Kalina (Latin name Viburnum) is a tree of the Adox family, which grows mainly in the Northern Hemisphere. In nature, there are about 160 species of viburnum, the fruits of some of them are eaten, used to prepare medicinal decoctions. Flowers, berries and viburnum bark have useful properties.
Chemical composition and healing properties
Traditional healers claim that there is no such disease that viburnum could not cure. The benefits of viburnum are undeniable and have been tested for centuries, so it is interesting to know what substances determine its healing properties? The fruits and bark of viburnum contain: vitamins A, C, E, K, tannins, phytoncides, iron, iodine, copper, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, pectins, fatty and essential oils, sugar, citric, acetic, valeric acids.
This unique set gives the plant astringent, hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, analgesic, bactericidal properties.
Viburnum berries act as a choleretic, diuretic, antipyretic, diaphoretic, enveloping, expectorant, laxative, tonic, sedative.
Decoctions and infusions of viburnum can be used to treat inflammation of the digestive tract, hemorrhoids, epilepsy, hypertension, uterine bleeding, colds, hysteria, neurosis, nervous exhaustion.
A decoction of viburnum is used in traditional medicine in the treatment of gastritis with low acidity, edema caused by heart and kidney failure, colitis, skin inflammation, and painful periods.
A decoction of viburnum berries tones the uterus and prevents miscarriage or premature birth. At the same time, doctors warn that viburnum fruits contain substances similar to female sex hormones, and if they are overabundant in a woman’s blood, pathologies may occur in a child. Therefore, viburnum during pregnancy and lactation should be consumed only under medical supervision.
A decoction of viburnum helps with diarrhea, pain in the gastrointestinal tract, colds and coughs, shortness of breath, eczema, diathesis, cancer, tuberculosis.
Viburnum berries, harvested after the onset of frost, become more juicy and tasty, their bitterness is significantly reduced. Viburnum decoction or infusion of frozen berries act as a laxative and antiemetic.
For the treatment of the heart and some types of cancer, traditional medicine recommends eating fresh berries, along with a bone.
Viburnum juice effectively treats cough, cystitis, cholecystitis, allergies, boils, ulcers, hemorrhoids, colitis. Normalizes the work of the heart, eliminates allergies and itchy skin, improves blood composition.
To get viburnum juice, the berries are squeezed on a juicer, or blanched, and then passed through a sieve. After heat treatment, the bitterness of the berries also decreases.
A decoction of the bark of viburnum is useful for coughing for children, in addition, it has the ability to restore the vocal cords after a cold.
Collection of raw materials
Viburnum bark for medicinal purposes is harvested in early spring, when sap flow is just beginning. It is cut from the trunk in thin strips so as not to greatly harm the tree, and then cut into pieces about 10 cm long.
The bark is dried in a room with drafts or with good ventilation, as well as in a special dryer, turning the raw materials from time to time. Well-dried bark should break well and have a gray-brown color. You can store it in a dry place for 3-4 years.
Harvesting of flowers occurs in May-June - during flowering. The inflorescences are cut off completely and dried in the same way as the bark. Store raw materials in paper or plastic bags for 2 years.
Viburnum berries are harvested when fully ripe - in September or October. they can be dried in the air and then dried in the sun or in the oven, but another method can also be used - the seedlings are cut together with branches about 20-30 cm long, tied into bundles and hung in the attic or in a cold room. Thus, the berries retain their beneficial properties for a long time and do not deteriorate.
Kalina for kids
Many parents are wondering: is it possible to give decoctions of viburnum to children, and if so, at what age? According to experts, viburnum is a hypoallergenic product, and is recommended for children from 6 months. Starting from the age of one year, children can cook compotes and jelly from viburnum berries.
Newborn children are not drunk with viburnum decoctions, but with natural feeding, a nursing mother can drink viburnum decoctions herself, in this case, all the beneficial substances, together with breast milk, will enter the child's body, moreover, in an easily digestible form. All this suggests that when breastfeeding, the child receives much more useful and nutritious substances than with artificial feeding.
A child over 1 year old can drink decoctions and fruit drinks from viburnum, they eliminate allergies, relieve skin itching, strengthen immunity, and generally have a beneficial effect. Thus, the benefits of viburnum for children are invaluable.
Healer Recipes
How to cook viburnum so that all its medicinal properties are preserved? Traditional medicine has created and preserved a great many recipes for decoctions and infusions for the preparation of medicinal potions from viburnum, you can make them at home without much effort. We offer you several recipes.
Recipe 1.
A decoction of fresh viburnum berries. 2 tbsp viburnum berries should be mashed in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml of boiling water, heat in a water bath for 15 minutes, remove from heat and cool. Then the broth is filtered, another 200 ml of warm boiled water is added. You need to drink a decoction of 60-70 ml, 4 times a day in a warm form. The decoction will be useful for colds, hypoacid gastritis, hypertension.
Recipe 2.
For the treatment of chronic cough, you need to make a mixture of viburnum with honey. To prepare it, you need to take a glass of berries, scald with boiling water, grind through a sieve, add the same amount of honey to the gruel. There is a medicine you need for 1 tbsp. in the morning on an empty stomach, and in the evening before going to bed, drinking warm water. The mixture should be stored in a cool place, but not in the refrigerator, so that the healing properties of honey are preserved.
Recipe 3.
From a cough for children, you can prepare a decoction of viburnum flowers. 5 tbsp dried or fresh flowers, pour 1 liter of boiling water, leave for 1 hour, give children 100-150 ml of drink before meals in a warm form. For children up to a year, 30-60 ml is enough.
Recipe 4.
A decoction of the bark of viburnum to treat coughs and restore the vocal cords after a cold. 1 tbsp crushed viburnum bark should be poured with 250 ml of boiling water and boiled over low heat for 10-15 minutes, then cool a little, strain and drink in a sip during coughing fits.
Recipe 5.
Infusion of viburnum berries. 2 tbsp viburnum berries need to be crushed with a crush, pour 400 ml of boiling water in a thermos. Drink 100 ml 4 times a day with honey or sugar during heavy periods.
Recipe 6.
Infusion of viburnum flowers from cystitis. 1 tbsp flowers pour 200 ml of boiled water, let it brew, strain. Divide into 4 parts, drink warm during the day.
Recipe 7.
A decoction of viburnum with cholecystitis. Pour 1 cup of viburnum berries with 1 liter of boiling water, cook for 10 minutes, remove from heat, cool. Drink 100-150 ml warm with the addition of honey or sugar to taste 3-4 times a day.
Recipe 8.
A decoction of viburnum flowers. 1 tbsp raw materials pour 200 ml of hot water, heat in a water bath for 15 minutes, cool and strain. Divide into three parts, drink warm 20 minutes before meals with bronchitis, pneumonia, diathesis.
Recipe 9.
Diuretic decoction of viburnum. 10 viburnum berries need to pour 200 ml of boiled water, hold in a water bath for 15 minutes, cool, strain, add a little warm boiled water. Divide into three parts, drink in three doses during the day in a warm form.
Recipe 10.
A decoction of viburnum for external use. For baths, an infusion or decoction of viburnum, like any other medicinal plant, should be more saturated than for the treatment of internal organs. Pour 2 cups of viburnum berries with 4-5 liters of boiling water, boil for 5-10 minutes, leave to brew and cool. We filter and use for bathing a child with diathesis. The same decoction can be used to rinse your mouth with gum disease.
Recipe 11.
Alcohol tincture of viburnum, as a remedy for colds. To prepare it, you need to take 250 ml of alcohol, 500 grams of viburnum, 2 glasses of water. The berries are cleaned, washed, allowed to drain, poured into a glass jar. Pour in alcohol so that the berries are completely in alcohol. The jar is tightly closed, put in a dark place for 24 hours. If the alcohol was originally undiluted, you can add a little water to the drink, bringing its strength to the desired one. Now the tincture should stand for another 2-3 weeks. Then it is filtered, poured into another container, stored in the refrigerator.
