Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a flower that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The health benefits of hibiscus are many and varied and include the ability to lower blood pressure, improve digestion, boost immunity, and help with weight loss.
Hibiscus tea is made from the dried petals of the hibiscus flower and is a popular drink in many cultures. The tea has a tart, slightly sweet flavor and is rich in antioxidants. Studies have shown drinking hibiscus tea can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Hibiscus tea is also a good source of vitamin C, which can help boost immunity.
Hibiscus extract can also help aid digestion. One study found that taking hibiscus extract before meals helped reduce bloating and gas. The extract can also help relieve constipation and diarrhea.
Hibiscus has also been shown to boost metabolism and help with weight loss. One study found that taking hibiscus extract increased fat burning during exercise by up to 16 percent. Hibiscus extract is also a good source of fiber, which can help promote weight loss by making you feel fuller.
Elderberry benefits
Elderberry is a shrub used as a medicinal plant for centuries. It's a fast-growing bush with berries and flowers that have various properties. There are varieties of elder plants, including red, blue, black, and purple.
The European elder (Sambucus nigra) is the most popular, also known as Common Elderberry or Black Elder. Red Elderberry has been traditionally used to treat cold and flu symptoms thanks to its high concentration of vitamin C, ascorbic acid, and anthocyanins.
As we go over elderberry's benefits, remember that these are not all-encompassing. Elderberry is also a great source of manganese, iron, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, and flavonoids. These nutrients work together to make elderberry beneficial for the human body.
There are several benefits of elderberry you should be aware of:
Elderberries have a high vitamin C content, making them great for general immune boosting.
Anthocyanin, a flavonoid found in elderberries, is effective in treating allergies. Elderberries also have significant amounts of iron and zinc, essential for healthy immune function.
Elderberries have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which makes them helpful for people with digestive issues such as diarrhea.
Elderberry for a Healthy Immune System Elderberry is an excellent herbal remedy for increasing the immune system. Elderberries are high in anthocyanin, a flavonoid shown to have antiviral and antibacterial properties. This natural compound is as effective as some common flu medications.
For example, a 2012 study found that a freeze-dried powder of black elderberry was as effective as oseltamivir (known as Tamiflu) at reducing flu symptoms.
Elderberry for the Digestive Tract Elderberries can be used as a natural remedy for digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation. The anthocyanin in elderberries works as an anti-inflammatory agent in the body, which can help with diarrhea by reducing intestinal spasms.
This compound in elderberries may also help constipation by increasing short-chain fatty acids in the gut. These acids are essential for keeping the gut healthy and promoting regular bowel movements.
Red currant
Red currants are also known as red gooseberries. They are small berries that have a tart and sour taste. They're native to Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa but are grown in other areas for their fruit. Red currants have been used in traditional medicines for centuries.
Additionally, new research indicates that red currant has the potential to be an essential source of health-promoting phytonutrients called anthocyanins (also found in blueberries). Read on to learn more about red currants and their health benefits.
Red currants are low in calories and cholesterol and sodium free. Red currants contain potassium, manganese, vitamin C, and iron. Vitamin C. Vitamin C supports immune function, blood vessel integrity, and collagen formation. It is also required to produce collagen, vital for skin health. Potassium is a mineral that is important for controlling blood pressure and managing disease risk.
Red currants are a decent source of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber can help promote healthy digestion and gut bacteria. Additionally, red currants contain anthocyanins, plant pigments with antioxidant activity in vitro.
Cranberries
Cranberry, also known as red or European cranberry, is a small fruit with brilliant reddish-purple color that grows in cold regions. It has numerous health benefits and antioxidants. This nutritious fruit is rich in anthocyanins and other antioxidants, which may help improve overall health.
Cranberries also provide minerals like potassium and dietary fiber. They can also help increase immunity, promote healthy skin, and check blood sugar levels.
Cranberries are extremely rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that help protect against free radical damage. A study found that drinking cranberry juice daily may lower blood pressure in just two weeks.
Another study found that people with high cholesterol who drank 12 ounces of cranberry juice daily for eight weeks reduced their cholesterol levels by 7%. Moreover, a separate study found that people with type 2 diabetes who drank 12 ounces of cranberry juice daily for two months significantly lowered their blood sugar levels.
