Several studies point to the potential of the common, but long-revered elderberry as a potent natural aid in protecting against influenza. A recent study published in the July 2009 issue of the scientific journal, Phytochemistry (2009 Jul;70(10):1255-61), declares that "elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro." Similarly, a study published in the Journal of International Medical Research (2004 Mar-Apr;32(2):132-40) examined the efficacy of black elderberry syrup (marketed under the name Sambucol) in a group of flu sufferers in Norway and determined that their symptoms were relieved on average four days earlier when taking elderberry extract compared with a control group receiving a placebo.
What is Black Elderberry?
Elderberry plants are small trees or large shrubs. Profuse sprays of tiny white blossoms adorn its branches in spring. These give way to small berries in the summer which ripen in autumn. There are many varieties and cultivars of elder, but black elder, also known as European elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is the variety which has been studied for its flu-fighting potential.
Elderberry has a long history as a folk medicine and has played an important role in many myths and legends. It grows wild readily in many parts of the world, and has been used by people for centuries as both food and medicine. Commercial cultivars for the home garden are available for purchase.
How Does Elderberry Work to Offer Natural Flu Treatment?
Elderberries are particularly rich in antioxidants in the form of flavonoids, especially anthocyanins. The anthocyanins give the elderberry its dark purple black color. According to the researchers in the study published in Phytochemistry (July 2009) the flavonoids in black elderberry extract "bind to H1N1 virions and, when bound, block the ability of the viruses to infect host cells." This binding action prevents the virus from replicating.
Researchers who conducted the study in Norway concluded that elderberry "prevent[ed] the adhesion of the virus to the cell receptors." They also determined that flavonoids in elderberries may boost the immune system by enhancing production of cytokines, which are a part of a necessary and healthy immune response. They indicated that anthocyanins have an anti-inflammatory effect comparable to aspirin. In their study the group treated with Sambucol, black elderberry extract reported a lessening of aches, pain and fever as compared to the control group who received a placebo.
Is a Cytokine Storm a Danger?
Simplified, a cytokine storm is an overreaction of the immune system where cytokine production is excessive and out of control. Scientists theorize that cytokine storms may have been the cause of many of the deaths in the 1917 flu pandemic.
There is no current evidence to suggest that elderberry extract could induce a cytokine storm, but some advise caution. Other health practitioners point to elderberry as an immunomodulator, regulating the immune response, rather than as an immune stimulator which simply boosts immune response.
Where to Buy Black Elderberry Extract
Many brands of elderberry extract are available to help protect against the flu naturally. Sambucol markets several formulations of elderberry syrup and elderberry tablets including Sambucol Original, Sambucol For Kids, and Sambucol Cold & Flu Relief. They are available online as well as in drug stores and grocery stores.
NewChapter markets Immunity Take Care® elderberry formula in lozenges. It is available online and in health food stores.
Many other companies also package and sell black elderberry extract. Formulations may vary.
Other Natural Remedies for Flu
Other natural remedies to consider for protecting against the flu include vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc supplements, essential fatty acids in the form of fish oil (some cod liver oil preparations have naturally occurring vitamin D as well), avoiding sugar and eating healthfully. Vitamin D, in particular, has shown quite a bit of potential as a flu-fighter. Several recent studies indicate that it may play a big role in helping the body combat flu.
Readers interested in natural remedies for flu and colds might like to also read the article, "Does Vitamin D Offer Natural Flu Prevention?"
Sources:
Z Zakay-Rones, E Thom, T Wollan and J Wadstein. "Randomized Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Oral Elderberry Extract in the Treatment of Influenza A and B Virus Infections". The Journal of International Medical Research 2004; 32: 132 – 140
Roschek, Bill; Fink, Ryan C.; McMichael, Matthew D.; Li, Dan; Alberte, Randall S. "Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro". Phytochemistry, Volume 70, issue 10 (July, 2009), p. 1255-1261. ISSN: 0031-9422 DOI:10.1016/j.phytochem.2009.06.003
Mary Robinson Crews - Mary is a freelance writer who holds a BA in Journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She has worked as a music ...
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