Health Benefits of Elderberry

(Sambucus nigra)

The flower and berries of the elderberry plants are used for its medicinal values. It has a rich source of chemicals (such as flavonoids and anthocyanidins) that are shown to regulate and boost the immune system in lab studies, animal studies and some clinical trials

One small double-blinded clinical study show that drinking elderberry juice can help reduce the length and severity of the flu by about 50%.

Elderberry fruit is also commonly used to make wine.

Some Scientific Evidence Available	Limited Scientific Evidence
The flu (Influenza)	Common cold
Antioxidant	High cholesterol
Immune system enhancer	Sinus infections (Sinusitis)
	Bronchitis

Anecdotal Evidence - Other reported benefits of taking elderberry include treating cancer, constipation, HIV/AIDS, allergies, neuralgia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), asthma, cold sores, colic, epilepsy, headache, burns, kidney disease, stress and weight loss.

Side Effects - Reported side effects from drinking the juice include mostly stomach complaints such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps and fatigue or weakness. Allergic reactions have been reported which includes skin rash and asthma symptoms. However, the reported side effects are mild.

Dose - Suggested dose is 5 mL (1 teaspoon) to 60 mL (4 tablespoon) once to three times daily of the juice formulation (Sambucol by Nature's Way).

Related topics that may be of interest to you

Prevent & treat the flu using natural and home remedies

How to prevent and cure the common cold

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References for Benefits of Elderberry
Revised: December 30, 2010

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