RESEARCH SNAPSHOT:
Elder for reducing viral recovery time
Elder (sambucus nigra) berry & flowers have a strong tradition for use in common colds and influenza. A Norwegian randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 60 people showed that the elderberry group had significant improvement in global evaluation scores (symptoms) in Influenza A & B after an average of 3.1 days compared to 7.1 in the placebo group. Similarly another study found that influenza was reduced to 2-4 days compared to the control group 7-8 days, and an in vitro study found that elderberry liquid extract compared favourably to anti-influenza medication oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and amantadine. A review of several studies also found that elderberry substantially reduces symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection. Pharmacological studies suggest its antiviral actions are associated with its effect on the production of inflammatory cytokines; an immune signalling mechanism. A 2016 Australian randomised double-blind controlled trial of 312 economy class passengers found that those taking Elderberry 10 days before travel experienced a shorter cold duration by approximately 2 days compared to placebo, with reduced symptom severity. Initial studies have found that elderberry has benefits for heart health by improving blood sugar controls, reducing uric acid (linked to high blood pressure) and reducing cholesterol in liver & aorta.
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This information is intended for educational purposes only. Please consult a health care provider before pursuing any herbal treatments. Herbs can interact with pharmaceutical medications. References available on request.