You are on page 1of 114

HEALTH BENEFITS

AND USE OF
ELDERBERRY FRUIT

By
Dr. George F. Felfoldi
© 2023, George F. Felfoldi
HEALTH BENEFITS
AND USE OF
ELDERBERRY FRUIT
COPYRIGHT INFORMATION
© 2023, George Felfoldi

Please feel free to distribute this e-Book,


As long as all the information is intact,
And is unchanged.
ALL OTHER COPYRIGHTS
BELONG TO THEIR RESPECTABLE
OWNERS.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page
Copyright Information
Table Of Content
. Introduction To Elderberry Fruit
. What Does The Bible Say About Trees & Herbs
. What Does The American Dictionary Tell Us
. What Does The Oxford Dictionary Tell Us
. Common Names
. What Is Elderberry Fruit
. There Are Many Ways To Consume & Use Elderberry
. Physical Description
. Healing Benefits Of Elderberry
. Elderberry Nutrition
. How To Use Elderberry Fruit
. Side Effects, Risks And Interactions One
. Taking Precautions
. Interactions Two
. How You Can Store Elderberry
. Dosage To Take
. Food Sources Of Elderberry
. Elderberry Sources & What To Look For
. How Much Do We Know About Elderberry
. What We Have Learned About Elderberry
. What Do We Know About Safety
How To Care And Grow Elderberry Trees
. Information On Condition
How To Plant Elderberry
. When To Plant
. Selecting A Planting Site
. Spacing, Depth, Support
The Elderberry Tree Care
. Light
. Soil
. Water
. Humidity & Temperature
.Fertilizer
. Pollination
Different Types Of Elderberry Trees
Harvesting Elderberries
Pruning
Propagating The Elderberry Tree
Common Pests And Plant Diseases
Dedication
Special Thanks
About The Author
Other Books By The Author
DEDICATION
I would like to dedicate this e-Book
To my late mom, dad, brother
And also to all my readers
And friends.

THIS BOOK IS TO YOU ALL.


SPECIAL THANKS
I would like to thank all the people,
Companies, Organizations,
Family and friends that made
This e-Book possible.

The Toronto Public Library


Dr. Axe, Ph.D.
B. A. Felfoldi, DBS
Dr. Hubert Kline, M.D.
Dr. Sydney Davis, M.D.
Erno Yeno Felfoldi
InterNet Photos
Print Artist (Front cover)
Jennifer Lefton, MS, RD/N, CNSC, FAND
U.S. Department Of Health
Neha Pathak, M.D.
Rachael Link, MS, RD,
Ana Markovic (Freelance writer)
Wikimedia Commons
Health Canada
Roza Felfoldi
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Daniel Powers, MS
The Botanical Institute
Amy Jeanroy
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

George F. Felfoldi

Dr. George Felfoldi is an Independent


Baptist Minister, An Author, Song writer
And Musician who is a native to
Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
George holds several doctors degrees in
Various fields and has written several books,
On different subjects such as:
Occult, Health, Religion, Herbals,
Ships, and also Poetry and Lyrics.
George is also married and
Has four grown children
living in Toronto, Ontario.
OTHER BOOKS BY
THE AUTHOR

2006
The Healing Powers Of Seaweed And Algae

2007

The Healing Powers Of Blueberries


The Book of Spells :White Magic Vs. Black Magic
The Felfoldi’s :Medical Herbal Encyclopedia
Cooking With Eggs Cookbook
The Healing Powers Of Avocadoes
2008
Hypnosis For Self Betterment And Healing
The Down To Earth Cookbook

2009

The Science of Mind Transformation


The Scottish-Hungarian Cookbook
Cooking With Friends Cookbook
A World Of Food Cookbook

2012
Bed Bugs In The Woodwork

2015

From My Table Cookbook

2017

Kimberley's Famous Recipes

2018

Do Not Stop Cooking


Angels Of The Light
The Angels Connection
Hamster's Simplified
My Scottish Fold Long-Haired Cat (Miss Kitty)
Great Foods Made Easy
The Healing Powers Of Black Pepper
The Healing Powers Of Coffee
The Healing Powers Of Turmeric
The Healing Powers Of Water
Arthritis Simplified
An Invisible Wall In Nature
Bedbugs Simplified

2019

Farmer's Wife Olde And New Tyme Recipes

2021

Cooking Through A Pandemic


Healing Properties Of Garlic
Healing Properties Of Corn
Healing Properties Of Bananas
The Fascinating Facts Of Gnomes
Cherries: A Superfood
Pears: A Supergfood
Plums: A Superfood
Healing Powers Of Pomegranate
Speaking To God Through Prayers
The Future Of Solar Energy

2022

Blue Mountain Cookbook


Cleaning And Kitchen Tips
From Hungarian And Scottish Kitchens
Yes You Can Cook
A Modern Look At Poetry
Health Benefits Of Ginger
Vintage Recipes

2023

Cooking Is For Young And Old


Eating Healthy With George
Cooking Healthy With George
According To The Bible
Great Foods Made Easy
Health Benefits And Use Of Elderberry Fruit
INTRODUCTION
TO ELDERBERRY FRUIT

SOME BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

The elderberry fruit is the dark purple berry of the European


or black elder tree, which is grown in the warmer parts of
Europe, North America, North Africa and also in Asia. This
Plant or tree is also known as the Sambucus nigra plant. This
plant is a rich source of antioxidants that is known as
anthocyanins and is often used to support the immune
system.

