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Elderberry, or elder, has been used for centuries to treat injuries and for respiratory illnesses. In many countries , 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 surfaces ( such as the sinuses ) and decrease nasal congestion. Elder could have anti inflammatory, antiviral and anticancer properties.

Elderberry also contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties and may help stop damage to the body's cells. Nevertheless only a few studies have been done in humans, so the effectiveness of elder isn't fully known.

There are many species of elder, but Sambucus nigra, or EU elder ( also called black elder ), is the used most often for medicinal purposes. It is crucial that you avoid dwarf elder ( Sambucus ebulus ), which can be poisonous. It is vital 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 deadly.


Elder Plant

european elder is a large plant or tiny tree that grows up to 30 feet tall in wet or dry soil in a sunny location. It is native to Europe, Africa, and parts of Pacific Rim, but has become naturalized in the united states. Deciduous leaves grow in opposite pairs and have five to 7 leaflets. Flowers are white and flat-topped with 5 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 are consumed. Raw berries contain a chemical similar to cyanide.

Medicinal Uses and suggestions :

Colds and influenza

By lessening congestion and potentially skyrocketing perspiration, elder may help reduce the indicators of colds and influenza. One study recommended that employing a homogenized elderberry extract, Sambucol, could shorten the length of flu by about three days. Sambucol also contains other herbs and vitamin C, so it isn't certain 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 serious improvement compared to people who did not take Sinupret. However Sinupret contains other herbs in addition to elder, so it is not possible to say whether taking elder alone would have a similar effect.



Available Forms :


Elder is available as a liquid, syrup, tincture, capsules, and lozenges. Dried elder flower is generally standardized to at least 0.8% flavonoids. Sambucol is standardized to 38% elderberry extract for adults and 19% for children. Sinupret contains eighteen mg of elder flower.

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