Precautionary measures
Kalina is rich in useful substances, however, some of them are not useful for everyone, and viburnum, like any other plant, has its own contraindications. Therefore, treatment with viburnum should be started under medical supervision, or with small doses. It is necessary to pay attention to how the body will react to a new medicine, what sensations will appear when taking it.
Kalina is not poisonous, but one should not forget about the individual intolerance of some substances contained in it. Decoctions and infusions of viburnum have contraindications for hypotension, gastritis with high acidity, during pregnancy, increased blood clotting and thrombophlebitis, leukemia, gout, chronic kidney disease.
Traditional medicine knows many cases of successful treatment with decoctions, ointments and infusions prepared from natural ingredients. When the disease haunts, any remedy is good, so leaves and bark of trees, flowers, berries, mushrooms are used. For thousands of years, knowledge in the field of traditional medicine was brought to perfection: people learned to handle the means that nature gave them, and discovered the harmful and beneficial properties of the plants available to them. With the development of pharmacology, the tradition of being treated with natural methods was gradually pushed aside by chemical preparations made from synthetic components.
Nevertheless, traditional medicine has remained popular and is widely used by those people who are afraid of harming themselves by resorting to clinical medicine. Some folk remedies are good only for the treatment of infectious diseases, others are used for cosmetic purposes. In this article, we will consider a folk remedy that is effective for treating diseases of various kinds, used in cooking and cosmetology. So, red viburnum: how this berry is useful, how to cook it properly and what to use it with to improve your health.
The chemical composition of red berries
These bitter berries are very rich in nutrients. For every 100 g of berries, there are from 6 to 8 g of sugars, 3-4 g of tannins, which cause a characteristic astringent taste, essential oils and acids of organic origin. Natural tannin polyphenols, the same as in tea and wine, cause a special astringency and stop the oxidation processes in body tissues. 
Resinous esters give the berries a sweetish frosty smell, and there is two-thirds more ascorbic acid in viburnum than in citrus fruits. It should be noted the high content of , and E, as well as iron, and . If you use viburnum along with seeds, then fatty oils will enter your body - up to 20 g for every 100 g.
Important! Substances of plant origin, similar to the female sex hormone estrogen, are found in viburnum in large quantities. In the treatment of purely female diseases, they are useful, but they can harm pregnant and lactating women by disrupting the hormonal background.
Benefits for the human body
Kalina is one of those plants that can be used as a whole, from bark to berries, despite the fact that its benefits to the body are invaluable, and it can bring harm to health only with unreasonable use. Each part of it is used in its own way and is rich in its own special substances.
berries
Most of all, this plant is known for the healing properties of its berries - most often they are used as a remedy for colds and an immunostimulating agent. The pectins contained in them, ascorbic acid, tannins cope with infectious diseases, such as chronic and acute tonsillitis, bronchitis. 
They inhibit the pathogenic microflora of the respiratory tract, have an analgesic effect and tone up the blood vessels in the focus of infection, accelerating recovery. Their antipyretic effect is combined with the ability to quickly return the lost voice and eliminate hoarseness due to increased friability of the tonsils.
The fruits of this plant are recommended for hypertensive patients, as they reduce blood pressure. Potassium, the most important element for the health of the cardiovascular system, as well as iron normalize the work of the heart muscle. These berries stimulate the appearance of blood cells - erythrocytes, leukocytes, white blood cells - and this triggers blood renewal. Viburnum is used to open blood vessels and remove cholesterol plaques from their walls, lowers the risk of developing atherosclerosis or anemia, increases blood pressure, and relieves pain in the heart.
For people who have problems with the digestive tract, they help improve digestion, stimulate the production of their own enzymes and strengthen the microflora. The tannins of these berries cure gastritis, colitis, relieve pain in the stomach and intestines, accelerate the healing of ulcers and postoperative scars. 
A handful of berries eaten after a heavy meal works better than enzymatic preparations, as it stimulates digestion and prevents constipation. A pronounced diuretic effect and characteristic stimulation of the gallbladder improve the functioning of the urinary system and cleanse the slagged body.
The bones contained inside these berries have an invaluable tonic effect. They reduce spasmodic headaches and migraines, increase efficiency, reduce fatigue and bad mood. Healing viburnum decoction of berries with seeds helps people recover from operations and simply improve the quality of sleep. Scientific research on this topic has not been conducted, but traditional medicine claims that the regular use of these berries will be a sure way to prevent cancer.
Did you know? In ancient Russia, viburnum has always been a symbol of girlish beauty and purity. Wedding tables and celebration halls were decorated with it, viburnum was given to young people and new shoots were planted at the huts built for new families.
This is a real "female" plant. In addition to the amazing ability to relieve allergic rashes, heal abscesses, furunculosis, cleanse the skin and improve its color, viburnum relieves the female condition during menstruation, improves menopause, relieves bleeding from the uterine mucosa and pain in the reproductive system. Anxiety, insomnia and other disorders of the nervous system are removed by tincture on the berries of this plant. It improves mood, relieves depression, eases seizures in epileptics and reduces muscle cramps. Viburnum is harvested after the onset of the first frost - at this time the fruits are at the peak of ripening.
Tsvetkov
They are not used as widely as berries, and their properties are much simpler, but these inflorescences can help out in a difficult situation. They restore the voice lost due to pharyngitis and laryngitis in just a day, relieve fever during viral infections. Allergic reactions lose their intensity if, during periods of exacerbations, drink a decoction or tincture on these inflorescences. 
They remove mucus and phlegm from the bronchi and upper sinuses of the respiratory tract - it is enough to regularly drink tea or a decoction of viburnum flowers and breathe their healing steam in the form of inhalations.
bark
Harvest viburnum bark during the beginning of sap flow - that is, in the spring. The people appreciate its hemostatic properties, which this plant owes again to tannins and tannins. Decoctions of the bark have long been used by women to recover from childbirth, stop uterine bleeding, and reduce menstrual flow. It effectively helps those who have non-healing wounds or postoperative sutures.
Active acids, such as formic, butyric, treat periodontal disease and other gum diseases and have an antispasmodic effect - they relax smooth muscles, reduce spasms. 
Folk recipes
Basically, traditional medicine is based on decoction and infusion methods of preparing medicines. This is true both for berries and inflorescences, and for viburnum bark, because when insisting on water or alcohol, almost all the active components of fruits and other parts of the plant pass into liquid.
Important! People with low blood pressure should eat these berries very carefully. Their pronounced ability to lower pressure can bring already small values to critical ones.
To strengthen immunity
The most famous prophylactic recipe with viburnum is based on its mixture with honey. It is necessary to grind the berries previously washed and scalded with boiling water in a blender or on a sieve, to separate the juice and pulp from the cake. Cake can be saved for making jelly and compotes. The resulting pulp must be measured with a glass and mixed with honey in a ratio of 1: 1. This tasty and healthy mixture is best stored in the refrigerator or on a cold balcony. Every day you need to eat 2-3 teaspoons of this remedy before meals. 
On the basis of viburnum berries, another immunomodulatory agent is being prepared. You need to take 100 g of berries, 1 whole lemon, 200 g of walnut kernels, 200 g of peeled aloe leaves, 200 g of butter and buckwheat honey. Kalina, lemon, walnuts and aloe need to be crushed in a blender to a homogeneous consistency, add oil pounded with honey and mix well. This remedy is stored in the same way in the cold and is taken 1 tablespoon after breakfast and dinner.
