causes inflammation, which is the primary cause of dis-ease and pain. Antioxidants inhibit the oxidation of other molecules.

 

Recipe for Black Elderberry Gummies from Dr. Mary Bove
18 servings, 25 minutes to prepare, plus freezing time

Ingredients:

1 cup acai juice, or another no sugar added juice

1 tablespoon local honey

1 tablespoon agar agar

1 (3-ounce) bottle Black Elderberry Syrup

 

Preparation:

Place a small pan over low heat, then stir together the juice, agar agar and honey. Heat over low until the agar agar is completely dissolved.  Remove from heat and add the Black Elderberry Syrup.

Pour into silicone molds or an 8×8 glass dish lined with parchment and coated with coconut oil. Place in the freezer for about 30 minutes, until firm.

Remove from freezer and pop out of molds or slice into squares. Store on parchment inside in airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Each portion contains a 1 teaspoon daily serving of Black Elderberry Syrup.

Enjoy!

 

And I couldn’t possibly leave out information about how Chinese medicine and acupuncture supports the Immune System. There are two techniques that increase the white blood cell count and help the system fight off pathogens.  These techniques do not require the insertion of an acupuncture needle. To read more, please refer to this previously published article http://daisylear.com/cold-and-flu/