The elderberries have been used in folk medicine to treat the


common colds, and the flu.

In folk medicine, these berries was known to treat various


ailments, such as swelling and inflammation to cold and flu
symptoms. The ancient Egyptians used the berries for healing
burns, while the natives of America use the same berries to
treat infections.

The elderberries are still gathered and used across Europe in


various forms, with the intention of improving the general
human health conditions. While today scientific research on
the benefits of these berry supplements is ongoing, some
studies however has shown the plant's effectiveness in
helping ease respiratory symptoms, boost immunity, reduce
high blood pressure, and prevent heart disease.
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE
SAY ABOUT TREES & HERBS

Gen 1:11 And God said let the earth bring forth grass, the
herbs bearing seed, and the fruit trees yielding fruit after his
kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.

Gen 1:12 And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding
seed after his kind, and trees yielding fruit, whose seed was in
itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.

Gen. 1:29 And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb
bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and
every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to
you it shall be for meat.

Gen. 1:30 And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl
of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth,
wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat:
and it was so.

Gen. 1:31 And God saw every thing that he had made, and,
behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning
were the sixth day.
WHAT DOES THE AMERICAN
DICTIONARY TELL US

According to the, AMERICAN FUNK & WAGNALL STANDARD


DESK DICTIONARY ' 1969 edition “, gives the meaning of the
two words listed here below;

ELDER means, 1. “A shrub of the honeysuckle family, with


white flowers and purple-black or red berries.” 2. “ Any trees
or plants resembling this shrub.”

ELDERBERRY means, 1. “ The berry of the elder, used to make


wine..” 2. “ The elder.”

Here in this dictionary, it really does not tell us, or gives us full
details of this, plants.
WHAT DOES THE ENGLISH
OXFORD STANDARD
DICTIONARY TELL US

While in the, ENGLISH OXFORD STANDARD DICTIONARY, gives


us this meaning;

ELDERBERRY means, 1. “ The bluish black or red berry of the


elder, used for making jelly or wine.”

2. “ An elder tree or shrub.”

Here also in this dictionary we are not given full details of


what, “ Elderberry ”, really is.
COMMON NAMES

LATIN NAMES:

Sambucus nigra

SOME COMMON NAMES:

European elderberries
Black elder

Elderberry

Elder flower

Sambucus

Elder

In addition to the black elderberry, there are several other


varieties that are available as well. Some of the most common
include these that are listed below:

. Black lace elderberry

. Red elderberry
. Adams elderberry

. Lemon lace elderberry

. Black beauty elderberry

. Blue elderberry

. York elderberry
WHAT IS
ELDERBERRY FRUIT?

Although there is no one size fits all remedy for illness and
diseases, supporters of elderberry fruit say that the fruit is
one of nature's most versatile solutions for what ails you.

There are roughly about 30 different types of elder plants and


trees around the world. The Sambucus nigra which is also
known as (The European version), is the most closely tied to
our health and healing. With the history of dating back as far
as 400 B.C., and most historians typically trace its healing
abilities back to the Greek doctor Hipocrates, the “Father of
Medicine,” has called this tree as his, “Medical chest,”
because of the wide array of health concerns it seemed to
treat.

Whether we are talking about cavemen, ancient Egyptians or


the ancient Greeks, the ability of this fruit to heal this remedy
definitely goes way back, which is why it is no wonder that
this plant is known as one of the top antiviral herbs on our
planet.

Today in folk medicine, the elderberry fruit is considered as


one of the world's most healing plant because of its many
healing properties.

This flowering plant that belongs to the Adoxaceae family.


There are many different varieties of elderberry, but the most
commonly used is the Sambucus nigra, or the black elder,
because it is the most closely linked to healing. It is native to
Europe and this tree can grow up to 30 to 32 feet tall. The
black elderberry has clusters of white flowers and has black
fruit, which has various culinary and many medical uses.

The flowers of this tree have a slight muscat flavor and these
can be eaten raw or it can be cooked. They can be infused and
made into tea or it can be boiled with sugar to make a sweet
syrup. You can also use these fresh flowers to make a salad.

But on the other hand, many people find that the elderberry
fruit is quite sour and it needs to be cooked before eating it.

The European Elder plant with white petals.


The elderberry, which is called the elder, genus of about 10
different kind of species of shrubs and small trees. Most are
native to forested temperate or subtropical areas of both the
Northern and Southern hemisphere.

These plants are important as garden shrubs, as forest plants,


and are used for their berries, which also provide food for
wildlife, can can be used for jellies, jams, wines, pies, and for
medicine.

