Boost your Tea!
Adding dried elderberries to tea can enhance both the flavor and the health benefits of the beverage. Elderberries are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds that offer several potential health benefits. Here are some of the key benefits of adding dried elderberries to your tea:
1. **Immune Support**: Elderberries are renowned for their immune-boosting properties. They contain high levels of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids like quercetin and anthocyanins, which help support the immune system by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation. Drinking elderberry tea may help strengthen the body's defenses against infections and promote overall immune health.
2. **Cold and Flu Relief**: Elderberries have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of the common cold and flu. Research suggests that elderberry extract may help reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms by inhibiting the replication of viruses and stimulating the immune response. Drinking elderberry tea at the onset of illness may help alleviate symptoms such as coughing, congestion, and sore throat.
3. **Antioxidant Protection**: Elderberries are one of the richest sources of antioxidants among fruits. These antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to aging and the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Drinking elderberry tea regularly may help reduce oxidative stress and promote overall health and longevity.
4. **Heart Health**: Some studies suggest that elderberries may have beneficial effects on heart health. The antioxidants found in elderberries may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation in the arteries, and improve circulation, thus lowering the risk of heart disease. Drinking elderberry tea as part of a heart-healthy diet may help support cardiovascular health.
5. **Digestive Health**: Elderberries contain dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Drinking elderberry tea may help promote regularity and alleviate digestive discomforts such as bloating and gas.
6. **Anti-inflammatory Effects**: Elderberries have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Drinking elderberry tea regularly may help support joint health and reduce the risk of chronic inflammation-related diseases.
7. **Skin Health**: The antioxidants and vitamins found in elderberries may help promote healthy skin. Elderberry tea may help protect the skin from damage caused by environmental factors and oxidative stress, reducing the signs of aging and promoting a youthful complexion.
8. **Diuretic Effects**: Elderberries have diuretic properties, meaning they can increase urine production and promote the elimination of excess fluids and toxins from the body. Drinking elderberry tea may help support kidney function and reduce water retention.
When adding dried elderberries to tea, it's essential to use high-quality, organic elderberries to ensure purity and potency. You can steep dried elderberries in hot water for several minutes to extract their beneficial compounds and enjoy as a flavorful and health-promoting beverage. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming elderberry tea, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding, as elderberries may interact with certain medications or have contraindications for certain individuals.
 
About 10 servings per bag by volume.
About 20 servings in the 2 oz bag by volume.