With excessive irritability
Any diseases of the nervous system of Kalina can be alleviated. With insomnia, anxiety, irritability, viburnum juice is especially effective. To obtain it, fresh berries are taken, rubbed together with the seeds manually or in a blender until smooth, the resulting mass is filtered through gauze or a sieve, and the resulting juice is drunk diluted with water, maintaining the ratio of 2 parts of juice to 1 part of water.
Quick relaxation and normalization of mood will cause a decoction of viburnum bark. You will need lemon balm and dried bark in equal proportions (3 teaspoons each). Mix them, put them in a steam bath for 1 hour, first pouring half a liter of boiling water, and then boil over low heat so that half of the liquid evaporates. Store the decoction in a cold place, use as anxiety conditions appear. 
If chronic fatigue bothers you and you are on the verge of a nervous breakdown, the next decoction will be your salvation. Take 50 g of crushed bark of this bush and dry chamomile inflorescences. Stir them, separate about half of the mixture and pour boiling water over it (about 250 ml). Keep the mixture on low heat until it boils, then cool to room temperature and, covered, place on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. Drink this decoction every day before bed until you feel noticeably better.
Did you know? This typically Slavic plant has a very wide distribution area. Bright viburnum bushes are found in remote areas of the highest mountain system on Earth - the Andes, on the islands of the Caribbean Sea and even in tropical Madagascar.
For colds and coughs
Respiratory viral infections succumb to decoctions of the bark and inflorescences. Boil 20 g of dried bark in half a liter of water until reduced by half, remove the saucepan from the stove. Stir a spoonful of honey in a cooling broth, then pour in 5 ml of sea buckthorn seed oil. Honey will play the role of an emulsifier. Every day, prepare a new portion and drink it as soon as it cools down. It is better to do this on an empty stomach. 
Often both bark and berries are used. Squeeze out the juice from the latter, strain it through cheesecloth so that you get half a glass, or 150 ml, add dry inflorescences of thyme, chamomile, lemon balm, mint (1 teaspoon each) and the same amount of lime honey. Add half a cup of boiling water, bring the mixture to a boil over low heat and give the person who has a cold a drink half an hour before eating.
To remove sputum from the bronchi, the following recipe will come in handy. Take 1 cup of buckwheat honey, put it in a ceramic bowl and heat it until bubbles appear, stirring constantly with a wooden spatula. Puree 3 handfuls of berries, pour the resulting puree with warmed honey and wrap the container in blankets so that the medicine ripens in 5-7 hours. Take the resulting medicine every 2 hours, washing it down with linden tea. In the same proportions, you can simply boil viburnum in honey, without bringing it to a boil.
In order to prepare a cough remedy, use both inflorescences and viburnum fruits. Pour the same amount of dried viburnum berries and flowers on pedicels (about 40 g each) with hot water so that it covers them, cover the container with a lid and wait, as it should ripen warm in about 4 hours. Drink this medicine every 3 hours, with or without food. Strain the decoction before drinking. 
For chronic cough, a mixture of the following components is used:, viburnum berries, - all dried and in the same amount (30 g each). Mix medicinal herbs and berries, pour 1 liter of boiling water over them and cook over high heat for 15 minutes. After partial evaporation, close the saucepan and leave the broth to infuse for 3 hours. Pass the medicine through a sieve and pour into a sterilized container. Drink this decoction immediately after eating half a glass until complete recovery occurs.
For headaches
To relieve a spasmodic headache or get rid of a migraine, use viburnum berries. Turn 2 handfuls of berries into juice in a juicer or rub them manually through a fine sieve, add honey to the juice (20 g for every 100 ml) and drink 1 or 2 glasses of the healing mixture every day, depending on the strength and frequency of pain. Juice should be drunk before meals, if desired, supplemented with oatmeal steamed in boiling water to additionally cope with intestinal disorders.
Important! The acid reaction of these fruits is good for people with low concentration of gastric juice, but it is highly discouraged for those who suffer from heartburn or acetone syndrome.
With hypertension
For those who constantly suffer from pulling sensations in the myocardial region and from high blood pressure, such a recipe for infusion of viburnum fruits in hot water with honey will help. Take 2 handfuls of sorted and scalded berries, fill them with 200 ml of hot water and soak for 4 hours under a tightly closed lid. Do not prepare this drink for the future, it is only useful for the first 12 hours after brewing. Drink it 3 times a day before meals, 1 glass at a time, adding 1 teaspoon of buckwheat honey before drinking.
To lower blood pressure, young twigs from the viburnum bush will come in handy. Prepare a mixture of the following ingredients: motherwort, viburnum twigs, valerian root. Grind them well, separate 20 g of the mixture and pour them into a saucepan. Add 200 ml hot water. Bring to a boil quickly, cool at room temperature and drink 4 times a day at intervals of 3 hours. 3 weeks will be enough for treatment. 
Kalinovo-beet kvass is a reliable remedy for dilating blood vessels and toning their walls. Take 300 g of peeled beets and viburnum fruits. Grate the beets on a coarse grater and boil in 2 cups of distilled water. In a separate container, boil the berries in the same way. Pour the resulting decoctions together, boil again so that the decoction is sterile, and store it in a glass container in the refrigerator. Take this remedy twice a day - in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening before going to bed.
For liver diseases
The simplest and most widely known remedy is berries grated with honey. Kalina helps cleanse the liver of toxins and accelerate the regeneration of its cells, which is to be expected from tannins. You need to take 1 cup of washed and peeled fruits, boil them in their own juice, grind together with the seeds to a homogeneous consistency and add half a glass of buckwheat honey. Take this delicious medicine in the morning before breakfast and in the evening 1 hour before dinner.
Liver regeneration will be affected by the following compound remedy. Its manufacture must begin with brewing 200 g of dried rose hips for 1 liter of water. Then add to the decoction 50 g of dried celandine inflorescences, 5 tablespoons of finely chopped sage and 100 g of viburnum berries, ground together with seeds. 
Keep the resulting mixture for 7 hours in a warm place and filter out the particles of herbs before use. Portions should be small - 2 teaspoons of medicine half an hour after each meal.
Did you know? In 1973, the great director Vasily Shukshin made a film called Red Kalina. This work was his last in the world of cinema, and its name was taken from the song that the director's wife, Lydia, sang to him when they first met.
Berry seeds can remove sand and stones from the liver, or rather from the gallbladder and its duct. Swallow them, without chewing, one at a time and repeat this action hourly throughout the day. In total, you need to eat at least 10 bones (optimally 15). 
To improve the separation of bile, you need to prepare an infusion on viburnum inflorescences, young buds from birches and mint leaves. All components should be mixed in a ratio of 1: 1: 1, finely chopped and pour 1 glass of warm water for 1 hour. It is necessary to filter the particles of the medicinal collection through a sieve, and it is recommended to drink the resulting medicine after each meal, 2 tablespoons.
For pain in the stomach
The tannins that are in viburnum treat the mucous membranes of the internal organs, so that the regeneration of this tissue is accelerated. To get the most out of this herb, you need to use fresh berries, not frozen ones, as they are especially effective in lowering the alkalinity of the intestinal environment. Brew half a glass of berries in 1 liter of water, leave to infuse for 3 hours without a lid and take the resulting infusion, 2 tablespoons each, without drinking anything 10 minutes before a meal.
Viburnum seeds from berries save from indigestion. Separate them from the pulp in the amount of 50 pieces, pour 200 ml of hot water and soak the broth in a steam bath for an hour and a half. Before drinking this medicine, filter out the seeds and the rest of the pulp. Take it before breakfast every day for a month. 
As for peptic ulcers, a cold decoction of viburnum berries will be an excellent addition to medical treatment. Measure half a glass of these fruits, pour 200 ml of warm water, mash with a fork along with the seeds and soak in a glass or ceramic container for 12 hours. Take this tincture every day 3 times and drink at least 50 ml at a time. Store it in the refrigerator, sealed.
