Elderberry
Sambucus nigra
Numerous species of elder or elderberry grow in Europe and North America. Only those with blue/black berries are medicinal. The flowers and berries are both used. Elderberries have long been used as food, particularly in the dried form. Elderberry wine, pie, and lemonade are some of the popular ways to prepare this plant as food. The leaves were used by European herbalists for pain relief and to promote the healing of injuries when applied as a poultice. Native American herbalists used the plant for infections, coughs, and skin conditions.
- IMMUNO-STIMULANT - Elderberry is noted for its potent effects on stimulating the non-specific immune response, gently stimulate sweating during a fever, regulate temperature control, and so resolve infection more quickly and with less severe symptoms. Elderberry has been shown to have immuno-stimulatory properties when administered to patients suffering from influenza type A or B, and is likely to support individuals who are receiving chemotherapy or other treatments.
- ANTI-CATARRHAL - Elderberry has proven to be useful through its effects on improving the functioning of the mucous membranes and helping clear catarrh lining the ears, nose and throat.
- ANTI-ALLERGIC - The combination of anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and mucous membrane soothing properties provide suitable relief for hayfever sufferers.
- ANTIOXIDANT - Flavonoids, including quercetin, are believed to account for the therapeutic actions of the elderberry flowers and berries. These flavonoids include anthocyanins that are powerful antioxidants and protect cells against damage.
Dosage
400mg one to three times daily.
Potential applications
Colds and influenza virus, feverish conditions, catarrhal congestion of the upper respiratory tract, sinusitis and perennial rhinitis, hayfever and allergies, inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, fluid retention.
Known contraindications
None known.
Interactions
None known.
Use in conjunction with
- Colds and flu - Echinacea /astragalus, vitamin C, Zinc
Note
For tired or inflamed eyes, apply lukewarm elderberry flower tea on cotton wool pads to the lids of closed eyes for 5-10mins as required.
References
- Zakay-Rones Z et al. Inhibition of several strains of influenza virus in vitro and reduction of symptoms by an elderberry extract (Sambucus nigra L.) during an outbreak of influenza B Panama. J Altern Complement Med 1995 Winter;1(4):361-9
- Barak V, Birkenfeld S, Halperin T, Kalickman I. The effect of herbal remedies on the production of human inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Isr Med Assoc J 2002 Nov;4(11 Suppl):919-22
- PDR for Herbal Medicines. Second Edition. 2000
- Simon Mills. The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. 1991
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