Benefits of Elderberry For Kids
Over the last several years there has been a shift in lifestyle trends. The newer generations have taken strides to live a healthier life. Businesses have taken notice and therefore there are way more options for people to make a decision as to what they put in their body.
Parents are looking for more home remedies to help keep their little ones healthy and ease some of symptoms brought on by sickness.
Elderberry is a natural immune boosting vitamin that’s often sold over the counter. Here is a inside look at the benefits of Elderberry and how it can help protect your child this cold and flu season.
What is Elderberry?
Elderberry is a fruit that grows on the Sambucus tree. It’s dark in color like a very dark purple or black. The berry has been used in parts of Europe in holistic medical practice. The leaves were commonly used to help treat swelling and inflammation.
The actual fruit is cooked made into a syrup. It’s used today to help treat flu like symptoms and help boost the immune system.
Here are some facts about Elderberry:
- High in vitamin C: There are 6–35 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams of fruit, which accounts for up to 60% of the recommended daily intake.
- High in dietary fiber: Elderberries contain 7 grams of fiber per 100 grams of fresh berries, which is over one-quarter of the recommended daily intake.
- A good source of phenolic acids: These compounds are powerful antioxidants that can help reduce damage from oxidative stress in the body.
- A good source of flavonols: Elderberry contains the antioxidant flavonols quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin. The flowers contain up to 10 times more flavonols than the berries.
- Rich in anthocyanins: These compounds give the fruit its characteristic dark black-purple color and are a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects.
How To Use Elderberry
There are different forms of Elderberry. Some brands carry a chewy form on the fruit extract. It’s more like a chewy vitamin. Others carry a syrup. When you’re shopping for Elderberry be sure buy the one specified for children if your buying for someone other then an adult.
Read the recommended dosage for your child but be sure to check with your pediatrician for the correct dosage amount.
Taking the recommended dosage daily is said to help improve your immune system and fight off the flu. With parents will little ones, especially just starting out with school, can see a high number of colds and virus during the winter season.
Try using Elderberry to help flight off the flu naturally. Keep in mind however, that this should not replace medical attention. If your child is sick and not improving be sure to consult with your pediatrician.