Like I mentioned prior the elderberry fruit is native to Africa,


Europe and parts of Asia, but it has become common in the
United States as well. It has decisuous leaves, white flowers,
also known as, “elderflowers”, and berries that turn from a
green to red and to bluish purple and to black when it is ripe.

This plant is commonly found growing in woodlands and


hedgerows.
THERE ARE MANY WAYS
TO CONSUME & USE ELDERBERRY

Here listed below are the many ways that you can consume
and to use Elderberry fruit.
. Astringent

. Capsules

. Infusions

. Jams and Jellies

. Juice

. Liquids

. Lozenges

. Ointments

. Pills
. Powder

. Sprays

. Teas

. Wines

. Gummies

Just as uses of elderberry are broad, the forms it comes in are


many. Processed versions of elderberry are more common in
the American market than the fresh fruit itself.
PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

The Elderberry Plant

The Elderberry plants are deciduous and are commonly many


trunked shrubs or small trees and small bushes. The pinnately
compound leaves are borne oppositely along the stems and
have toothed leaflets.

These plants produce flat to roundish clusters of tiny


yellowish white saucer shaped flowers that are followed by a
small red, bluish black, black, or yellow berries.

The Elderberry trees and shrubs can rapidly become


naturalized in an area, and some are considered invasive
species outside their native range.
HEALTH BENEFITS
OF ELDERBERRY FRUIT

HEALTH BENEFITS:

The flowers and berries of the elderberry are packed with


vitamins as well as antioxidants that may boost your immune
system. They could also tame inflammation, lessen stress, and
also help in protecting your heart as well. Many doctors and
experts recommend elderberry fruit to help prevent and ease
colds and flu symptoms.

In the past it has also been used as a treatment for the


following listed here below:

. Joint pain

. Muscle pain

. Constipation

. Infections that affect how you breath

. Fever
. Headaches

. Kidney problems

. Stress

. Epilepsy

. Minor skin conditions

. HIV

. AIDS

. Sinus issues

. Nerve pain
. Inflammation

. Chronic fatigue

. Different allergies

. Cancer

HISTORICALLY SPEAKING; different parts of this plant have


been used for many different purposes. The BARK was used as
a laxative and a diuretic, the LEAVES and FLOWERS were used
to treat pain, swelling, urinary infections, inflammation, and
even to induce swelling. Today, DRIED BERRIES are used in
many folk medicines to alleviate the symptoms of headaches,
flu, and dental pain among others.

These elderberries are also packed with Vitamin C and dietary


fibers, that accounts for their high nutritional value and the
potential to strengthen the immune system. These plants are
also rich in:

. Flavonols

. Anthucyanins

. Antioxidants

that remove free radicals from the body and prevent damage
to the cells.

COLDS AND FLU RELIEF

One of the most well studied elderberry supplement benefits


is its powerful immune boosting properties. These
elderberries contain chemical compounds that is called
anthocyanidins, that have been found to possess
immunostimulant properties.
A study in 2009 randomized patients into 2 groups. One group
was given four doses of 175 milligram proprietary elderberry
extract daily and the other group received a placebo for two
days.

The group that was treated with elderberry showed great


improvement in most signs of flu, while the placebo group
showed no sign of improvement in symptom severity. The
scientists concluded that the extract is effective in controlling

the influenza symptoms.

A study that was published in 2016 in the Nutrients has shown


that elderberry supplements was able to reduce cold duration
and symptoms in people that used air travel. People using this
herb from 10 days before travel until 4 to 5 days after arrival
overseas experienced, no average, 2 day shorter duration of
their cold as well as a noticeable reduction in cold symptoms.
Research in elderberry has actually showed that elderberry is
a safe,efficient and cost effective treatment for the common
cold and flu.

Taking elderberry supplements have been shown to greatly


improve cold and flu symptoms. In a same above study which
was done they found that elderberry extract capsules that
was taken on a daily basis eased the cold and flu symptoms
and sped up the recovery time process.

In another study that was done and was published in 2019

showed that black elderberry fruit substantially reduced


upper respiratory symptoms. These findings seem promising
when it comes to research on how the immune system and
respiratory health may benefit from these elderberry
supplements.

In a 2021 systematic review screened 1,187 records and five


randomized trials on elderberry for the treatment or
prevention of viral respiratory illness. The scientists have
found that elderberry may reduce the duration and severity of
symptoms that is related to colds and influenza, and they
found that there was no evidence that it overstimulates the
immune system.

Several other studies that was done have found benefits to


support the use of elderberries for flu symptoms as well.
Specifically, the flavonoids that are in the berries bind to the
H1N1 human influenza virus as well as the H5N1 avian
influenza virus.

Another study that was done which was published in the


Journal of International Medical Research referenced above
suggested that when elderberry is used within the first 48
hours of the onset of signs of flu, it can shorten the duration
of the flu symptoms by an average of four days.