For constipation
This plant helps even with such a delicate problem. Use only fresh, not crushed berries. Measure fifty berries every morning before breakfast and eat them on an empty stomach with the addition of a small amount of honey. The seeds that are in the pulp are another effective remedy. They need to be dried in the oven until crisp (this can take up to 40 minutes), grind in a coffee grinder or roll with a rolling pin to a powder, measure and add 250 ml of warm water to 20 g of the resulting powder. The mixture should be cooled to room temperature and drunk before breakfast with the addition of a teaspoon of buckwheat honey.
Important! This berry has a beneficial effect on the immunity of babies. It can be given to babies as part of fruit drinks and compotes, starting from 5-6th month of life.
For diarrhea
The issue of loose stools is solved by honey tincture on berries. Preparing it is simple: take 3 tablespoons of the fruits of this plant, grind them together with the seeds in a blender, put them in an enamel saucepan and pour half a glass of buckwheat or linden honey. Put the resulting mixture on a small fire and slowly warm up, stirring with a wooden spatula, until it becomes homogeneous and begins to bubble.
For heating, you can use a water bath, then replace the enameled container with a ceramic heat-resistant one and keep the mixture for at least 10 minutes. Remove from heat, cool to room temperature and store in the refrigerator under an airtight lid. You need to take this remedy half an hour before meals daily until digestion normalizes.
For skin diseases
The acidic environment that these berries cause normalizes the condition of problem skin and promotes the rapid healing of small sores, boils, abscesses and just an allergic rash. The most common remedy is viburnum juice used as compresses. They treat all problem areas.
The skin is pre-cleaned and steamed, then cotton pads or gauze cloth soaked in viburnum juice are applied and incubated for 1 hour. You need to do 2 such procedures per day, and the total course of treatment lasts 2 weeks. At the end of the period, a monthly break is taken and, if necessary, the treatment is repeated. 
If you are concerned about eczema, you will need to take berry juice inside. In concentrated form, it is good for those who do not have problems with the acidity of gastric juice. It will be enough to drink half a glass twice a day after meals. Those who suffer from gastritis or intestinal ulcers will have to prepare an infusion. Mash with a fork 2 handfuls of these berries along with the seeds and soak in 1 cup of boiling water for half an hour. The resulting infusion drink 3 times a day for half an hour before meals.
To get the most benefit from the wound healing properties of this herb, use it topically. Boil half a cup of dried berries and half a cup of chopped bark in 1 liter of water. In the finished broth, add 100 g of linden honey. Cotton swabs soaked in decoction, fasten on damaged skin and wait an hour. Repeat the procedure until the wounds are completely healed.
For sweaty feet
Viburnum bark reduces the activity of sweat glands almost instantly. To prepare a medicinal infusion, take 1 tablespoon of dried crushed bark, pour 1 cup of boiling water over it and infuse in a ceramic bowl for half an hour. When the infusion has cooled to room temperature, pour it into an enamel saucepan, place on a slow fire and bring to a boil. In order for the maximum of useful substances to pass into the water, cool the broth and boil it again. They need to wipe places with excessive sweating twice a day - in the morning and before going to bed, after cleansing the skin. 
Did you know? In 1950, in the film "Kuban Cossacks" there was a song that many consider folk for its sincerity and drama. She appeared with the light hand of the composer Isaac Dunayevsky, and is known under the name "Oh, the viburnum is blooming."
How to use for cosmetic purposes: recipes
Two substances in viburnum berries are of the greatest value for cosmetology. These are sugars and tannins. Viburnum fruit juice tightens the skin, acting like natural Botox due to the abundance of vitamin C, and cleanses them like a scrub. It is most convenient to introduce viburnum into the composition of masks and tonics. Always test the prepared mask on a small area of the skin to make sure that you are not allergic to the components of the berries. The bones and the upper dense skin of the berries are not of particular use for cosmetology - they must be removed after rubbing and chopping the fruit. 
Apply masks and tonics to clean, steamed skin. The pores on it will open, and the effectiveness of the procedure will increase. Wash your face after the procedure with weak decoctions of medicinal chamomile, lemon balm, calendula - they additionally care for the skin and fix the effect of the procedure, unlike chlorinated tap water.
For dry skin
The moisturizing effect of viburnum juice is used in anti-aging procedures. To take care of dry skin with early wrinkles, prepare this mask. Take 3 quail egg yolks, 2 handfuls of berries, 1 teaspoon each of honey and olive oil. Pass all ingredients through a sieve and mix well. Apply the mask with a cosmetic spatula and keep it for about 15 minutes.
Reduce the depth of wrinkles, remove dryness and peeling frozen cubes of berry juice. Beat half a kilogram of berries in a blender, strain them through gauze or a sieve, fill in ice molds and put in the freezer until completely solidified. Wipe the skin of the face with them along the massage lines in the morning, when the skin is relaxed and the pores on it are open. 
A real salvation for tired skin with signs of wilting will be a mask of berry puree using quail eggs. Prepare a smooth puree from 2 handfuls of berries, add the yolks of 2 quail eggs and 50 g of almond oil. Apply the resulting mask on the problem skin of the face and soak for 10 minutes. Rinse off the remnants of the mask with a weak chamomile decoction.
Important! If you have dry skin, be sure to moisturize it after washing off the viburnum masks with a non-greasy cream.- It will prevent dryness and the appearance of a tight feeling on the skin.
For oily skin
The main function of viburnum in cosmetology is to reduce the secretion of sebum by the sebaceous glands. Therefore, this berry is best for problematic oily skin. Its juice brightens skin tone, removes age-related pigmentation, and eliminates oily sheen.
To prepare a mask for oily skin, take an egg white and half a glass of berries, grind them until smooth and apply to the skin with massaging movements. Wait for the ingredients to be absorbed - this will take up to 15 minutes. There may be a feeling of strong tightness due to the drying of the protein. Do not wash off the protein ahead of time - this is how the effect of the mask manifests itself. This recipe narrows enlarged pores and normalizes the sebaceous glands. 
A mask made on the basis of kefir slightly dries the skin, while providing it with nutrition, and improves the color of the skin. To prepare it, make homemade kefir or buy a store-bought one with a shelf life of no more than 3 days. Mix equal proportions of kefir and viburnum berry puree, apply the mask on the skin and lightly massage your face for better absorption. Wash your face with slightly acidified lemon water.
To prevent oily breakouts and excessive sebum secretion, prepare a mask with eucalyptus in the recipe. Buy dried eucalyptus leaves at the pharmacy, brew 2-3 pinches in 1 cup of boiling water. Let them stretch for 2 hours, then add half a cup of berry puree. Gradually add rye flour to the cooled infusion until the consistency of the mask becomes creamy. Apply it in a thick layer on the skin of the face and soak for 20 minutes.
The following recipe is suitable for brightening the complexion, drying and closing enlarged pores. Mix egg white with lemon and viburnum juices in equal proportions. Gradually, layer by layer, apply this mass on the face using a cosmetic brush. For washing, prepare a weak decoction of viburnum inflorescences.
For acne and pimples
Problematic skin needs the most delicate care. To ensure it, you need to properly cleanse the skin and moisturize it as needed, especially combination skin. To avoid clogging of pores with sebaceous plugs, at the same time dry the skin and nourish it, the following recipe will do. 
Take 3 tablespoons of viburnum inflorescences, brew them in half a liter of water, cool to room temperature and pour the resulting broth into ice molds. Frozen cubes wipe your face in the morning after washing with warm water. A decoction of inflorescences will cleanse the skin, remove inflammation and narrow pores, and shock temperature will improve blood circulation and smooth out fine wrinkles.
