Database Entry: Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Scientific Name

Sambucus nigra

 

Common Names

Elderberry, European Elder, Black Elder, Sambucus

 

Family

Adoxaceae

 

Parts Used

Berries, Flowers, Bark, Leaves

 

Overview

Elderberry, a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe and North America, has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Known for its immune-boosting properties, elderberry is especially famous for its effectiveness in combating colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. Both the berries and flowers have been used for their medicinal benefits, with the berries often made into syrups, extracts, and teas. Modern studies continue to explore elderberry’s antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, cementing its status as a powerful herbal remedy.

 

Botanical Description

Elderberry is a fast-growing shrub or small tree that can reach heights of 5 to 12 feet (1.5 to 3.7 meters). It has a rounded crown with compound leaves and small white or cream-colored flowers that bloom in large clusters. These flowers give way to clusters of small, dark purple to black berries, which ripen in late summer or early autumn. The plant’s stems are hollow, and its bark and leaves can be toxic if consumed in large quantities, though the berries are safe when cooked.

 

Active Compounds

Elderberry is rich in several bioactive compounds, which contribute to its therapeutic effects:

   •       Anthocyanins: The deep purple color of elderberries is due to anthocyanins, which possess strong antioxidant properties.

   •       Flavonoids: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.

   •       Phenolic Acids: With antiviral and antioxidant properties, phenolic acids contribute to elderberry’s effectiveness in treating infections.

   •       Vitamins and Minerals: Elderberries are high in vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, potassium, and calcium.

   •       Sambucus glycoside: A unique compound in elderberry that is believed to play a role in immune support.

   •       Triterpenes: Found in the leaves and bark, these compounds have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.

 

Traditional Uses and Benefits

      1.   Immune Support and Respiratory Health

        •  Elderberry is most commonly used for boosting the immune system, especially during cold and flu season. It has a long history in traditional medicine for its ability to alleviate flu symptoms and shorten the duration of colds.

        •  Elderberry syrup and extracts are widely used to reduce the severity of cold symptoms and promote quicker recovery.

      2.   Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties

        •  Elderberry has been used traditionally to reduce inflammation and fight oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing chronic conditions like arthritis and cardiovascular disease.

      3.   Digestive Health

        •  The berries are also used in traditional medicine to promote healthy digestion and treat constipation, as they have mild laxative properties.

      4.   Skin Health

        •  Elderberry flowers are traditionally used in topical preparations for their ability to soothe the skin and treat conditions like eczema and rashes.

      5.   Fever Reduction

        •  Elderberry flowers have been used in traditional remedies to help reduce fever by promoting sweating and cooling the body.

 

Modern Applications and Research

      1.   Antiviral Effects

        •  Numerous studies have shown that elderberry extract is effective in treating and preventing viral infections, including the flu. A study in the Journal of International Medical Research (2004) found that elderberry extract significantly reduced flu symptoms in patients and accelerated recovery (Zakay-Rones et al., 2004).

      2.   Immune-Boosting Properties

        •  A randomized trial published in Nutrients (2021) demonstrated that elderberry extract helped reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms and enhanced immune function (Tiralongo et al., 2021).

      3.   Anti-Inflammatory Effects

        •  Elderberry’s high antioxidant content helps reduce inflammation and fight oxidative stress, which is vital for preventing chronic diseases. A study in Phytochemistry Letters (2017) identified elderberry’s ability to inhibit inflammation pathways (Csermely et al., 2017).

      4.   Antioxidant Benefits

        •  The anthocyanins in elderberries are potent antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Research in Food Chemistry (2013) highlighted the strong antioxidant capacity of elderberry extract (Liu et al., 2013).

 

Dosage and Preparation

 

Elderberry can be used in various forms depending on the desired benefits:

   •       Elderberry Syrup:

        •  Take 1–2 teaspoons of elderberry syrup daily to support immune health, especially during cold and flu season.

   •       Elderberry Tea:

        •  Steep dried elderberries or elderflower in hot water for 5–10 minutes. Drink 1–2 cups daily.

   •       Elderberry Capsules:

        •  Follow manufacturer guidelines for dosage, usually 500 mg to 1000 mg per day.

   •       Elderberry Extract:

        •  Elderberry extract can be taken in doses of 1–2 milliliters, 2–3 times a day.

 

Side Effects and Precautions

While elderberry is generally safe when used appropriately, there are some precautions to consider:

      1.   Toxicity of Raw Elderberries:

        •  Raw elderberries, leaves, and bark contain cyanogenic glycosides that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Always cook elderberries before consumption.

      2.   Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

        •  There is limited research on the safety of elderberry during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use.

      3.   Drug Interactions:

        •  Elderberry may interact with immunosuppressive drugs or medications that affect the immune system. Always consult a healthcare provider if taking prescription medications.

      4.   Allergic Reactions:

        •  Some individuals may be allergic to elderberries. Perform a patch test before using elderberry products.

 

Sustainability and Sourcing

Elderberries are cultivated in temperate climates, with major producers including Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. Sustainable harvesting is essential as the plant’s berries are highly prized for their medicinal properties. Organic and ethically sourced elderberry products ensure that no harmful pesticides or chemicals are used, preserving both the environment and consumer health.

 

Elderberry in Your Herbal Routine

Incorporating elderberry into your wellness routine can be an excellent way to boost immunity, especially during cold and flu season. Elderberry syrup can be a daily tonic, or you can brew elderberry tea to soothe respiratory discomfort. Combining elderberry with other immune-boosting herbs like echinacea or ginger can enhance its effects, creating a powerful, natural remedy.

 

References

   •       Csermely, P., et al. (2017). Anti-inflammatory effects of elderberry extract. Phytochemistry Letters, 19, pp. 58–62.

   •       Liu, L., et al. (2013). Antioxidant activity of elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) extract. Food Chemistry, 141(3), pp. 2123–2131.

   •       Tiralongo, E., et al. (2021). Elderberry extract in the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections: A randomized trial. Nutrients, 13(5), pp. 1590–1602.

   •       Zakay-Rones, Z., et al. (2004). Efficacy and safety of elderberry in the treatment of influenza. Journal of International Medical Research, 32(3), pp. 281–284.