ELDERBERRY REDUCES SINUS INFECTION SYMPTOMS


Elderberry with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
properties, it makes good sense that elderberry it can help
treat sinus issues and diseases related to respiratory health. A
sinus infection is a condition in which the cavities around the
nasal passages become inflamed, and this antiviral herb has
promise as a sinus infection remedy.

There was a study that was conducted by the Institute of


Complementary Medicine's Department of Internal Medicine
at the University Hospital in Zurich, Switzerland examined the
use of a product called, “Sinupret”, which contains elderberry

extract. The scientists used Sinupret to treat bacterial sinusitis


along with an antibiotic, (doxycycline or vibramycin) and a
decongestant. Interestingly enough, those who took the
combination did better compared to those who did not take
Sinupret at all.

ELDERBERRY LOWERS BLOOD SUGAR


According to the researchers both the elder flower and the
berry have traditionally been used to treat diabetes. Many
research has confirmed that extracts of elderflower stimulate
glucose metabolism and secretion of insulin, which could
potentially help lower blood sugar levels.

Research published in the Journal of Nutrition evaluated black


elderberry's insulin like and insulin releasing action in vitro.

The research found that an aqueous extract of elder


significantly increased glucose transport, glucose oxidation
and glycogenesis without any added insulin.

Glycogenesis is the process by which the excess sugar is


cleared out of the bloodstream ans into your muscles and liver
to help maintain normal blood sugar.

There was an animal study in 2017 that was published in the


International Journal of Molecular Science That noted that
elderberries can serve as a potential source of bioactive
compounds for formulations used for the management of
diabetes. However, researchers and scientists have found that
both lipophilic and polar extracts of the elderberries lowered
insulin resistance in rats that had type 2 diabetes.

ELDERBERRY ACTS AS A NATURAL DIURETIC

What is a diuretic? Diuretic is a substance that promotes the


production of urine. Elderberry research has indicated that

elder leaves, flowers and the berries were used for their
diuretic properties in rural populations as natural medicine.
Even the bark of the plant was used for its diuretic and

slimming effects.

Many medical doctors prescribe diuretics when the human


body retains too much fluids, which is a common problem
with older people. Thanks to its ability to act as a safe diuretic,
elderberry has been shown to promote both urination and
bowel moments to help protect against fluid retention and
buildup.

ELDERBERRY PROMOTE REGULARITY

We are told that in Traditional or Folk Medicine, that the elder


plant was used as a laxative to relieve constipation. It was
added to herbal mixtures to improve regularity.

Many research has suggested that elderberry tea benefits


constipation and it can help to support regularity and

digestive health. A small randomized study has found that a

specific compound containing elderberries along with several


other plants could act as an effective natural laxative for the
treatment of constipation.
ELDERBERRY SUPPORTS SKIN HEALTH

Yes, elderberries has some how made its way into cosmetic
products, around the world, and for a good reason. Its content
of bioflavonoids, antioxidants and vitamin A makes it great for
skin health. Not only that, but scientists also suspect that a
compound found in the berry itself could give a natural boost
to skin.

Anthocyanin is a type of natural p0lant pigment found in


elderberry that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory
and antioxidant properties. Some scientists suspect that this
compound may improve the skin's structure and condition to
enhance overall skin health. Good news for people who want
perfect looking skin.

ELDERBERRY EASES ALLERGIES

Edible berry extract like elderberry extract are very rich in


anthocyanins and they have been shown to have a large
spectrum of therapeutic, pharmacologic and anti-carcinogenic
properties. In vitro studies that was done specifically indicate
that the elderberry has some chemopreventive properties,
which can help to inhibit, reverse or delay cancer formation.

In one study that was done published in the Journal of


Medicinal Food compared the anticancer properties of
European and American elderberry fruit. The European
elderberry which is known for its medicinal use and contains
anthocyanins, flavonoids and other polyphenolics, that all
contribute to the high antioxidant capacity of its berries. The
American elderberry has not been grown or promoted as a
medicinal plant like its European relative.

In this study researchers tested extracts of both berries to


assess the anticancer potential and have found that both

berries have demonstrated significant Chemopreventive


potenrial. The American elder extract showed inhibition of
ornithine decarboxylase, which is a enzyme marker related to
the promotion stage of cancer formation.

Thus, the elderberry has shown good potential as a cancer


fighting food.

ELDERBERRY MAY IMPROVE CARDIO AND HEART HEALTH

Though many studies have been found to have mixed results,


many research suggests that the elderberry extract may
improve heart health.

A study that was done found that elderberry extract may have
some beneficial effects on high blood pressure, When
polyphenols extracted from the plant were administrated
with renin inhibitors rats with hypertension, they reduced
arterial pressure.
Scientists and researchers both suggest that using polyphenols
to lower blood pressure may also help to reduce the side
effects of blood pressure lowering medications and improve
the overall quality of life for humans.

Elderberry plants and trees contain high levels of antioxidants,


that can help to prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular
disease.
According to one study that was done and was published in
2017, stated that elderberry plays an important role in
stimulating the immune system and reducing high blood
pressure.