Painful unaesthetic boils and pimples will go away in 2-3 months of intensive use of the next mask. Take 3 quail egg whites and grind them with 50 g of buckwheat honey. Stir in half a glass of berry puree, grated with seeds. Add 20 g of almond oil (it dries well) and soak the mixture for half an hour. Apply the mask to the previously cleansed skin of the face using your fingers or a cosmetic spatula, keep it for 20 minutes and rinse with milk diluted with water.
Did you know? This plant has been known to science for a long time, but it was only included in the official classification in 1753. Then the viburnum was considered a plant from the genus of honeysuckle and even had its own family of viburnum, but then it was lowered in rank and ranked among the vast family of hairy flowers.
To steam the skin of the face before removing blackheads or blackheads, use a decoction of the bark and inflorescences. Take 2 tablespoons of dry bark and inflorescences, brew them in 500 ml of water and, covering your head with a towel, hold your face over the rising steam for 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn delicate skin. Treat your hands with soapy water or alcohol, remove abscesses and black spots that bother you, and then wipe your skin with a cotton pad dipped in viburnum juice - it will close the pores and dry out the inflammation. When is the best time to collect viburnum
This bush begins to bloom in May-June, so the color must be harvested in early summer. Cut large beautiful inflorescences with garden shears or pruners under the very leg, then tie them in bunches and hang them on a balcony or loggia - where it is dry, warm and there are no insects. Under such conditions, the inflorescences will dry out in 1.5–2 weeks, after which they can be packed in burlap or parchment and set aside for 2–3 months for final ripening.
The fruits on this bush ripen all summer and part of autumn. In October, they acquire a rich red color, but they should be collected only after the first frost, when the bitterness from the berries goes away, and the amount of useful substances in them reaches a maximum. Pick a berry without roots only if you plan to process it right away - dry, freeze, puree. If you are going to keep the viburnum fresh for a while, then cut it only with the stalks and buy the same one if possible. In a ripe berry there are no green or yellow streaks, it all acquires a purple hue. 
The bark from the bush can be cut only in the spring with the onset of the first thaws. Since the movement of juices has already begun at this time, cut it with a very sharp knife so as not to inadvertently damage the inside of the branches. Cut off only the top layer and do it in small pieces if you still don’t know how to properly handle the bark. Dry the collected raw materials in the oven or in a warm, dry place (a kitchen window sill is suitable for this purpose). Drying can take up to 3 weeks.
How to store at home
Fresh berries are the most difficult to store, as over time they blacken and dry out from the inside. To prevent this from happening, place them in a ceramic bowl, cover with parchment or cling film on top and keep on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator - they will last up to a week there. It is much easier to store frozen puree. To prepare it, rinse the berries under running water, scald them with boiling water, remove the stalks and, together with the seeds, beat with a blender in a puree. Spread the resulting mass in small glass containers and place in the freezer. Do not fill containers to the top, such puree expands during storage.
Important! Keep cosmetic masks using this berry on the skin for no longer than 20 minutes so that the acids in its composition do not provoke irritation and peeling.
To freeze whole berries, you have to tinker a little. Process them in exactly the same way as for pureeing, but do not crush, but spread a small amount on a board and put in the freezer. Stir them every 2 hours and move them so that they do not stick together into a single lump. When the fruits are ossified, pour them into a ceramic or glass container and freeze the next batch in the same way. As for dried berries, washed and peeled, they are kept for 4–5 hours in a hot (up to 120 ° C) oven or laid out on parchment in a sunny, dry place. Contraindications and possible harm
Oddly enough, even such a uniquely beneficial berry can be harmful to some people. So, the high content of tannins, which cause the characteristic bitter taste of this berry, can provoke an allergy in especially sensitive individuals, although in general it is not allergenic and can be introduced into the diet of babies starting from the 5th month of life. and iron, which are part of this berry with beneficial properties, lower blood pressure in hypertension, but Hypotension is strictly contraindicated- the use of viburnum juice according to a prescription with honey in some cases can lead to fainting.
Phytoestrogens, which are part of these berries, have a beneficial effect on the female reproductive system, but they are contraindicated for pregnant women, since due to hormonal imbalance, the risk of miscarriage and the appearance of congenital pathologies in the baby increases. With anemia, viburnum is useful, but it increases blood clotting, so it cannot be used by those who suffer from thrombosis and blockage of blood vessels. 
People with arthritis, osteoporosis and gout should eat these fruits carefully - the acids that it contains are very active and lead to deterioration of the cartilage tissue. The pronounced acidic environment that viburnum creates in the intestines can harm people with heartburn and those who have a stomach ulcer in a progressive condition.
Did you know? Kalina is an important plant in Ukrainian folk symbolism. True to its history and honoring the traditions of their ancestors, the Ukrainian people to this day use embroidered images of viburnum clusters on coats of arms, chevrons and banners of military units.
The unique composition of these berries leaves no doubt about their usefulness. They are used for diseases of internal organs and skin problems, they are prescribed by doctors in clinics and recommended by folk healers. There are many recipes containing this amazing berry, and they are designed for a variety of situations. Kalina can be eaten by the youngest children with weakened immune systems and the elderly who have problems with the cardiovascular system. Knowing how to use this amazing berry, correctly assessing the risks from its use, you can provide yourself and your loved ones with a tasty and healthy medicine that nature itself has given people.
A miraculous plant that has berries, with a characteristic, bitter-sour taste. Features of viburnum fruits are already widely known both in medicine and in cooking. But before proceeding with any use of the magic berry, you need to familiarize yourself with the useful and vice versa properties.
Previously, with the help of viburnum berries, they got rid of many diseases. The ancient Slavs were treated with the miraculous properties of these fruits, and according to their belief, the red berry was a pure symbol of beauty. Not a single wedding was complete without this berry, and symbolized the happiness of the newlyweds.
Useful components of viburnum
Not only fruits are considered healing. Seeds and leaves are no less useful, as they are saturated with:
- organic acid;
- vitamin "C";
- there are tannins;
The leaves are rich in pectin.
The seeds are rich in fatty oils. Flowers with mineral components. The bark and leaves are rich in tannins and resinous elements.
Since ancient times, viburnum has been used in the treatment of:
- urinary system;
- cardio - vascular;
- inflammation;
- colds;
- insomnia;
- disorder of the nervous system.
Also, useful berries help strengthen immunity, reduce temperature in case of colds. Cooked decoctions or infusions are often used to stop bleeding. In women, it is used for inflammation of the appendages.
Infusions of flowers are used in the treatment of the skin, they eliminate itching, rashes or irritations on the skin. With bronchitis, sputum is well removed from the bronchi. From the seeds of the plant, drinks are prepared that are effective for constipation.
The healing properties of miraculous viburnum are capable of:
- eliminate pain during menstruation;
- treat sore throat and throat diseases;
- Prevent and treat bleeding gums.
Viburnum bark is effective in many diseases of the kidneys, liver, sclerosis and others.
Traditional medicine uses viburnum remedies for diseases of the urinary tract and stomach ulcers. It is widely used in diseases such as gastritis, bronchitis, asthma, acne, stomatitis. 
Also, viburnum is widely used for cosmetic purposes and plays an important role there. Prepared masks from berries have a rejuvenating effect, and also allow you to clean the pores of the skin.
For dry skin, you can prepare such a mask:
- 2 teaspoons of viburnum berries;
- 1 teaspoon of honey;
- 5 drops of glycerin;
- a teaspoon of vegetable oil;
- 1.5 tablespoons of flour.
All ingredients are mixed to a homogeneous consistency, heated to a warm state and applied to the face with circular massaging movements. The masks are usually kept for about half an hour, then washed off the face with soapy water, if the procedure is done in the evening, a nourishing cream should be applied at night.
