Food for Thought Elderberry Mickayla Hosking
The Elder tree, or Sambucus nigra, produces these small, seedy, deep purple berries that hold a renowned power. It’s common in cold and flu herbal mixes, especially with children, due to its antiviral, immune enhancing and anti-inflammatory properties. The berries themselves are usually made into a syrup as ingesting them raw can lead to digestive upset. There is some evidence that the berries can help relieve pain and the histamine response in sinus and allergy conditions. It’s a great folk remedy for illness prevention and to shorten the length of winter sickness. The Elder tree also produces a stunning umbrella of white flowers prior to the berries which are used traditionally for respiratory infections and sinus infections.
38 | Embrace
A study by Hawkins, et al. (2018) suggests that for upper respiratory conditions, such as the common cold and mild flu, Elderberry was able to reduce the severity of symptoms. Tiralongo, et al. (2016) followed such evidence, demonstrating placebo groups had longer cold duration and symptoms score was higher (i.e. more severe). This study included air travel, as this is usually a place where our immune systems are compromised and most likely to stain the passengers health (i.e. flights are stressful). Elderberries have antibacterial and antiviral properties which make them perfect for cold and flu season as immune support. Two clinical trials using a liquid elderberry extract (Sambucol®) showed a reduction in symptoms and duration of influenza infection. A pilot trial with elderberry extract lozenges also confirmed a beneficial effect on severity and duration of cold and flu like symptoms.
