{"id":1896,"date":"2020-07-13T11:27:08","date_gmt":"2020-07-13T10:27:08","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/84.18.216.250\/~herbalreality\/?post_type=herb&p=1896"},"modified":"2026-04-16T14:16:43","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T13:16:43","slug":"elderberry","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/elderberry\/","title":{"rendered":"Elderberry"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":299842,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_integration_method":"rest-api","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"9a038f0a-2bf9-4df7-b923-ab4db7d99d55","beyondwords_preview_token":"418877d4-a7ac-4da8-a371-4274348ef603","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[42,112,113,54,43,58],"conditions":[695,694,701],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[18,17,31,27],"western_action":[1831,989,992,993,994,1000,1007,1010,1015,1016,1017],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[1499,1498,1487,1488,1381,1490,1496,1494,1492],"writer":[1235],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-1896","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-digestion","tag-elder","tag-elderberries","tag-flu","tag-indigestion","tag-inflammation","conditions-respiratory-system","conditions-cardiovascular-system","conditions-immune-system","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-bitter","sense-aromatic","sense-astringent-taste","sense-sweet","western_action-antiviral","western_action-alterative","western_action-anti-inflammatory","western_action-antimicrobial","western_action-antioxidant","western_action-astringent","western_action-diaphoretic","western_action-expectorant","western_action-immunomodulant","western_action-laxative","western_action-nervine","energetics_action-astringent","energetics_action-bitter","energetics_action-dry","energetics_action-moist","energetics_action-neutral","energetics_action-relaxing","energetics_action-sour","energetics_action-sweet","energetics_action-toning","writer-ruth-weaver","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20260216","herb_author":2021,"banner_text":"Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and offer support for colds and flu","latin_name":"Sambucus nigra<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Adoxaceae","herb_summary":"Elderberries are a native medicine offering seasonal support for colds and flus. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C helping to support cellular health and immunity.","key_benefits":"Flus\r\nColds\r\nHayfever\r\nFever\r\nImmune system\r\nAids circulation\r\nSinusitis\r\nSupports the lymphatic system","how_does_it_feel":"Elderberry has a rich, fruity and sour taste profile whether used as a tea, tincture or syrup. Elderberry is often used in the form of a syrup. The sweetness and viscosity of honey or sugar blended with elderberries makes for an excellent way to take this medicine, as it adds to the flavour and absorptive qualities. Elderberry is cooling and sweet, as well as sour. As a sialagogue, it increases the saliva in the mouth on tasting despite its astringent actions. <\/span>","hdif_image_1":13536,"hdif_image_2":5162,"hdif_image_3":299839,"hdif_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=lJpcvyHDSsg","sense":[17,31,18,27],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"[caption id=\"attachment_299843\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"514\"]\"Elderberry Elderberry (Sambucus nigra<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nElderberry is an essential in any family first aid cupboard. A syrup made using honey or sugar is the most popular way to use this invaluable medicine. It is considered safe for all the family, and appeals to children owing to its rich sweet flavour.<\/span>\r\n\r\nElderberry provides a\u00a0 rich source of vitamin C, anthocyanins and flavonoids. All of which are powerful antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals. These protective properties make elderberry a potent medicine for restoring cellular health and immunity. As a nourishing, energy rich autumn medicine, it can be used to improve overall health and resilience to viruses\u2019 during the cold winter months (1).<\/span>\r\n\r\nElderberry has a strong affinity for the respiratory system and encourages the process of expectoration through reducing acute and chronic mucus congestion. Elderberry is\u00a0 incredibly soothing and will coat the mucous membranes, alleviating sore throats and irritating coughs whilst also bolstering immunity (1).<\/span>\r\n\r\nElderberry has also been shown to neutralise the neuraminidase enzyme responsible for helping the flu virus enter the body and prevent viral proliferation in the respiratory mucous membranes, neutralising 10 strains of flu virus (2). A randomised double blind controlled trial found elderberry to be effective in reducing the length and severity of cold symptoms by up to two days when compared with a placebo group (3).<\/span>\r\n\r\nElderberry can be taken throughout autumn and winter as a preventative therapy,\u00a0 and may also be taken at the onset of a viral infection to support an effective immune response.<\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"Energetically, elderberry is considered gently warming and drying. From an Ayurvedic perspective, the berries and flowers are both used to decrease pitta and clear excess kapha, due to its action of clearing inflammation and stagnation of phlegm.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nElderberry is a European plant, so its uses have been most well documented in the approach of Western herbalism. According to Mathew Wood, all parts of the elder are used; the leaves, bark, and root included. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe indications for elderberry include cases of reddish, rough or dry complexion, or a mottled or blue-tinged complexion. This clinical picture is best understood to be caused by sluggish circulation or stagnation of catarrh or phlegm (4). Other clinical signs for the use of elderberry include a blue tinge on the tongue or around the eyes and mouth during fever, flus, <\/span>colds<\/span><\/a> or for other conditions. (4).<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"The elder tree has a rich and varied history of culinary, medicinal and folkloric use. For centuries, it has been associated with warding off evil and providing protection from witchcraft. Branches were often placed on or in graves for this reason. It was also viewed as a symbol for grief and sorrow, as mentioned in Shakespeare\u2019s <\/span>Cymbeline<\/span><\/i>, stemming perhaps from some sources that say the holy cross was made from an elder tree. <\/span>\r\n\r\nIn Scandinavian mythology, the elder tree was deeply connected to magic, and a dryad spirit was believed to live in the tree. If the tree was cut down, it was said she would haunt those who were responsible. In more recent times, it is better known for warding off the evil of colds and providing protection from flu.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThere are many species of elder around the world. Traditionally, almost every part of the tree is used to prepare medicines, tonics and drinks, including the flowers, berries, bark and leaves.<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"\"ImmuneElderberry is particularly cleansing to all mucous membranes in the body, with a particular affinity for the respiratory tract and the skin.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Immune system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nElderberry has powerful <\/span>antiviral<\/span><\/a> and anti-inflammatory properties, in part due to its rich vitamin C content. Elderberry is a strong <\/span>immunomodulator<\/a>, stimulating activity of the immune system. Vitamin C is an immune system enhancer and a vital co-factor in numerous enzymatic processes in the body, including blood vessel formation, wound healing mechanisms, iron absorption and energy transfer (6).<\/span>\r\n\r\nElderberry has a direct action upon the flu virus, deactivating the enzyme that encourages its proliferation within the respiratory tract. Elderberry has been shown to directly inhibit viral replication and also inhibits hemagglutination produced by the influenza virus (7).<\/span>\r\n\r\nElderberry activates pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines to be released from the immune system making it beneficial for both excessive and deficient immunity. They have a strong impact on the immune system, modulating its response and supporting it during periods of deficiency and excess (6).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Respiratory system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nElderberry is an effective expectorant for the respiratory system, helping to shift stubborn catarrh and mucus in both acute and chronic conditions. Elderberry also has a specific action in preventing an enzyme produced by the flu virus from attaching to the cilia in the mucosal membranes of the lungs.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a herb rich in vitamin C, elderberry is crucial in protecting cellular membranes and the immune system, with a specific action upon wound healing mechanisms both internally and externally. It has an astringent and toning effect upon the skin and capillary structure (8).<\/span>\r\n