For oily skin, you should prepare:
- viburnum juice 50 g;
- egg white 1 pc.
The protein is whipped into a steep foam, viburnum juice is added, the mask is applied to the face in a circular motion. Keep at least half an hour, and then wash off. After the procedure, a face cream is applied. You should know that when applying masks, the area around the eyes should remain free.
Viburnum syrup, which has medicinal effects, is very useful for colds or when a temperature appears. The only drawback here is its bitter, unpleasant taste. To prepare a miracle syrup, take berry juice, add sugar, boil for 5 minutes.
Berries against pressure
As has long been known, the fruits of viburnum, as well as its bark, have a positive effect on normalizing blood pressure, because they contain some essential oil content, which has a diuretic effect. That is, when eating berries, excess fluid is quickly excreted, which causes the normalization of pressure. It is believed that this is the best way to reduce pressure.
To prevent and normalize pressure, you can prepare the following recipe. Chop the berries and mix with honey. The ratio of fruits and honey should be the same. Then insist for at least a couple of hours and take 3 times a day for a tablespoon, preferably after meals. If the pressure remains elevated and is accompanied by a headache, it is better to consult a doctor.
Stocks of viburnum for the winter
As you know, the final ripening of berries in viburnum occurs already in the autumn, although it does not require much time for this. It is better to make stocks from dried berries. Dried viburnum contains many useful properties, such as vitamins or minerals, which are simply necessary for many diseases. Or you can freeze the berries in plastic bags.
Bones of viburnum berries
Bones of a miraculous plant have a positive effect. They are able to normalize the digestive system of the gastrointestinal tract. Specially prepared decoctions are used, which are suitable not only for adults, but also for children. The stones can be roasted and used instead of regular coffee because they have tonic properties.
Bones of berries are capable of:
- cleanse the body of toxins;
- strengthen muscles;
- get rid of headaches;
- eliminate nasal congestion;
- remove swelling.
Kalina red useful properties and contraindications should be known to everyone who directly takes or makes decoctions, syrups, infusions, or simply uses them for treatment. As you know, any remedy has contraindications, no matter if it is folk or pharmacy. You should not take viburnum in the treatment of any disease for pregnant or lactating mothers, as this may adversely affect the hormonal background.
Also, before any treatment, it is better to consult a doctor for advice. After all, there are often such diseases, the nature of which its owner does not suspect, and in the future, this can adversely affect the treatment of the body. Those who have drops in blood pressure, or have diseases related to the kidneys, heart or blood, should not self-medicate without recommendations, since there will be no benefit from this, but most likely, on the contrary, a person will only harm and aggravate the situation.
Almost every person, especially in old age, is unwell due to blood pressure. And quite often it is viburnum berries that save from such an unpleasant ailment. Having learned about pressure, many immediately begin to use berries, adding sugar to them, thereby immediately alleviating their condition. Kalina red useful properties and contraindications for pressure should be known to everyone who uses the berry in their treatment.
The berries of the miraculous shrub have soothing and healing properties. They are considered indispensable for nervosa, treatment of pressure, as well as for the removal of spasms of blood vessels. An integrated approach can fix the treatment of hypertension.
To do this, use dried mashed viburnum berries, filled with boiling water, that is, you get an ordinary infusion, which is taken in half a glass 3 times a day, you can use it before meals. You can also prepare such a recipe, take 5 cups of fresh berries, pour boiling water to cover the berry. Withstand the night, then filter the infusion, grind the berries, add honey, and then take 2 tablespoons 3 times a day for a month.
People who have increased blood clotting should know that it is strictly forbidden to use berries, infusions and decoctions. It is best to check or consult with experts. Because viburnum will help well only for those who have no contraindications for use. Moreover, viburnum has proven itself with its healing properties only on the positive side.
With all the above information, we can safely say that viburnum is a godsend in medicine, and its healing properties help people get rid of many diseases.
No less valuable berry is cranberry, and
Kalina red (common) has always been considered one of the most powerful folk amulets in Russia. Since ancient times, its juicy bunches have personified good health, prosperity, helped drive away evil spirits and kept the family hearth. The name of this berry is most often found in Russian folklore - songs, fairy tales, proverbs.
Kalina is harvested for the winter, they cook delicious and healthy jam from it, prepare vitamin fruit drinks, and use it as a filling for pies. The plant occupies an equally important place in folk medicine. Kalina is the strongest biostimulant that helps a person to maintain his youth and excellent health for many years.
Kalina red: description, composition and photo
Unpretentious, but very beautiful, red viburnum grows throughout the Russian Federation - from the Crimea to Siberia. The plant is not demanding on conditions and calmly endures climate changes, without suffering from droughts or winter frosts. It grows in the form of a lush shrub, up to 2 m high or a low tree - up to 4 m. The leaves of viburnum are dark green, wide, coarsely serrated, with 3-5 lobes.
During the flowering period, which falls at the end of spring - the beginning of summer, the plant is covered with a large white color, attracting bees with its aroma, and being a honey plant. In the cold season, viburnum looks no less impressive. Around the end of September, clusters with drupes of a rich bright red hue begin to appear on the branches, which remain on the tree until next spring.
Kalina can be called without exaggeration the champion in the number of useful compounds. And they are found in all parts of the plant:
Bark - rich in tannins, phytoncides, resins, organic acids, phytosterols.
seeds - almost a third consist of the most valuable fatty oils.
in the leaves - vitamins A and C, minerals, acetic, valeric, oleic and formic acids were found.
Berries - the most valuable gift of viburnum. They contain a large amount of ascorbic acid (70% more than citrus fruits), pectins, lipids, saponins, tannins, organic substances, vitamins, micro and macro elements.
Important! Kalina red refers to those rare plants whose fruits, after the onset of frost, not only do not lose, but are even able to accumulate substances useful for our body.
Useful properties and application in traditional medicine
The first mention of the therapeutic properties of viburnum can be found in the herbalists of the sixteenth century, and today it is one of the most sought-after plants in herbal medicine.
Kalina red is one of the most valuable plants in Russia. It is unique because it has not only the richest vitamin and mineral composition. The main advantage is that all parts of the plant are used for medical and cosmetic purposes.
You can make decoctions, tinctures, lotions for rubbing the skin, teas, replacing them with expensive vitamin complexes and medicines.
Kalina is a plant with a rich vitamin composition, almost unique. It is for the huge chemical composition that this berry is considered a natural healer.
100 g of viburnum contains:
- 80-135 mg of vitamin C (ascorbic acid - about 2 times more than in lemon);
- 450-1350 mg of vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid, which is responsible for lowering cholesterol);
- 2.5 mg of vitamin A (carotene is a natural immunostimulant);
- 30 mg of vitamin K (has an anti-hemorrhagic effect);
- 0.03 mg of vitamin B9 (folic acid, which lowers the level of "bad" cholesterol);
- 2 mg/g vitamin E (tocopherol is a natural antioxidant);
- 248 mg molybdenum;
- 17 mg magnesium;
- 10 mg selenium (has the property to accumulate);
- 0.8 mg copper;
- 6 mg manganese;
- 0.5 mg zinc;
- 0.3 mg iron;
- 0.06 chromium.
The composition also contains potassium, cobalt, calcium.
Our ancestors believed that there is no such disease in which red viburnum will not help. However, this plant is most effective in the following pathologies:
- SARS, influenza, tonsillitis. Kalina is especially useful in the presence of a cold, since the plant has an anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic effect, increases the protective properties of the body, and speeds up recovery.
- Pathologies of the digestive organs. It is useful to take viburnum in the form of decoctions, juices for ulcers, gastritis, inflammatory pathologies of the liver, and other organs. In addition, the plant stimulates the secretion of gastric juice, has an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Vascular and heart disease. It is recommended to take decoctions of viburnum for hypertension, angina pectoris, atherosclerosis, heart pain. The plant also lowers the level of "bad" cholesterol, strengthens blood vessels.
