This Tincture has the exact same herbs as my Elderberry Aronia Syrup. The difference is the extraction process and the medium. They are concentrated liquid extracts in Non GMO Vegetable Glycerin (Coconut derived). Making them infant friendly (no honey), and shelf stable for a year (great for traveling!). The favorite for kiddos is definitely the Elderberry Aronia Syrup, but I've found these tinctures extremely handy in many scenarios like the ones mentioned above! They are quite palatable too, as the coconut glycerin is sweet, but the body does but process it as sugar-making it ideal for folks that are diabetic too!
Let's meet the plants!
Elderberries have been used for centuries to help with the immune system. Modern day studies have shown just how effective they are and really brought them to light. I use Sambucus nigra, the species of Elderberry that is the most studied, most used (most effective) and also the best tasting in my opinion. Elderberries have an antioxidant called anthocyanin-which is one of the main reasons it’s so effective. Anthocyanin helps eliminate free radicals. Elderberries also have anti viral properties which have proven to prevent and/or reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms.
Aronia berries have also been used for ages, originally by indigenous people for illness. They have proven themselves in modern day studies to have high polyphenols and antioxidant activity. Similar to Elderberries, they also contain anti viral properties. Their delicate flavor is also delightful. I feel in love with Aronia berries when I learned of their benefits to our intestinal health. We know that when our digestive tract is not performing, we also arent absorbing.
Olive leaf is commonly used for respiratory infections and is antimicrobial. It’s been used to strengthen the immune system as a preventative measure as well as aiding the body to help actively fight bacterial, fungal and viral infections. It works on the cellular level mainly due to its oleuropein. Another great benefit of olive leaf is even though it is antibacterial, it only deactivates bad bacteria while protecting the good bacteria.
Astragalus Root is another gentle herb that has also been used for centuries to help strengthen the immune system. It has been shown to stimulate specific parts of our immune system (lymphocytes and monocytes) which helps the body fight viruses. It is a great source of antioxidants which again help fight off free radicals. Along with it’s antiviral properties it also carries antibacterial properties. It’s also an adaptogen which helps wthe body adapt to excess stress (and we know how stress can affect us) and has even been shown in modern day studies to help protect the liver, kidneys and heart.
Rosehips- aka fruit of the Rose- are pretty incredible. They not only help with the immune system-are packed with vitamins and minerals-but they also help regulate digestion! The have an incredible amount of Vitamin C which helps stimulate white blood cell production. They have a sweet tangy flavor and make a lovely addition to this tincture.
The other herbs are a bit more common, so I won’t go as in depth with them. They are Ceylon Cinnamon, Ginger Root, Cloves and Lemon Peel. It’s important to use Ceylon Cinnamon because other forms of cinnamon (like Cassia) can be harmful in medicinal doses. Ceylon Cinnamon has polyphenols which help fight oxidative stress. Ginger root has a pretty long list of benefits, including being helpful for respiratory issues curing colds and coughs. Cloves also have antiviral, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Last but not least there’s Lemon Peel is also packed with vitamin C!
Hopefully this was informational!