What is Elderberry Introducing the effects of syrup, how to drink it, and how to grow it from seedlings?

Elderberries are the fruits of elderflowers that can be harvested in the fall. Elderberry syrup is said to be effective in preventing colds and has long been popular in Europe. In this article, we will introduce the nutrition of Elder Berry and its effects. Let’s also see how to grow seedlings.

  • Elderberry nutrition and efficacy

Elderberry has a long history and is said to have already been used in folk remedies in BC. Since that time, it has been considered to be good for beauty and health. So what kind of nutrition does it contain? Let’s look at the main nutrition and its effects.

  • Anthocyanin

Anthocyanin is a pigment contained in elderberries and blueberries, and is a nutrient that is said to be good for eyestrain. It has an antioxidant effect, and its effect is said to be higher than that of vitamin C. Since it is expected to have the effect of suppressing the rise in blood pressure, it can be said that it is a nutrient that you want to actively take in as well as daily prevention.

  • Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a nutrient that is necessary not only to prevent the body from oxidizing, but also to prevent people from getting sick, such as reusing vitamin E. It is said that lack of vitamin C accelerates skin aging and makes it easier to catch colds. It is expected to have a better effect when taken with dietary fiber.

  • Rutin

Rutin has the effect of helping blood vessels work and is said to be good for hypertension. Since rutin has an antioxidant effect, it can be expected to be effective for beauty and prevention of lifestyle-related diseases. It is said that it should be taken with vitamin C, and elderberry is a reasonable fruit.

  • How to drink elderberry syrup

Elder berries are sour and cannot be eaten raw. It is said that it is common to eat it as syrup or jam. Syrups and jams can be stored for a long time and can be safely given to children. Let’s see how to make and drink.

  • Syrup material
  • Elderberry
  • Sugar (or honey)
  • How to make

Put the elder berries in a pan, add enough water to cover and simmer.

After boiling, simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, then cool until the heat is removed.

When it has cooled sufficiently, strain it with a cloth or colander. At this time, squeeze the elder berries together

Add sugar or honey to the squeezed juice and heat in a pan

  • How to drink syrup

Syrup using elder berries can be enjoyed by splitting it with water or hot water, as well as carbonated water or sake. It is also dried and drunk as herbal tea. The syrup has a fairly rich taste, so even a small amount is sufficient.

  • How to grow elderberries from seedlings

Elder berries are said to be difficult to cultivate in a Japanese environment, but why not try cultivating them? You can enjoy the lush leaves and flowers in spring, and the fruit harvest is waiting for you in late autumn. Homemade elder berries can be used to make syrup. Let’s see how to grow elderberries.

  • Cultivation environment

Elderberries are not good at hot and humid environments. Cultivate in the coolest environment possible. A well-ventilated, bright shade is recommended. I’m not good at drying, but I’m not good at moist soil, so it’s a good idea to consider the good drainage.

  • Planting

Seedlings are convenient for growing elderberries. Plant it around April or September. After adjusting the acidity of the soil to make it alkaline, mix Akadama soil and humus soil in a ratio of 7: 3. At the time of planting, apply a slow-release fertilizer as a base fertilizer.

  • Watering

Elder berries are not good at drying. Be especially careful with potted plants as they are prone to drainage. When the surface of the soil becomes dry, don’t forget to water it. On the other hand, I am not good at keeping the soil moist. Observe closely and water according to the situation.

  • Harvest

The best time to harvest elderberries is after September. Harvest black fruits in black and red fruits in red. Those that are blue or light in color are in an immature state. This immature thing is said to be toxic, so be careful not to eat it.

  • Pruning

Pruning is an essential part of caring for elderberries. Be sure to prun for better ventilation. Cut overgrown branches and thin branches. It’s a good idea to use the time when the harvest is over.

  • How to increase elderberries

There are two ways to increase elderberries: sowing and cuttings. However, it is said that it is difficult to obtain seeds, so it is recommended to increase the number with cuttings. Cut out about 15 cm of thick and energetic branches and insert them in the same soil as when planting. Be careful not to run out of water, manage it in the shade, and wait for the roots to come out.

  • Summary

In Europe, elder berries are effectively used not only for their fruits but also for their flowers and leaves. It is a plant that is unfamiliar, but let’s take this opportunity to incorporate it into our lives. It is often thought that cultivation is difficult because it is not good at climate, but it has strong characteristics against diseases and pests. Please try to cultivate it.

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