When Mathew was 4 months old, I was introduced to an amazing parenting group that I still utilize from time to time. During the first fours years of his life, I found the Hudson Valley Parents group to be invaluable. At first, I used the group to meet other parents of children the same age as Mathew and go on hikes. Then it became a huge resource for questions like – My kid does this, does yours, what do you do?” or where can I get …? However, one question really changed my life. How do you prepare your family for the cold and flu season? I had a couple of tools in my herbal tool chest but the answer to this one was the most powerful – Elderberry Syrup! Hands-down, I have never utilized a better immune system enhancer than elderberry syrup. Better yet, it is rather tasty too. We start taking it in the fall and throughout the winter, particularly when we travel. I have never found enough elderberries growing near my home to make the syrup, so I buy the syrup at the local health food store.

Elder (Sambucus nigra) is a fantastic antiviral and the way it works is really interesting.  First, you must visualize a virus, which is round and covered with spikes. The virus’ job is to invade the cell by using its spikes to puncture the cell wall.  Elder strengthens the cell wall while neutralizing the spikes on the virus, thus making it more difficult for the virus to invade the cell, BRILLIANT.  By taking elderberry syrup, you are strengthening your immune system so it can fight off cold and flu viruses when you are exposed to them, as well as lessen symptoms and duration of the illness. Elderberry juice was used to treat a flu epidemic in Panama in 1995.

Here’s to a healthy cold and flu season.

All information is shared for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.