This study has also shown that the elderberry helps to prevent
diabetes and reduce the levels of uric acid in the blood. The
high accumulation of uric acid in the body can cause gout,
which is a form of arthritis which can be extremely painful.

It can also cause the development of stones in the kidney, so


using elderberry supplements can combat multiple issues.
ELDERBERRY NUTRITION

ELDERBERRY FACTS ON NUTRITION

Elderberry is high in vitamin C ( 52.2 milligrams per cup ), and


dietary fiber (10.2 grams per cup).
The ripe berry is tart and typically sweetened, similar to
cranberries.

One cup of elderberry contains and provides:

. 26.7 grams of carbohydrates

. 0.7 grams of fat

. 1 gram of protein

. 106 calories

. 10 grams of fiber

. 52 milligrams of Vitamin C
. 2.3 milligrams of iron

. 406 milligrams of potassium

. Raw berries are 80% water

. High in vitamin A

. High in vitamin B6

. High in vitamin E

. Zinc

Among several other essential nutrients.


Elderberry, “IS NOT THE SAME” as The American Elder,
Elderflower, or Dwarf Elder, and these “WILL NOT” provide
the same intended benefits of elder.

However, in the United States, dietary supplements are not


regulated like drugs are, meaning that the Food and Drug
Administration, or the (FDA) does not approve them for safety
and effectiveness before the products are marketed by
companies. When possible, choose a supplement that is
tested by a trusted third party, such as USP, ConsumerLabs, or
NSF.

Therefore, it is very important to talk with your doctor,


healthcare provider. About any supplements that you plan to
take and check in about potential interactions with other
medications and supplements.

It is always advised to check with your doctors before taking


any supplements or medications that might react with your
body's health.
HOW TO USE
ELDERBERRY FRUIT

HOW TO USE

Are you wondering where to buy elderberry and how to start


adding it to your diet?
Elderberry is available at many local health stores and online
retailers and can be purchased in a variety of different forms.

You can buy elderberry gummies, elderberry wine and


elderberry juice which are all very popular options for getting
your fix of this incredible ingredient.

When it comes to flu and colds and upper respiratory issues,


elderberry syrup is very popular with many people. There are
many high quality brands that are readily available on the
market for purchase, or you can find many of these products
online, or resources for how to make elderberry syrup to try
making it at home.

Most of the elderberry syrup recipe options that are on the


internet involve simmering elderberries with a bit of water
and a variety of other healing herbs for 45 minutes to 60
minutes.

The elderberry tea, that I find is a great option, especially


if you use this plant and berries for colds and flu symptoms.
You can in the store either buy tea bags or you can purchase
dried elderberries or flower and make a tea by combining one
tablespoon of dried berries or flower with 8 ounces of water.
Try adding lemon, cinnamon or mint to give the flavour and
health benefits a hearty boost.

IF YOU ARE NOT, a fan of hot teas or black elderberry syrup?


Then you can also try elderberry juice, which is sweet, tart and
refreshing. JUST BE SURE not to purchase one that has too
much added sugar.

IN OTHER USES

The berries can be mixed with grapes for jelly and jams, or can
be combined with apples as a pie filling. In some areas the
juice is traditionally fermented into wine. The unopened
flower buds are sometimes pickled as a substitute for capers,
and the flowers themselves are made into a flavouring syrup.
In folk medicine, the elderberries have been touted as a
remedy for stomach upsets, as an eye lotion, as a salve for
bruises, and as a diuretic.

Supplements use should be individualized and vetted by a


doctor, healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian,
pharmacist, doctor, or a healthcare professional. REMEMBER
THAT supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent any
disease.

Elderberry juice syrup has been used for centuries as a home


remedy for viral illnesses, like the common cold and flu. Some
scientists have suggested that the syrup shortens the duration
of some illnesses and makes them less severe.
SIDE EFFECTS, RISKS
AND INTERACTIONS ONE

Despite the many health benefits that are associated with this
medicinal plant, there are several elderberry side effects that
you have to consider as well.
Ripe, cooked berries from most of the Sambucus species are
edible. However, you should not consume raw berries or
other parts of the plant since they contain a cyanide indusing
chemical, which can result in:

. Vomiting

. Nausea

. Diarrhea

. Stomachache

. Abdominal cramping

. Weakness

. Dizziness
You should get medical attention if you get or develop these
above symptoms after consuming elderberry.

Elderberries should always be cooked and processed before it


is consumed.

Other plant parts of the plant should be avoided as they


contain naturally occurring chemical compounds, which
releases the poison hydrogen cyanide.

THESE PLANT PARTS include the:

. Bark

. Leaves

. Roots
. Stems

Generally, commercial preparations do not cause adverse


reactions when used at recommended dosages.

Elderberry appears to have few side effects when it is used


properly for short periods of time or up to 5 days.
Occasionally, however, elderflowers and elderberries can
cause allergic reactions.

