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| image via watermeloncrush.com |
I'm constantly looking for things that can benefit me inside and out. I truly do believe that natural remedies are the best, and try to avoid taking actual medication as often as I can. While exploring the town square today I stopped in to this health store and learned about the many benefits of elderflower.
While it's traditionally used as a detox, its also great for respiratory problems. Peasants used this flower to build up their respiratory system during harsh winters. They would then use this flower again in the Spring to combat allergies! Since I suffer from both of these "aliments" I was immediately intrigued!
While it's traditionally used as a detox, its also great for respiratory problems. Peasants used this flower to build up their respiratory system during harsh winters. They would then use this flower again in the Spring to combat allergies! Since I suffer from both of these "aliments" I was immediately intrigued!
I decided to get some natural elderflower tea, and it was really amazing! I brewed a pot and squeezed some lemon in it. I don't like adding any type of sweetener to my tea, except for organic honey, because I feel as though it takes away from the natural properties and benefits that the tea gives you. Elderflower is packed with all kinds of antioxidants that helps to prevent free radical damage.
Granted, I don't have that much free radical damage since I've been a pecastarian/vegetarian for ten odd years, but many foods that are derived from animal fats release these free radicals into the body. Free radicals are dangerous because they can damage cell reproduction and it is possible that they could even increase your risk for cancer. That's why elderflower is so beneficial. The powerful antioxidants in the herb fight against these free radicals and neutralize the toxins before significant damage occurs to your cells.
I love the tea because it just relaxes my entire body. It could just be a a placebo effect, but I really do feel as though it helps my asthma as well. I hate using my inhaler because I know it has steroids in it and I don't want to become dependent on it. I like to think of elderflower tea as more of a restorative thing, it really has a calming effect on my mind. I typically drink it prior to me meditating.
Granted, I don't have that much free radical damage since I've been a pecastarian/vegetarian for ten odd years, but many foods that are derived from animal fats release these free radicals into the body. Free radicals are dangerous because they can damage cell reproduction and it is possible that they could even increase your risk for cancer. That's why elderflower is so beneficial. The powerful antioxidants in the herb fight against these free radicals and neutralize the toxins before significant damage occurs to your cells.
I love the tea because it just relaxes my entire body. It could just be a a placebo effect, but I really do feel as though it helps my asthma as well. I hate using my inhaler because I know it has steroids in it and I don't want to become dependent on it. I like to think of elderflower tea as more of a restorative thing, it really has a calming effect on my mind. I typically drink it prior to me meditating.
You can brew elderflower for yourself too. It's extremely easy, choose the amount you'd like to brew and let it seep for about 10 to 20 minutes. Make sure that the tea you're using is only comprised of the dried flowers. The bark, leaves and seeds of elderflower contain a toxic chemical that is related to cyanide! Try to limit yourself to one cup a day, because anything over that could lead to unexpected trips to the bathroom due to elderflowers diuretic properties.
I've just finished brewing my own cup of elderflower tea, and now I'm off to relax and refresh. Aaahhh.
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