These herbs are known to support and enhance immune and respiratory system functioning. Elderberry Defense contains an extract of the purple-black berries that grow on the tall elder shrub. These berries have long been used to fight the common cold. During the winter, the people of England historically took a teaspoon a day of a rich syrup made from the elderberry to prevent winter diseases. Elderberries are high in vitamins A and C, and studies show that both these vitamins strengthen the immune system.
Elderberries are also high in iron.
Fighter cells use iron to produce enzymes and oxidants which digest cold-causing bacteria. Elderberry stimulates the body to eliminate toxins. In this way, elderberries prevent weakening of the immune and respiratory systems because they don't allow conditions of stagnation in which bacteria often thrive. Elderberries increase perspiration, allowing toxins to be expelled through the skin. These berries also act as a mild laxative and diuretic, clearing any stagnant conditions of the colon or kidneys.