Uses for Elderberry Juice

High in antioxidants, elderberries have been used as folk remedies for centuries in Europe, North America, Africa and Asia. In his book "The Green Pharmacy Guide to Healing Foods," James Duke describes elderberry as an herbal shotgun with more than a dozen antibacterial and antiviral compounds. Although the benefits of drinking elderberry juice have not been scientifically proved, many studies have uncovered its positive effects.

Immune Function

• Elderberries have been listed in the CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs since 1985. It is believed that the antioxidants and flavonoids in the juice may help the body ward off diseases and harmful bacteria. Some believe that in boosting the immune system, elderberry juice helps treat diseases like AIDS and cancer.

Fighting Colds and Influenza

• Some herbalists believe that elderberry juice can effectively cure colds, influenza and sinusitis. It was used to treat people suffering during the 1995 flu epidemic in Panama. The juice is most effective when taken at the onset of symptoms. Like most other natural remedies, taking one teaspoonful every hour is more effective than taking a single large dose.

Improves Overall Health

• Its antiviral, antihistamine and antioxidant properties are said to alleviate a number of ailments, including hemorrhoids, constipation and diarrhea. Regular consumption of elderberry juice helps prevent yeast and urinary tract infections. The antioxidants also can help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol, a major contributor to heart attacks and strokes.

Reduces Stress

• Austrian endocrinologist Dr. Sepp Porta conducted stress studies using elderberry concentrate on a group of volunteers. After 10 days, the volunteers were given stress tests with the usual physical challenges. Porta reported that the daily intake of elderberry juice shortened the recovery time and decreased the stress levels of the participants.