Elderberry syrup

Elderberry syrup is known as a powerful cold preventative and remedy. Just one cup of berries contains about 40% of the recommended daily value of vitamin C. It's also a great source of antioxidants — which may protect your cells from damage and help prevent heart disease and cancer.

5 main health benefits of elderberry syrup

1. May help to reduce symptoms of the flu One study of 60 patients administered 15ml elderberry or placebo syrup during the flu season in 1999-2000, and those using elderberry saw their flu symptoms ease four days earlier than those using the placebo.

2. May help to support a healthy immune system It may help support a healthy immune system by increasing inflammatory cytokine production – cytokines are a group of proteins that are secreted by specific cells of the immune system. Find out how to prevent a cold.

3. May help to reduce the risk of chronic disease Elderberry is naturally high in vitamin C, the body’s most abundant antioxidant, which not only helps reduce the risk of chronic disease, but may also be good for those with high blood pressure, and prevent iron deficiency anaemia.

4. May offer some neuroprotective benefits The dark black-purple colour of the elderberry means it's a good source of compounds known as anthocyanins, which have been shown to protect the brain.

5. May help to improve exercise performance Elderberry has been shown to improve exercise performance, so this may be also be relevant to those consuming elderberry syrup.