Hebrew Living
There are a number of great natural herbs available and the one that we will be talking about in this post is “Elderberry” aka Sambucus nigra.
The berries of this tree are great during flu season because they reduce mucous secretions in the sinus cavities and reduce swelling of mucous membranes which help with congestion.
Not only is Elderberry used for the flu, but it has been used for a number of things ranging to cholesterol, vision, boosting the immune system, colds, skin problems, joint pain and even bacterial and viral infections.
Elderberry has been used by tribes for centuries and is often served as a tea, tincture, syrup, jam, jelly and now in a capsule.
More About Sambucus nigra/Elderberry
Sambucus nigra is a species complex of flowering plants in the family Adoxaceae native to most of Europe and North America. Common names include elder, elderberry, black elder, European elder, European elderberry and European black elderberry. It grows in a variety of conditions including both wet and dry fertile soils, primarily in sunny locations.
Natives called elder the “tree of music” and made flutes from branches cut in spring and dried with the leaves on them. Large shoots (branches) were used for arrow shafts. In addition, the tribes are stated to have eaten the dried berries as a winter staple and used the twigs and fruit in basketry.
Reportedly, Judas hung himself from an Elder tree.
Note: The dark blue/purple berries can be eaten when fully ripe but are mildly toxic if they are ate in their unripe state. Can cause gastrointestinal symptoms.
References:
medicinalherbinfo.org
motherearthliving.com
Sambucus Nigra
