What Is Elderberry? Other Names: Arbre de Judas, Baccae, Baises de Sureau

What is Elderberry?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Elderberry, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra, is a plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It is renowned for its potential health benefits, particularly in treating and preventing various ailments such as colds, influenza, and other respiratory infections. This article explores the various aspects of elderberry, including its health benefits, scientific studies, and potential applications. Other names include: Arbre de Judas, Baccae, Baises de Sureau, Black-Berried Alder, Black Elder, Black Elderberry, Boor Tree, Bountry, Common Elder, Elder, Elder Berry, Elderberries, Elderberry Fruit, Ellanwood, Ellhorn, European Alder, European Black Elder, European Black Elderberry, European Elder, European Elderberry, European Elder Fruit, European Elderberry, Fruit de Sureau, Grand Sureau, Hautbois, Holunderbeeren, Sabugeuiro-negro, Sambequier, Sambu, Sambuc, Sambuci Sambucus, Sambucus nigra, Sambugo, Sauco, Saúco Europeo, Schwarzer Holunder, Seuillet, Seuillon, Sureau, Sureau Européen, Sureau Noir, Sus, Suseau, Sussier.

Health Benefits of Elderberry

Antiviral Properties

Elderberry is widely recognized for its antiviral properties, particularly against influenza viruses. Several studies have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing the duration and severity of flu symptoms. For instance, a study conducted during an influenza outbreak found that elderberry extract significantly improved symptoms and reduced the duration of the illness compared to a placebo10. Another study confirmed that elderberry syrup could relieve flu symptoms on average four days earlier than a placebo9.

Respiratory Health

Elderberry has also been shown to support respiratory health, especially in stressful conditions such as air travel. A clinical trial involving air travelers found that elderberry supplementation significantly reduced the duration and severity of cold episodes3. Additionally, a combination of elderberry and reishi extracts was found to reduce the duration and severity of respiratory tract infections in elderly subjects7.

Antioxidant and Lipid-Lowering Effects

Elderberry is rich in anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants. These compounds can help reduce oxidative stress and improve lipid profiles. A study investigating the effects of elderberry juice on serum lipids found that while low doses had minor effects, higher doses might significantly reduce postprandial serum lipids1. Another study demonstrated that elderberry extract could reduce oxidative DNA damage in mice, suggesting its potential as a natural antioxidant6.

Metabolic Health

Elderberry may also play a role in improving metabolic health. A pilot study found that elderberry juice increased carbohydrate oxidation after a meal tolerance test, indicating its potential to influence metabolic processes positively4. This could be particularly beneficial in addressing metabolic complications associated with obesity.

Male Fertility

Emerging research suggests that elderberry might have benefits for male fertility. A study on mice with busulfan-induced azoospermia found that an elderberry-supplemented diet improved spermatogenesis, indicating its potential as a complementary treatment for male infertility5.

Traditional and Modern Uses of Elderberry

Traditionally, elderberry has been used to treat colds, flu, and sinusitis. Its use in modern medicine continues to grow, supported by scientific evidence of its efficacy and safety. Elderberry extract is now commonly found in various forms, including syrups, capsules, and lozenges, making it accessible for daily use.

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Adverse Effects of Elderberry

General Tolerance and Safety

Elderberry juice was well tolerated in overweight and obese adults, with no significant adverse effects reported during a 5-week study period1.

In a study involving healthy volunteers, elderberry juice did not significantly alter serum lipid concentrations or LDL oxidation, indicating a minor effect on lipid profiles and antioxidative capacity2.

In mice, elderberry extract showed no pathological significance in liver histology, even at higher doses, suggesting a favorable toxicological profile3.

Specific Observations in Animal Studies

Mice consuming the highest dose of elderberry extract (48 mg/mL) drank significantly less compared to the control group, although this did not translate into any pathological changes3.

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How has Elderberry Improved Patient Outcomes?

Reduction in Influenza Symptoms and Duration

Elderberry extract has been shown to significantly reduce the duration and severity of influenza symptoms in several studies. Patients treated with elderberry reported symptom relief 4 days earlier on average compared to those receiving a placebo2 6 9.

In a study involving air travelers, elderberry supplementation significantly reduced the duration and severity of cold episodes compared to placebo4.

Antiviral Properties

Elderberry extract has demonstrated antiviral activity against multiple strains of influenza virus in vitro, inhibiting viral replication and reducing hemagglutination2 9.

Immune System Activation

Elderberry products have been found to increase the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are crucial for the immune response. This suggests that elderberry can enhance immune system activity, potentially aiding in the faster resolution of infections9.

Mixed Results in Clinical Trials

Some studies have found no significant difference in the duration or severity of influenza symptoms between elderberry and placebo groups, indicating the need for further research to confirm elderberry’s efficacy1.

Safety and Tolerability

Elderberry supplementation has been generally well-tolerated with no significant adverse effects reported. Long-term consumption of elderberry extract did not alter cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers or liver and kidney function in postmenopausal women5.

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Elderberry Mechanisms of Action

Antiviral Activity

Elderberry extract inhibits the replication of various strains of influenza viruses, including both human and animal strains, and reduces hemagglutination, which is crucial for viral entry into host cells2 7.

Clinical studies have shown that elderberry can significantly reduce the duration and severity of influenza symptoms, with improvements seen within 2-4 days of treatment2 9.

Immune System Modulation

Elderberry extract increases the production of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-8, which are essential for the immune response against infections7.

This immunostimulatory effect suggests that elderberry can enhance the body’s natural defense mechanisms, potentially offering benefits in both healthy individuals and those with compromised immune systems7.

Symptom Relief and Cold Duration

Elderberry supplementation has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms in air travelers, indicating its potential in managing respiratory health under stress1.

However, some studies have found no significant benefit of elderberry in reducing the duration or severity of influenza symptoms, highlighting the need for further research to confirm these effects4.

Antioxidant Properties

Elderberry is rich in anthocyanins, which have antioxidant properties that can reduce oxidative stress and improve overall health. This includes potential benefits in reducing oxidative DNA damage and improving lipid profiles5 8.

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Common Complaints Associated with Elderberry Use

General Tolerance and Side Effects

Elderberry juice was well tolerated in a study involving overweight and obese adults, with high compliance and no significant adverse effects reported2.

Respiratory Health

In a study of air travelers, elderberry supplementation significantly reduced the duration and severity of cold episodes compared to a placebo, suggesting it is beneficial for respiratory health without notable complaints1.

Cognitive Health

Although not directly related to elderberry, a study on anthocyanin-rich blueberries (similar to elderberries) showed cognitive benefits without significant side effects, implying that elderberry might also be well tolerated in this context3.

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Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.