Elderberry, or elder, has been used for centuries to treat injuries and for respiration illnesses. In many nations , elder flower is used to treat colds and influenza. Some evidence suggests that chemicals in elder flower and berries may help to reduce swelling in mucous membranes ( like the sinuses ) and decrease nasal congestion. Elder may have anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anticancer properties.
Elderberry also contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties and may help prevent damage to the body’s cells. Nevertheless only a few studies have been done in humans, so that the usefulness of elder isn’t fully known.
There are a few species of elder, but Sambucus nigra, or european elder ( also called black elder ), is the used most often for medical purposes. It is crucial that you avoid dwarf elder ( Sambucus ebulus ), which can be poisonous. It is important to employ a trusted preparation of elder because raw or unripe fruit — as well as the leaves, seeds, and bark — of the plant contain a chemical related to cyanide, which is lethal.
Elder Plant
european elder is an enormous shrub or little tree that grows up to 30 feet tall in wet or dry soil in a bright location. It is native to Europe, Africa, and parts of East Asia, but has become naturalized in the U. S. . Deciduous leaves grow in opposite pairs and have five to seven leaflets. Flowers are white and flat-topped with five primary rays. Berries are green, turning red and then black when ripe.
Parts Used :
The berries and flowers are used medicinally. Berries must be cooked before they’re consumed. Raw berries contain a chemical like cyanide.
Medicinal Uses and prospects :
Colds and influenza
By lessening congestion and most likely inflating perspiration, elder may help in reducing the symptoms of colds and flu. One study recommended that using a homogenized elderberry extract, Sambucol, could shorten the period of flu by about 3 days. Sambucol also contains other herbs plus vitamin C, so it is not known whether elder on its own would have a similar effect.
Bacterial Sinusitis ( Sinus Infection )
One study inspected the use of a proprietary product, Sinupret, to treat bacterial sinusitis with an antibiotic ( doxycycline or Vibramycin ) and a decongestant. People who received the mix had significant improvement compared to people who did not take Sinupret. However Sinupret contains other herbs as well as elder, so it isn’t possible to say whether taking elder alone would have an identical effect.
Available Forms :
Elder is available as a liquid, syrup, tincture, capsules, and lozenges. Dried elder flower is usually homogenized to at least 0.8% flavonoids. Sambucol is standardized to 38% elderberry extract for adults and 19% for children. Sinupret contains 18 mg of elder flower.
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