Discontinue the use if you have a mild allergic reaction, and


seek some medical attention if you have a serious allergic
reaction.

Using the elderberry supplements for children IS NOT


RECOMMENDED unless you have talked with your
pediatrician.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, DO NOT TAKE this
herb,as research is lacking on its effect on fetal health and
development.

If you have an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid


arthritis, ask your medical provider before taking elderberry
supplements because it may stimulate the immune system,

and its process. Again if you have any other ongoing health
concerns, talk with your medical doctor before taking it as
well.

People with organ transplants should NOT TAKE elderberry.


Because of its powerful effects on health. Elderberry
supplements could potentially interact with several
medications that are on the market.

If you are taking any of the following medications, you should


talk with your family doctor before using an elderberry
supplement or any other elderberry plant products:

. Chemotherapy
. Diabetes medications

.Diuretics (water pills)

. Immunosuppressants, including corticosteroids (prednisone),


and medications that are used to treat autoimmune disease.

. Laxatives

. Theophylline (TheoDur)

OPTIONS VARY, on whether elderberry is helpful, but most


doctors and researchers believe that it is safe to have in small
doses.
But the unripe or uncooked berries or the flowers from the
plant can cause, diarrhea, nausea and also vomiting. Large
amounts can cause even more serious poisoning.
Other things you have to keep in mind:

. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, than you should not


take it.

. Many other parts of this plant, that includes;

– Branches

– Twigs

– Roots

– Leaves

– seeds

are toxic. They have a kind of cyanide called glycoside that is


actually is toxic.

. All people with immune problems might have reactions to


this plant.
. If you get a rash or have trouble breathing after taking this
plant, you might be allergic to it.

. Because this plant it is a diuretic, you must be careful when


you take it, if you are also using medicines that make you
urinate more.

TALK with your doctor or healthcare professional if you are


thinking about taking elderberry.

Elderberry plant.
TAKING PRECAUTIONS

ELDERBERRY

The elderberry use is considered safe for up to 12 weeks.


However, some groups of people should avoid elderberries.
This includes the following:

. People who are pregnant and are breastfeeding. So far we


have no information and data evaluating elderberry safety in
this group.

. There are no safety data on the use of elderberry in children


that are under the age of 5 years old.

. People with certain autoimmune disease should avoid taking


elderberry. Elderberry can theoretically exacerbate symptoms
of an autoimmune disease, as it may stimulate more activity
in the immune system. Again you should consult your family
doctor before taking elderberry.
INTERACTIONS TWO

The elderberry plant and berries may reduce the effectiveness


of immune suppressants, that are common medications for
some people who have undergone organ transplant
procedures.

Immune suppressants are also used for other conditions and


the common ones include these listed here:

– CellCept (mycophenolate)

– Corticosteroid drugs (prednisone)

– Enbrel (etanercept)

– Humira (adalimumab)

– Imuran (azathioprine)

– Methotrexate

– OKT3 (muromonab-CD3)

– Prograf (tacrolimus)

– Rapamune (sirolimus)

– Sandimmune (cyclosporine)

– Simulect (basiliximab)

– Zinbryta (daclizumab)
HOW YOU CAN STORE
ELDERBERRY

HERE IS HOW TO STORE ELDERBERRY


Keep elderberry in a cool, dry place.

Supplements should always be stored out of the reach of


children and pets to prevent accidental consumption.

Keep your supplements stored according to the instructions


that is on the product label.

Fresh elderberries may last longer if it is stored in the


refrigerator.
DOSAGE TO TAKE
HOW MUCH ELDERBERRY SHOULD I TAKE?

There is no standard recommendation for dosing elderberry.

Elderberry extract seems or appears to be safe when it is


taken in small doses. Talking great amounts of elderberry to
what is recommended could be more likely to result in
undesirable side effects, in other words could be too toxic.

In clinical trials, adults have taken 3 teaspoons of elderberry


extract four times daily for five days.

NOTE: that 1 tablespoon is equal to 3 teaspoons.

This dosage applies to syrups with elderberry. Since there is


no standard dosage, consult your family doctor or your
pharmacist and read the dosage directions on the product
label before you take it.

There are no standard recommended amounts for elderberry


in tablets, gummies, or tea.

THE BREAKDOWN ON DOSAGE


Since there are a variety of different forms of elderberry, I will
try to hit on the best dosage on what the experts have
recommended.

ELDERBERRY SYRUP DOSING:

For intensive use:

– Adults: 2 teaspoons 4 times daily

– Children: 1 teaspoon 4 times daily

For daily maintenance:

– Adults: 2 teaspoons daily

– Children: 1 teaspoon daily

EXPRESSED JUICE:
– 1 cup (made from 10 grams of dried berries) 7 times daily

LOZENGES:

For Intensive Use:

– Adults: 2 lozenges 3 times daily

– Children: 1 lozenge 4 times daily

For daily maintenance:

– Adults: 1 lozenge 2 times daily

– Children: 1 lozenge daily


FOOD SOURCES
OF ELDERBERRY

YOU CAN BUY

You can buy dried berries online and in health food stores.
If you want to buy fresh berries, be sure to buy them from a
respectable source.

