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Health benefits of elderberry

People have used elderberry for its health benefits for hundreds of years. Elderberry contains antioxidants, and many believe it can relieve colds, fight the flu, and boost the immune system.

There is little scientific research into the effects of elderberries on people’s health. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) state that more research is needed to confirm the truth of these possible health benefits.

This article will evaluate the evidence for these claims. It will also look at the possible side effects of consuming raw elderberries and suggest methods of preparation.

What are elderberries?
Share on PinterestEating cooked elderberries may reduce the symptoms of colds and the flu.

Elderberries are the fruit of the Sambucus tree. The most common type is the Sambucus nigra.

The tree has clusters of small white or cream elderflowers and bunches of small blue or black elderberries.

Native Americans and European herbalists have long used elderberries for their supposed range of health benefits. These include boosting the immune system to help the body fight off colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.

Evidence-based health benefits of elderberries
The elderberry contains certain compounds and substances that might have a beneficial impact on health.

We take a look at the evidence behind some of the main reported health benefits of elderberries:

Fighting colds and flu
There is some evidence to support the claim that elderberry can help treat colds and flu, though the available studies are small.

A systematic review from 2010 concluded that elderberries might have antioxidant and antiviral effects, though the authors state that more research is needed.

In one study, 60 people with flu-like symptoms took 15 milliliters (ml) of elderberry syrup four times a day. Their symptoms improved 4 days before the people who took a placebo.

In another study, 32 people with flu-like symptoms took lozenges containing 175 milligrams (mg) of elderberry extract four times a day for 2 days. After 24 hours, they reported an improvement in symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and nasal congestion.

A double-blind, randomized control trial looked at whether elderberry extract could prevent people from experiencing cold-like symptoms after traveling on an airplane. People took lozenges containing 300 mg of elderberry extract and 150 mg of rice flour twice a day for 10 days before traveling.

Researchers found that the capsules did not prevent the symptoms, but people who took elderberry had less severe symptoms that lasted for a shorter time.

Treating acne
Elderberry fruit contains high levels of flavonoids, which means it might have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These help to protect healthy cells from harmful free radicals that play a role in skin problems.

The American Nutrition Association (ANA) suggest that using an elderberry face wash can help fight acne because of its antiseptic effects.

Reducing wrinkles
Elderberries contain high levels of vitamin A. The ANA also say that elderberries may soothe the skin, help ease the appearance of age spots, and prevent or lessen wrinkles.

Article Credit; Medical News Today