Cardiovascular system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nElderberry contains anthocyanins (responsible for the purple pigment), which are flavonoids that support healthy endothelial function and vascular tone (9).<\/span>","research":"[caption id=\"attachment_299840\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"515\"]\"Elderberry Elderberry (Sambucus nigra<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nElderberry has substantial research associated with its uses for respiratory health, immune function and for its <\/span>antioxidant<\/span><\/a> properties. Several studies and systematic reviews have been included.<\/span>\r\n

Advanced research on the antioxidant and health benefit of elderberry (Sambucus nigra<\/i>) in food \u2014 a review<\/h3>\r\nA systematic review was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of elderberry consumption and its antioxidant and cellular protective potential. Both <\/span>in vitro<\/span><\/i> and human subjects were analysed. The review concludes with significant findings from a number of studies that elderberry shows positive results in the treatment of\u00a0 respiratory ailments, colds, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity. Additionally, the review confirms that elderberry shows positive effects on immune function with antiviral and antibacterial activity, as well as protection against UV radiation (6).<\/span>\r\n

A review of the antiviral properties of black elder (Sambucus nigra<\/i> L.) products<\/h3>\r\nA review of current studies evaluated the evidence for the use of elderberry extract and related products for antiviral activity,\u00a0 particularly in the treatment of influenza. The review concluded that elderberry\u2019s antiviral and antimicrobial properties are well demonstrated (10).<\/span>\r\n

Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections<\/h3>\r\nA double blind, randomised placebo controlled study was carried out to investigate the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry syrup for treating influenza type A and B infections. The study enrolled sixty patients aged between 18\u201354 years, suffering from influenza-like symptoms for a period of 48 hours or less. Half of the subjects were given 15 ml of elderberry and the other half given placebo syrup four times a day for a period of five days. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe elderberry group reported that symptoms were relieved on average around four days earlier and use of other medications was significantly less in those receiving elderberry extract compared with placebo. The study concludes that elderberry extract offers an efficient, safe and cost-effective treatment for influenza. Further studies are needed with a larger subject group to improve the evidence based for this valuable herbal medicine 11).<\/span>\r\n

Elderberry supplementation reduces cold duration and symptoms in air-travellers: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial<\/h3>\r\nA\u00a0 randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of elderberry in prevention of the common cold. Three hundred and twelve economy class passengers travelling from Australia to an overseas destination were included in the study. A standardised membrane filtered elderberry (<\/span>Sambucus nigra<\/span><\/i> L.) extract was used. The results showed that most cold episodes occurred in the placebo group. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe placebo group participants also had a significantly longer duration of cold episode days and the average symptom score was also significantly higher. The study concluded\u00a0 a significant reduction in cold duration and severity in air travellers taking\u00a0 elderberry extract (2).<\/span>","did_you_know":"The importance of elder in historical folklore is evident from the popularity of<\/span> The Anatomie of the Elder<\/span><\/i> published in 1644, which contained 230 pages dedicated to describing the medicinal properties of the plant (5).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe botanical name <\/span>Sambucus<\/span><\/i> comes from the Greek word \u2018<\/span>sambuke<\/span><\/i>\u2019 meaning \u2018a musical pipe\u2019 in reference to the hollowed branches, which were once used to make wind instruments.<\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":269074},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Elder, commonly called European elder, is a deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub (occasionally a small tree). It typically grows to 8\u201320\u2019 (less frequently to 30') tall. Elder is most known for its creamy white fragrant blossoms, the elderflowers. The tiny white flowers form in large flattened 5\u2019\u2019 umbel-like clusters.<\/span>\r\n\r\nElderflowers transform in autumn into large drooping bunches of purplish black fruits (elderberries). Its compound, pinnate leaves are roughly 10\u2019\u2019 long, dark green, each containing 3\u20137 serrated, ovate to elliptic leaflets. Leaves have a pungent aroma when cut or crushed (16).<\/span>","common_names":"