Elderberry & Manuka Honey
In vitro studies demonstrate that elderberries possess antiviral, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory properties. Manuka honey demonstrates antimicrobial properties. This simple hot tea recipe combines elderberries and manuka honey with antiviral ginger.
Dried elderberries and manuka honey are easily sourced online.
Elderberry Ginger Manuka Honey Tea
Ingredients:
1/3 cup organic dried elderberries
5 thin slices of peeled fresh organic ginger
6 cups of water
Manuka honey to taste
Steps:
Add water, elderberries, and ginger into a sauce pan
Cover pan and bring to a boil. Allow it to simmer for 30 minutes.
Strain and add manuka honey to taste
Sip several cups of this daily
References:
Roschek B, Jr., Fink RC, McMichael MD, et al. Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro. Phytochemistry. Jul 2009;70(10):1255-1261.
Waknine-Grinberg JH, El-On J, Barak V, et al. The immunomodulatory effect of Sambucol on leishmanial and malarial infections. Planta Med. May 2009;75(6):581-586.
Krawitz C, Mraheil MA, Stein M, et al. Inhibitory activity of a standardized elderberry liquid extract against clinically-relevant human respiratory bacterial pathogens and influenza A and B viruses. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2011;11:16.
Chang JS, Wang KC, Yeh CF, et al. Fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) has anti-viral activity against human respiratory syncytial virus in human respiratory tract cell lines. J Ethnopharmacol.Jan 9 2013;145(1):146-151.