Why Elderberry (Sambucus) is so important during cold and flu season
With Influenza season in full swing, I wanted to start with this plant. The Elder is a deciduous tree that grows purplish-blue berries in the autumn. The flowering tops and berries of the plant are used in herbal medicine. In England, elder was once known as the “nature’s medicine chest”.
Elderberry is one of the most effective herbs for preventing and treating upper respiratory infections, including several evidence-based research studies proving that it kills several strains of influenza. It is also helpful for fevers and constipation. Elderberry stimulates the immune system and has shown to help with viruses such as herpes simplex and HIV.
Elderberry contains substances called Sambucus Nigra Agglutinins that can lock receptor sites on certain strains of influenza viruses, this keeps the virus from infecting certain cells. Other flu strains send out enzyme “spikes” to dissolve the walls of healthy cells, allowing the virus to enter and infect the cell. Compounds in Elderberry stop this process, offering protection against at least eight strains of influenza. Since flu shots immunize against at most 3 strains of the virus. Elderberry extracts can provide significant added protection.
A clinical trial of Elderberry found that it may have helped reduce 90% of flu infections within 72 hours. In the same trial patients receiving a placebo needed at least 6 days from recovery. Elderberry also relieves nasal congestion and sore throats.
Elderberry comes in many forms such as tinctures, syrups, cordial, and even wine. It tastes very good and is a great way to prevent and treat influenza this season as well as many other viruses.
(This post is a re-publish from an article written by Jenna in 2018. Some information may need to be updated.)
