Elder's Possible Health Benefits

Online Athens has an article about elder and the possible uses for the plant in medicine. The article covers the history of the plant, used traditionally as a tonic by a variety of peoples, and covers recent research showing potential immunological benefits of the plant. Among the possible conditions the plant is supposed to help fight are cold, influenza, Herpes, and sinusitis. Studies show the plant seems to work as an antiviral immunostimulant. It may also help to treat difficult to treat infections of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.This serves as an example of traditional or alternative medicine bearing some fruit, but it should be noted that the immunological benefits being studied regarding elder are not anecdotal evidence as presented for so many alternative medicines. This new information about elder comes from serious studies of the effects of the plant on the human body. We now have scientific evidence to support some claims made about this plant as a treatment. If you have questions about treatments for asthma, sinusitis, or allergies, contact our office to set up an appointment.