November Herb of the Month: Elderberrry

November can be a little deceiving because it's technically the month of Fall, but be careful! While the leaves are turning (in some parts of the U.S.) and folks are getting into the long-sleeved gear, mold and bacteria are gearing up for flue season. Don't be caught off guard, with a weakened immune system.

Elderberry is a dark blue or purplish looking berry from the elder bush. Found in various parts of North America and Europe, it is known for it's immune boosting properties. The berries have been proven to aid in the resistance to viral infections (particularly influenza and herpes) and is also a great anti-inflammatory herb.

Source: The Pocket Herbal Reference by Rita Elkins, M. H.

Elderberry can be made into a tea using the loose berries, as a tincture (herb is extracted via alcohol infusion) or my favorite, as a concentrate. As a preventative measure, take elderberry as a daily tonic. I actually add the concentrate, which is sweet and tangy, to what ever tea blend I am drinking in the morning. You can also add it to water or juice. I try to get in a morning and evening dose. At least once a day, I make an effort to get about two tablespoons mixed into about 10 oz of room temperature herbal tea, into my system. It tastes great chilled. All of the various elderberry forms can be found at Smile Herbs in College Park, MD (www.smileherb.com), for those of you in

If you decide to steep the berries alone in hot water, try to drink at least two cups a day to stave off colds and flu. If you do get sick, double the dose to help speed recovery. Tinctures can be taken in a little bit of water or juice; follow the recommended dose on the label.

The key to good health is awareness and prevention. Get your immune system ready for winter ailments by starting now.

Take Care,
IA