It is never safe to eat unknown berries in nature, as these


berries can have dangerous effects.

If you have eaten an unknown berry and develop concerning


symptoms, you must get immediate medical attention.
ELDERBERRY SOURSES & WHAT TO
LOOK FOR

The Elderberry

Elderberries have long been cultivated for food and to make


natural medicines.
Here are some products on the market that is available in
many forms, including:

– Capsules

– Gummies

– Syrup

– Teas

– Tinctures

– Tonics

– Tropical ointments

In addition to the various forms of elderberry, elderberry is


available as a single supplement or in combination with other
nutrients.

Here is an example: several forms are marketed for immune


support, and that they contain vitamin C, zinc, vitamin A, or
vitamin E.

This is especially important with elderberry products. One


study that was done evaluating elderberry products that is on
the market has found that many did not contain any
elderberry. Instead, they contained elderflower or were
adulterated with other ingredients, such as black rice extract
or purple carrot extract.

Dietary supplements are not regulated like conventional food


products or drugs in the United States.

Third party testing would double check that the product's


contents match what is on the label and indicate a more
trustworthy product.
HOW MUCH DO
WE KNOW ABOUT ELDERBERRY?

– A number of small studies that was done in people have


evaluated that elderberry for flu and other upper
respiratory infections. Very little research has been done
on other uses of elderberry.

>IIIIII<
WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED
ABOUT ELDERBERRY?

– There were some preliminary research that was done


that suggested that elderberry may relieve symptoms of
colds and flu or upper respiratory infections.

– So far there was no published research studies that has


evaluated the use of elderberry for COVID-19. The U.S.
Food and Drug Administeration and the Federal Trades
Commission have taken action against companies that
market products with unsubstantiated claims of
effectiveness for COVID-19.

– There is not enough information to show whether


elderberry is helpful for any other health purposes. Still
more test is needed in this area.
WHAT DO WE KNOW
ABOUT SAFETY?

– We know that raw unripe elderberries and other parts of


the elder tree, such as the stems and leaves, contain toxic
substances, (example, sambunigrin), that can cause
vomiting, nausea and diarrhea; but cooking elberries
eliminate this toxin. Large quantities of the toxin may
cause serious illness.

– Little is known about whether it is safe to use elderberry


during pregnancy and while a person is breastfeeding.

> IIII <


HOW TO CARE AND GROW
ELDERBERRY TREES

SAMBUCUS NIGRA

Despite the name, the elderberry tree (Sambucus nigra), has


has a shrub type of growth. It can be easily identified by its
serrated leaves which grows in groups of three to nine leaves
on each side of the stem. The elderberry tree has a modern
growth rate of 6 to 12 feet in the first few years of its growth.

You may have to wait about 2 to 3 years after the planting


before it bears any fragrant, waxy white flowers in the spring
and fruits in the autumn.

RAW ELDERBERRIES, if you eat them it can be very toxic to


humans, even to cats and dogs. So try to keep your pets or
small children away from this plant.
INFORMATION ON CONDITIONS:

Soil Type: Moist, well drained

Soil pH: Neutral, acidic

Bloom Time: Spring

Hardiness Zone: 3-9 (USDA)

Native Areas: Europe, Africa, North America

Toxicity: Toxic (when it is raw), to humans, cats and dogs


HOW TO PLANT ELDERBERRY

WHEN TO PLANT

If you are deciding on planting any elderberry shrubs or buy it


from the nursery it has to be at lease a year old, put them in
the ground in the spring after the last threat of frost, if you
live in the northern regions of the United States.

SELECTING A PLANTING SITE

Elderberries are not finicky plants and the shrubs tolerate


many different environments. Choose an open area that gets
plenty of full sun a day to grow the best flowers and berries.
An open area will also help the plants benefit from better air
circulation.

SPACING, DEPTH, SUPPORT

These plants and bushes have shallow roots that are almost
mat-like in their growth pattern.

Continuous weeding is very vital as elderberries can not


compete well with other aggressive weeds.
THE ELDERBERRY
TREE CARE

THE ELDERBERRY TREE

The elderberry tree grows plentifully in the wild, and


depending on the different types of elderberry. These plants
can be found growing along river banks throughout the
western and eastern parts of North America.

When they are grown in gardens, the elderberry shrubs need


a slightly different environment to grow.

LIGHT

Elderberry plants, shrubs and trees prefer full sunlight, which


will result in the most flowers and berries. Partial shade is also
fine if you are not anticipating buds or fruits.

SOIL

Elderberry shrubs, plants and trees are not very fussy but
these plants will do best in moist, well-drained, and
moderately acidic soil. An elderberry plant will also do well in
clay soil but only if it is well-draining. They need moisture
around the roots to be absorbed.

WATER

Give the elderberry shrubs about 1 to 2 inches of water per


week specially in the summer.

