It’s funny how things always come back around. As they say, history repeats itself. Such as elderberry. I remember when these were just considered weeds on the farm – now they’re a superfruit! Luckily I’ve stuck to my roots and have been taking Elderberry daily for years (and also contribute it to why I rarely get sick!). I believe a lot of the things you eat have the potential to really impact your health – either for good or bad.
This is why I have been long time user of elderberry – in fact we used to grow them on the farm. Wait, we didn’t grow them, they were WILD elderberries! Imagine that – this superfruit you pay for growing wild with others like blackberries and raspberries right here in the northeast. There are hundreds, if not thousands of varieties of plants and berries (hence, now being plant-based!) that are really good for you. Many you never hear about because they just don’t have the shelf life to make it from say, Costa Rica to your kitchen in NYC. But elderberries are great for growing in the northeast – just plant in spring once the frost is gone. They’ll usually grow just fine on their own as long as they get lots of water (they don’t like drought).
But, if you’re not a gardener, don’t worry – elderberry is the new superfood, especially now with the pandemic since it has lots of incredible immunity-boosting antioxidants and is relatively easy to find. If everyone isn’t buying it out like toilet paper.
What is Elderberry?
Elderberries have an extremely high concentration of certain flavonoids called anthocyanins which are responsible for the berry’s signature deep purple color. Anthocyanins are powerful antioxidants that work within the immune system to enhance the body’s response and keep it functioning at its best. According to the United States Department of Agriculture the highest concentration of anthocyanins are found in black elderberries, nearly double the amount found in any other fruit.
But note, not all berries are equal.
Always know your product and make sure it’s pure and organic if you’re not growing it. ALWAYS KNOW YOUR SOURCE and trust it.
There are many varieties of elderberries. Similar to wine grapes, the variety in combination with the growing location attributes (such as the soil and elevation) can lead to berries of vastly different color, taste and minerals. Sambucol, one of my favorite, chooses to use only the premium Haschberg variety of European black elderberries (Sambucus Nigra) to make every Sambucol product. Grown in the nutrient-rich soil of Central Europe, these elderberries are the highest in flavonoid compounds called anthocyanins which give the berries their dark color. In fact, their anthocyanin level is nearly double the amount in any other fruit! These compounds provide an extremely high level of antioxidants which can help support our immune systems when consumed.
Where to get Elderberry Syrup and Gummies
Again, trust your source. Here are a few of my favorites:
Sambucol is a great product and comes in lots of varieties such as syrup, gummies and even powders. They also have a kids line! I love them because they come from some of the best plants in Europe with the highest antioxidants. Shop here.
Another good option for a local, shop small brand is Organic Olivia. She is from New Jersey and has a great line of products including a favorite Elderberry Immune Elixir.
I received this product for free from Moms Meet to use andpost my honest opinions. Compensation for this post was provided and this page may contain affiliate links.