- Pathologies of the nervous system. Taking viburnum is useful in the presence of convulsions, insomnia, headaches, and neurosis. The high content of minerals and vitamins will make it possible to compensate for their deficiency, and thanks to lowering blood pressure, normalizing metabolism, one can more successfully cope with diseases of the nervous system.
- Dermatological diseases. With the help of a decoction, you can reduce inflammation, remove itching, redness of the skin. Also, decoctions of these berries will help in the presence of eczema, furunculosis. Thanks to tannins and organic acids, decoctions from berries destroy bacteria, accelerating the healing of abrasions.
- Inflammatory pathologies of the kidneys, urinary system. Kalina is a useful product for cystitis, pyelonephritis.
Useful properties of juice
Viburnum juice is an excellent helper for the body's defenses, because this drink contains several times more vitamin C than citrus fruits. It also contains other vitamins and minerals.
But the main ingredient is pectin. It is known for its beneficial effect on the work of the intestines, cleanses it. Also in the fruits there are phytoncides, organic acids, essential oils.
Due to such a “cocktail”, we can talk about the benefits of juice, which has a beneficial effect on the body: antibacterial, antipyretic, regenerating. The juice also helps with hypertension - those who suffer from high blood pressure are advised to take pure viburnum juice every day.
The drink also cleanses the vascular walls from the appearance of cholesterol plaques, and has a positive effect on the entire vascular system. Also, juice is an excellent natural prevention of stroke, heart pathologies.
Properties and use of viburnum seeds
The shape of the bone resembles a heart. And it's not just that. And all because they have components that heal the system and strengthen the heart. However, it must be remembered that they have a diuretic effect - those who have puffiness should remember this.
The bones contain a high percentage of active ingredients. The oil obtained from the seeds is used in cooking as a food additive. The oil obtained from the seeds is included in the composition of some medicinal and cosmetic preparations.
The oil is also rich in natural carotenoids. This substance will prevent the occurrence of cancer. And due to the presence of an antioxidant effect, the bones slow down the aging process, protect the body from the effects of harmful factors.
With regular consumption of the bone, you can avoid the appearance of stones in the kidneys, bile duct. They also cleanse the body of toxins.
At the same time, the normalization of the work of the main body systems (gastrointestinal tract, intestines) will positively affect the appearance and general well-being. So, headaches will pass, performance will improve. It is enough to eat 15 seeds every day to achieve a therapeutic effect.
Some people use seeds instead of coffee. They are simply roasted in a dry frying pan, ground, then brewed like traditional coffee. The drink prepared in this way has a stimulating effect.
Viburnum leaves - properties, application
The leaves of this plant are no less useful than the rest of the viburnum. And all thanks to the many useful substances. So, they have tannins, ursolic acid, arbutin glycoside, ascorbic acid and a lot of macronutrients.
Use them fresh or dry. You can squeeze juice from fresh raw materials: just chop the leaves in a blender, squeeze the mass through gauze. The resulting drink should be taken 60 ml three times a day.
According to folk healers, this juice has a healing effect, helps to relieve severe menstrual pain. And to make the drink pleasant to the taste, it is enough to add a little honey to it.
The juice can also be used externally. It has a regenerating effect, helping to more successfully fight lichen, furunculosis.
On the basis of dried leaves, decoctions and infusions are made: they will help to cope with sore throats, diseases of the oral cavity. Simply rinsing your mouth with them is enough to achieve a therapeutic effect. And taking such a remedy inside will be an excellent assistant in the fight against helminths. Healthy tea is also prepared from dry raw materials: it will strengthen the immune system.
What is the use of plant bark?
They use not only berries and leaves, but also bark - decoctions and tinctures prepared on its basis have an excellent healing effect due to the presence of useful elements in the composition. So, the bark has an antispasmodic effect. Medicines from the bark help with:
- insomnia;
- nervous disorders.
Decoctions help relieve inflammation, stop bleeding. Pharmaceutical preparations based on the bark are very common, which help women recover faster after childbirth.
Is it possible to give viburnum to children?
If the child does not suffer from any special pathologies, then viburnum can be introduced into the diet from the first year. True, like any new product, viburnum is introduced gradually, starting with 0.5 tsp. per day. If the child likes the taste, there are no adverse reactions, you can slightly increase the dosage.
It is also worth remembering that viburnum is a rather hypoallergenic product. In small quantities, it can be given even to children with allergies. At the same time, many doctors believe that the use of this berry on a regular basis can reduce the manifestation of unwanted reactions of the body.
Berries have the same effect on the children's body as on an adult:
- increase immunity;
- help with colitis, constipation;
- relieve headache;
- lower blood sugar levels.
A child can be given viburnum in the form of juices, prepare fruit drinks, or simply sprinkle fresh berries with sugar.
Contraindications: what you need to remember?
Despite the rich vitamin composition and a lot of useful substances, you need to remember about contraindications. They must be studied before using red viburnum, so as not to worsen the health situation.
You can not use decoctions, infusions, viburnum juices with:
- increased blood clotting, a tendency to thrombosis (since the plant acts as a coagulant);
- gout due to the high content of purines, which can cause the formation of salts in the joints (this prohibition is more relevant for men);
- urolithiasis;
- peptic ulcer of the stomach and intestines;
- increased acidity of the stomach (viburnum contributes to the production of hydrochloric acid, bile, which can cause an exacerbation of chronic diseases);
- hypotension (consumption of viburnum can cause fainting, dizziness);
- diabetes mellitus (due to the presence of invert sugar in the berries);
- enuresis (due to strong diuretic properties);
- chronic pathologies during periods of exacerbations.
It is also recommended to abandon viburnum during pregnancy, since the berries contain phytohormones, which are similar to female sex hormones. Their excess can cause miscarriage, the development of pathologies in the fetus.
Ways to use viburnum in cooking
Kalina is a popular ingredient in the kitchen, because it is not only healthy, but also very tasty berries. First of all, they can be consumed fresh - as a treat or as an addition to morning porridge for breakfast. Moreover, you can save the harvest of the berry simply by freezing it.
But also fruits:
- dried;
- dry;
- squeeze juice (including from seeds);
- added as a filling to pies, other pastries;
- used for making fruit drinks, mousse, jelly, and other sweets.
The berry has also been widely used in the preparation of alcoholic beverages. The most famous liqueur on the fruits of the plant is Kalinovka. But adherents of a healthy lifestyle will really like viburnum tea or coffee.
Application in medicine and cosmetology
Kalina is a unique berry. It has found application not only in the field of cooking - it is used by folk healers, famous cosmetic companies in the manufacture of products.
In medicine
In the field of medicine, almost all parts of viburnum are used for the preparation of decoctions, infusions, healthy juice. The list of diseases for which this plant is effective is quite wide:
- cold;
- dyspnea;
- vascular and heart diseases;
- headaches, including migraines;
- various female pathologies;
- skin diseases;
- oncology;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
It is also known that viburnum activates brain activity. If you include it in the diet, you can avoid problems with memory, absent-mindedness.
The plant is also the basis of vitamin drinks, which are an excellent prophylactic during periods of flu and colds.
In cosmetology
Kalina has found application in the field of cosmetology for the following reasons:
- Ascorbic acid in the composition of the berry is a natural antioxidant that fights the very first manifestations of skin aging. For the same reason, it can also be used for problematic skin to make it look younger and more beautiful. To do this, you just need to make a maxi based on viburnum.
- Kalina regulates the sebaceous glands. Using masks or lotions based on berries will eliminate signs of shininess - this is a great option for oily skin.
- Viburnum is also used to whiten the face in the presence of freckles. pigment spots.
