The Surprising Health Benefits Of Elderberry

Nature’s Cancer Fighter

In addition to its variety of health benefits for common conditions, such as colds, allergies, and sinus infections, elderberry extract is known for being rich in anthocyanins and has been proven to have a broad range of therapeutic, pharmacologic, and anti-carcinogenic properties. Lab studies have specifically shown the elderberry has some chemopreventive properties, meaning the elderberry can delay or reverse cancerous formations. One particular study in the Journal of Medicinal Food compared the anticancer properties of the European and American elderberry fruits. The European elderberry is known for containing anthocyanins, flavonoids, and polyphenolics, which all contribute to the high-antioxidant properties this superfruit has, while the American elderberry displayed inhibition of ornithine decarboxylase, an enzyme related to the promotional stage of cancer formation. Overall, the study proved both the European and American elderberry strands have potential as a natural cancer treatment, and both demonstrated significant chemopreventive potential.

Continue reading to learn more about the elderberry’s wide variety of health benefits including promoting healthy skin and lowering blood sugar.