A new shrub will need more water because its roots are so
shallow that it can not access water from deep in the ground.

For young plants, water 2 inches per week in the warm


weather. Applying about 2 to 3 inches of mulch around the
plants this will help the soil retain the moisture and will also
serve as an organic, slow-release fertilizer.

HUMIDITY & TEMPERATURE


This is a hardy bush and it does not require a specific humidity
and temperature level. This plant prefers to be cooler than
sweltering.

FERTILIZER

Fertilizing an elderberry plant is not necessary when it is


planted. However, after its first year of growth, you might
want to fertilize it on a yearly bases in the early spring.

Fertilizing any older elderberry bushes can be a bit


challenging. Younger and smaller plants may need more
nitrogen-rich fertilizer to stimulate its growth, while the older
plants require much less nitrogen if they are vigorous
producers.

Always test the soil before applying any of the fertilizer to


make sure that there is an actual nutrient deficiency in the soil
that is needed to be treated.

POLLINATION
The elderberry plants, trees, as well as shrubs are typically
wind pollinated.

However, gardeners can manually cross pollinate bushes by


planting at least two different type of cultivars no farther than
20 feet away from each other.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF
ELDERBERRY TREES

There are different types of elderberries and within those


types are numerous varieties.

These types include the following below:


– RED ELDERBERRY (Sambucus racemona)

– BLUE ELDERBERRY (Sambucus mexicana)

Many different nurseries offer a variety of elderberry plants,


example; trees, plants and also small bushes. Depending on
where you are located.

If you have a preferred use in mind, be sure to ask if the


variety that you want to by is suitable. Here are three popular
varieties of plants:

. YORK: is an American elderberry that produces large berries.


It is typically pollinated with “Nova”. This shrub grows an
average height of 6 feet tall and wide.

. NOVA: is a plant that is pollinated with “York”, this American


elderberry variety offer large, sweet berries and it grows to 6
feet tall.
. ADAM NO. 1 and ADAM NO. 2: These plants are an old
cultivars and there are some tweaks to the original “Adam”,

but both are very reliable and productive fruiting varieties


with small, sweet berries.

Elderberry and leaves.


HARVESTING ELDERBERRIES

THE ELDERBERRY

The elderberry is a great flowering tree and it has many


different uses.
Elderberries are harvested to be thoroughly cooked and
prepared for pies, jam, jellies, syrup and different blend of
wines, and are also used in tinctures for flu and cold remedies.

The berries will be ready to be harvest in the late summer or


in the early autumn when they are rich, dark purple/black and
are slightly soft.

There are many individual gardeners that like to use the


elderberry flowers in a calming potpourri mix because of its
relaxing fragrance. The flowers of the elderberry tree should
be harvested once the entire cluster has opened.

Simply snip off the entire cluster of flowers. Be careful when


you are harvesting flowers because if you take off too many
blooms, it will impede the fruiting process and will shock the
tree.
PRUNING

PRUNING THE ELDERBERRY TREE

As the shrub ages, it will need to be pruned.


Older canes will not be able to produce as much fruit on their
tips as they used to so these stems, along with dead ones, will
need to be trimmed and pruned in late winter to early spring
so that the bush does not waste too much of its energy on
supporting non producing wood.

The shrubs can produce suckers and runners, so it is very


important to remove ant unwanted shoots or they may take
over your garden area.

> IIIII <


PROPAGATING
ELDERBERRY TREES

PROPAGATING

Propagating the elderberry trees is easily done by berry


eating birds that drop the seeds that they eat from the fruit.
These seeds usually take root and produce healthy trees.
However, seeds that are manually harvested and propagated
will not always sprout.

HERE LISTED BELOW are some easy steps that you can take to
propagate elderberries with cutting in water:

. Using a sterilized gardening cutting tool, cut a 4 to 6 inch


cutting of softwood, (a soft branch with some spring to it), in
early spring. The cuttings should be soft and should be a bit of
green, but more browner.

. Remove the leaves from the bottom but leave one set of
leaves at the top of the cutting.

. Dip the bottom end in some rooting hormone.


. Place the cutting in a jar of fresh, clean water. Make sure the
bottom half of the cutting is covered by some water.

. Put the jar in a sunny area for about 6 to 8 weeks.

. Change the water that is in the jar frequently.

. Roots will form in around 2 months of soaking. The roots will


be quite sensitive so keep the cutting out of the ground or soil
for a couple of weeks until the plant's roots are strong enough
to be placed into the soil.

> III <


COMMON PESTS AND
PLANT DISEASES

ADAM NO. 1 Variety


COMMON PESTS AND PLANT DISEASES

It is not easy to destroy an elderberry tree, shrub or plant.

You will not encounter too many pests or diseases other than
the typical:

– Aphids

– Mealybugs

– Elder shoot borer (Moths)

– Scale

– Canker

– Leaf spot

– Powdery mildew
THIS IS A FREE
E-BOOK

ENJOY!

You might also like