Elderberry
Also known as black elderberry, elder, sambucus, sambucus nigra
Key takeaways
- Meta-analysis of RCTs shows elderberry effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms (PMID: 30670267).
- Elderberry supplementation reduced cold duration and symptoms specifically in air-travellers (PMID: 27023596).
- Elderberry extract demonstrated a reduction in symptoms during influenza B outbreaks (PMID: 9395631) and in influenza A and B infections (PMID: 15080016).
What the research shows
AI-synthesized from 12 peer-reviewed sources · Updated 2025
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a botanical supplement primarily used to treat upper respiratory infections. Research generally suggests it can reduce the duration and severity of cold and influenza symptoms when administered early.
By condition
Upper Respiratory Infections (Cold/Flu)
Moderate
Meta-analyses and RCTs indicate that elderberry supplementation effectively reduces the duration and severity of upper respiratory symptoms.
Effective doses
Specific dose ranges were not detailed in the provided abstracts, though efficacy was noted in RCTs for influenza A and B (PMID: 15080016).
Safety & interactions
FDA CAERS reports a small number of adverse events, including headaches; caution is advised regarding the preparation of raw berries which can be toxic.
Limitations
Research is limited by varying study qualities across systematic reviews and a need for more standardized dosing protocols across larger populations.
Top-rated Elderberry products
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How it's sold
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Research evidence
Showing top 10 of 12 sources, sorted by quality
**Hawkins et al., 2019** | Complement Ther Med | Meta Analysis Hawkins Jessie, Baker Colby, ... Dunne Elizabeth. Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized,…
**Tiralongo et al., 2016** | Nutrients | Rct Tiralongo Evelin, Wee Shirley S, Lea Rodney A. Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutri…
**Wieland et al., 2021** | BMC Complement Med Ther | Systematic Review Wieland L Susan, Piechotta Vanessa, ... Garritty Chantelle. Elderberry for prevention and treatment of viral respiratory illnesses: a systematic review. BMC Complement M…
**Kesheh et al., 2022** | Virol J | Meta Analysis Kesheh Mina Mobini, Shavandi Sara, ... Ramezani Fatemeh. Effect of herbal compounds on coronavirus; a systematic review and meta-analysis. Virol J. 2022-May-21;19(1):87. doi:10.1186/s12985-0…
**Schwermer et al., 2018** | Complement Ther Med | Systematic Review Schwermer Melanie, Längler Alfred, ... Zuzak Tycho Jan. Anthroposophic medicine in the treatment of pediatric pseudocroup: A systematic review. Complement Ther Med. 2018-O…
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Dry eye disease (DED) significantly impairs quality of life, affecting physical, social, and psychological well-being, as well as reducing workplace productivity. While lutein and zeaxanthin supplements have been show…
**Vlachojannis et al., 2010** | Phytother Res | Systematic Review Vlachojannis J E, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. A systematic review on the sambuci fructus effect and efficacy profiles. Phytother Res. 2010-Jan;24(1):1-8. doi:10.1002/ptr.2729 The…
**Ulbricht et al., 2014** | J Diet Suppl | Systematic Review Ulbricht Catherine, Basch Ethan, ... Wortley Jayme. An evidence-based systematic review of elderberry and elderflower (Sambucus nigra) by the Natural Standard Research Collaborati…
**NCT ID**: NCT03831841 **Phase**: NA **Status**: COMPLETED **Enrollment**: 110 **Completion**: 2019-12-04
**Zakay-Rones et al., 1995** | J Altern Complement Med | Rct Zakay-Rones Z, Varsano N, ... Mumcuoglu M. Inhibition of several strains of influenza virus in vitro and reduction of symptoms by an elderberry extract (Sambucus nigra L.) during …
Frequently asked questions
What is elderberry and what is it used for?
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a botanical supplement primarily used to treat upper respiratory infections. Research generally suggests it can help reduce the duration and severity of cold and influenza symptoms when taken early in the illness.
Does elderberry work for colds and flu?
There is moderate evidence that elderberry supplementation effectively reduces the duration and severity of upper respiratory symptoms. Meta-analyses and randomized controlled trials indicate benefits for influenza A and B infections, as well as cold symptoms in specific populations like air travelers.
What is the effective dose of elderberry?
Specific dose ranges were not detailed in the provided research abstracts, although efficacy was noted in studies for influenza A and B. Consumers should consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosing advice, as specific amounts are not established in the current evidence summary.
Is elderberry safe to take?
While generally used for respiratory issues, caution is advised because raw elderberries can be toxic and must be properly prepared. FDA CAERS reports a small number of adverse events, such as headaches, so it is important to use processed supplements rather than raw berries.
Does elderberry have any drug interactions?
No drug interactions have been documented for elderberry in the provided evidence summary. However, you should always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure it is safe for your specific health profile.
Who should avoid taking elderberry?
Individuals should avoid consuming raw elderberries due to their potential toxicity. Pregnant individuals, those on medications, or people with specific health conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use, as the evidence summary does not provide specific safety data for these groups beyond general caution.