If you’re dreading the onset of the annual flu season, it might be time to think about adding elderberry tincture to your medicine cabinet. Elderberry has long been used as a natural remedy for colds and flu viruses, it’s only fairly recently that medical science has caught up with the true health benefits of elderberry. Research demonstrates that elderberry helps alleviate inflammation that can help manage a whole host of chronic illnesses and diseases.
What is Elderberry Tincture?
Elderberry tincture is essentially a concentrated form of elderberries. As with other tinctures, elderberries and other parts of the plant are soaked in a liquid such as glycerin or alcohol for several weeks. During this period, essential vitamins and other nutrients from the elderberry are diffused into the liquid, eventually resulting in a potent tincture. This tincture can be consumed in droplet form and applied directly to the tongue. Others may choose to add a drop or two to their morning smoothie. Unlike syrups, elderberry tinctures aren’t enriched with things like added sugar or other flavorings, making them a healthier alternative.
Elderberry Tincture Benefits for Managing Cold and Flu Viruses
If you’re worried about succumbing to cold and flu viruses, elderberry tincture is something you should keep close to hand. Many people reach for elderberry tincture as a way to ward off infection or lessen the severity of symptoms.
Elderberry is celebrated for its antiviral and antibacterial prowess. When consumed regularly, it can help strengthen the immune system and give the body a fighting chance in the event you succumb to a cold or flu virus.
Elderberries also offer a rich source of antioxidants and nutrients. This flowering plant is rich in a wide variety of vitamins, including vitamin A, C, and B. It’s also high in things like potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Upping your intake of all of these will improve immune system response and lessen the impact of things like oxidative stress on the body.
Other Major Health Benefits of Elderberry Tincture
Because elderberries offer a rich source of anthocyanins, consuming elderberry tincture regularly will help your body maintain a healthy inflammatory response. Inflammation is often the root cause of many serious diseases, which is why it’s so vital that you maintain a healthy inflammatory response consistently.
In addition to anthocyanins, elderberries contain flavonoids and phenolic acids. When consuming elderberry tincture as part of a healthy diet and maintain a reasonably active lifestyle, these phytochemicals can help manage a healthy insulin response. This can help prevent the development of conditions like type 2 diabetes. For those already diagnosed with the condition, elderberry can prove an effective supplement to prescribed medication and help keep insulin response in check.
