Elderberry (2024)

FAQs

Is there any evidence that elderberry actually works? ›

Elderberry is commonly used for the common cold, flu, high cholesterol, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses, with the possible exception of the flu.

How much elderberry should you take? There is no standard dose of elderberry. For flu, some studies have used 1 tablespoon of an elderberry syrup extract four times a day. Another common form of elderberry is a lozenge, often with zinc, that is taken numerous times daily after a cold begins.

Whether you try an elderberry gummy is up to you. While some evidence supports their use for reducing cold symptoms, it isn't enough that these claims can be made definitively. If you decide to try elderberry gummies, make sure to choose a high quality product that contains a research-backed dose of elderberry.

The berries and flowers of elderberry are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system. They could help tame inflammation, lessen stress, and help protect your heart, too. Some experts recommend elderberry to help prevent and ease cold and flu symptoms.

Another thing to keep in mind? Elderberry is not FDA-approved because it's regulated as a supplement, not a drug. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) isn't required to approve a supplement prior to sale and companies manufacturing them are responsible for their safety and labeling them properly.

The common side effects of taking raw elderberry plant products, such as fruit, flower, leaves, bark, or root include: Stomach problems. Nausea and vomiting. Diarrhea and constipation.

Because elderberry may stimulate the immune system, it could interfere with medications taken to suppress the immune system. These medications include corticosteroids (prednisone) and medications used to treat autoimmune diseases. People with organ transplants should also avoid elderberry.

Cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers and liver and kidney function are not altered in postmenopausal women after ingesting an elderberry extract rich in anthocyanins for 12 weeks. J Nutr. 2009 Dec;139(12):2266-71. doi: 10.3945/jn.

The bark, unripe berries, and seeds contain small amounts of substances known as lectins, which can cause stomach problems if too much is eaten (2). In addition, the elderberry plant contains substances called cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide in some circ*mstances.

When it comes to maintaining a strong immune system, black elderberries (Sambucus nigra) are the preferred choice.

Is elderberry syrup or pill better? ›

The most potent form of elderberry is raw elderberry syrup (Dr. Mobley suggests syrup made with organic, fresh-pressed elderberries). The syrup is absorbed most quickly by the body—whereas if you take elderberry gummies, capsules, lozenges, or teas, they're less potent and/or take longer for the body to digest.

They are natural remedies with antiviral properties, especially against different strains of influenza virus. Sambucol was shown to be effective in vitro against 10 strains of influenza virus. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study, Sambucol reduced the duration of flu symptoms to 3-4 days.

Long-Term Supplementation of Black Elderberries Promotes Hyperlipidemia, but Reduces Liver Inflammation and Improves HDL Function and Atherosclerotic Plaque Stability in Apolipoprotein E-Knockout Mice.

Aid Weight Loss

Since elderberries are rich in fiber, they could improve satiety. Feeling full longer could aid your weight loss goals. In one study, participants that consumed elderberry juice enriched with elderflower saw an improvement in weight regulation.

“While studies have yet to show a direct connection between elderberry and chronic lung conditions, elderberry does contain quercetin, which is a flavonoid and antioxidant that's known to support lung function, especially in those who suffer from asthma and chronic obtrusive pulmonary disease (COPD),” Jones explained.

Elderberry is marketed mostly for immune support. Some research suggests it reduces the severity and duration of symptoms associated with the flu or common cold. However, it does not prevent infections or illnesses. There is limited data on the uses of elderberry other than viral infection symptom management.

Conclusions. Elderberry may be a safe option for treating viral respiratory illness, and there is no evidence that it overstimulates the immune system.

When it comes to maintaining a strong immune system, black elderberries (Sambucus nigra) are the preferred choice.

The in vivo effects suggest that berry flavonoids or their metabolites are bioavailable to the brain. Elderberry contains especially high amounts of anthocyanins and flavonols (Wu et al., 2004; Lee and Finn, 2007; Mikulic-Petkovsek et al., 2012), and there is evidence for anthocyanins to cross the blood-brain barrier.