- It will help get rid of acne - viburnum has bactericidal properties.
- Kalina is an excellent tonic. So, berry-based masks or tonics are absolutely suitable for any skin, you just need to choose additional components. And to get just a refreshing effect, it is enough to use frozen viburnum juice.
It is also used to strengthen and stimulate hair growth - viburnum infusion is ideal for this. It can also be added to the bath in the presence of skin pathologies - they will help relieve inflammation, fight eczema, and other skin pathologies. And if you freeze the juice and wipe your face with a cube in the morning, you can reduce the number of wrinkles.
Healthy Recipes
There are dozens of recipes for preparing this berry - you can cook sweet liqueurs, healthy decoctions, just grind the fruits with honey or sugar.
Kalina with honey
For medicinal purposes, whole berries are used, which are aged in honey. Such a mass is an excellent protection against SARS, influenza, as it strengthens the immune system.
You need the following ingredients:
- a bunch of viburnum (about 200 g);
- melted honey (about 200 ml).
There is nothing complicated in cooking: rinse the berries thoroughly, dry them, then dip them in honey and leave there for 6-7 hours so that the viburnum is saturated with nectar. It remains to shift the soaked berries into a separate container and dry a little.
Kalina with sugar
Cooking viburnum with sugar is very simple. First you need to buy all the necessary components:
- 300 g sugar (can be replaced with honey);
- 300 g viburnum.
Step by step preparation:
- We wash the berries, dry them.
- We put it in a saucepan, knead it with a fork as thoroughly as possible so that the juice comes out.
- Pour 2/3 of the indicated amount of sugar, mix.
- We put the mass in a sterilized container, leaving a little space on top.
- Add the remaining sugar, close the containers and store the viburnum with sugar in a cool place.
Viburnum jam
To make jam, take the following ingredients:
- 800 g of sugar;
- 200 ml of water;
- 1 kg of red viburnum.
Walkthrough:
- Rinse the berries, dry on a piece of cloth and send to the pan, add clean water.
- When the mass boils, wait 2-3 minutes. In parallel, make syrup in another container: combine the drive and sugar together, boil until a homogeneous consistency is obtained.
- When the first bubbles appear, pour the viburnum mass into syrup, boil for about 30-40 minutes. Leave the jam to infuse for 5 hours, then boil it again. Do not forget - you need to stir the mass regularly and remove the foam.
- Bring the mass to a thick consistency and pour into sterilized jars.
Store jam in a dark dry place.
Bring the sweet mass to a thick state, pour into sterilized jars. Seal with dry lids. After cooling, store the product in a dark place.
Tea with viburnum
Making tea is not difficult. You will need:
- a small bunch of berries;
- a glass of boiling water;
- sugar or honey to taste.
Rinse the berries, remove the inflorescences, put in a saucepan, mash with a fork and add boiling water. Wait 7-10 minutes for the drink to infuse, add honey or sugar to taste.
Additionally, you can add lemon, other citrus fruits. But to make tea even more beneficial, you can use any fruit or herb, depending on what effect you want to achieve:
- Ivan tea will help fight insomnia, calm the nervous system if you add viburnum to it;
- hawthorn fruit combined with a berry is an excellent drink that will help fight the effects of a stroke;
- wild rose or beak, which can be supplemented with tea, will significantly enhance the defenses of the immune system.
Coffee with viburnum
Coffee prepared according to this recipe will turn out to be invigorating and vitamin. To make one cup of coffee you need:
- glass of water;
- 1 tsp instant coffee;
- a small bunch of viburnum (to get 2 tsp juice);
- 2 tsp Sahara.
Cooking:
- We wash the berries, cover with sugar, grind with a pusher. We filter the resulting juice, remove the skins of berries, seeds.
- Pour boiling water over coffee, add juice, sugar to taste.
viburnum syrup
To prepare healthy viburnum syrup, you need the following ingredients:
- 300 g of sugar;
- 300 g viburnum.
The preparation is simple:
- Rinse the berry, remove the inflorescences.
- Transfer the viburnum and sugar to a blender, grind everything to make a puree.
- Leave for 1-1.5 hours, stirring several times.
- Using gauze, separate the pulp from the juice.
Ready syrup is stored in the refrigerator. It must be poured into glass containers.
Viburnum liqueur
Ingredients needed:
- 7 kg of viburnum berries;
- 2.5 kg of sugar.
Cooking:
- Sort the berries, rinse, pour into a suitable container, add sugar, tie the throat of the container with gauze, send to a dark place for 4 days.
- When signs of fermentation appear, you need to remove the gauze, insert a special water seal (this is a rubber tube with a diameter of about 1 cm and a length of up to 40 cm). One end of the shutter is inserted into the cork, the other - into a glass of water. If you miss this moment, oxygen will enter the container, which will lead to the oxidation of the liquor.
- The drink is kept in this form for about three weeks until the fermentation stops. It remains to strain and bottle the liquor.
viburnum liqueur
The ingredients for the liqueur are as follows:
- 1 liter of vodka;
- 1.5 kg viburnum;
- 400 ml of water;
- 1.2 kg of sugar.
Making a drink is easy:
- Pour boiling water over the berries, pour into a container, add 400 g of sugar. Leave in the sun for a couple of days. Add vodka and leave for another week.
- Make syrup from the remaining water and sugar, cool it to a temperature of +30 degrees, pour into a bottle, leave for a month. It remains to filter the drink and pour into separate bottles.
Tincture on viburnum
For the preparation of tincture according to the classic recipe, a minimum of components is required. Ingredients:
- 1 kg of viburnum;
- 1 liter of high-quality vodka (you can take moonshine).
Cooking step by step:
- Prepare the berries, pour them into a three-liter container, pour vodka so that the liquid covers the viburnum by 2-3 cm.
- Close the jar with a lid and send it to a dark place for 4-5 weeks to infuse at room temperature. Shake the container once a week.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth. Squeeze the berries, discard.
- Bottle the drink and send it to permanent storage.
The shelf life of the tincture is 3 years, the main thing is that sunlight does not fall on the container.
A decoction of viburnum
To make a healing decoction, you need:
- 2 tbsp viburnum;
- 400 ml of boiling water.
It's easy to prepare:
- Mash the berries in an enamel pan.
- Pour a glass of boiling water, heat for about 15 minutes in a water bath, judge.
- Strain, add another glass of boiled water.
You need to take 60 ml 4 times a day. This decoction is especially useful for colds, gastritis, to normalize blood pressure.
A decoction can also be prepared from the flowers of the plant. You need to take 1 tsp. dry mixture, pour a glass of boiling water and infuse in a water bath for 20 minutes. It remains to sue and strain the resulting liquid.
With the help of a flower decoction, you can fight ulcers, eczema, cuts, boils, acne. It is enough just to irrigate problem areas several times a day. The decoction is also taken orally: it helps with insomnia, depression ulcers, and menstrual irregularities.
Features of harvesting and storage
The bark of the plant is harvested during the period of sap flow - usually this is the end of March or the beginning of April. Inflorescences can be collected after their full disclosure, berries - from mid-September. And in order for the fruits to be preserved in one piece, they should be cut along with the stalk.
But viburnum, which is harvested after the first frost, is considered the most useful - the berries contain a maximum of useful elements and practically no bitterness.
The harvested crop can be frozen and dried. In the first case, they just need to be packaged in bags and sent to the freezer. In the second - spread out in an even layer in a dry and ventilated room for at least 10-12 days. Then it remains to dry them at a temperature of +50 degrees, spread the dry berries in linen bags.
Kalina is an effective folk remedy. Moreover, not only the berries of the plant are useful, but also the bark, leaves, inflorescences. However, it should be taken carefully for treatment purposes, not forgetting about contraindications.
