Common Names: elderberry, black elderberry, European elder, common elder

Scientific Name: Sambucus nigra

Background

• Elderberry is a dark purple fruit that grows on the European black elder tree, which can be found in Europe, North America, parts of Asia, and North Africa.

• Traditionally, elderberries have been used in herbal medicine to help manage symptoms of colds and the flu.

• Nowadays, elderberry is marketed as a dietary supplement for respiratory illness. Although promoted for various other concerns, including COVID-19, scientific support is lacking.

How Much Do We Know?

• Only a few studies have looked into the use of elderberry for treating colds, flu, and related illnesses, and there is limited data on its other health uses.

What Have We Learned?

• Early findings suggest elderberry might reduce symptoms of upper respiratory conditions such as the flu or common cold.

• U.S. federal agencies have taken action against companies making unsupported claims that elderberry prevents or treats COVID-19.

• Overall, there's not enough research to confirm elderberry’s effectiveness for health issues beyond respiratory infections.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• Consuming raw or unripe berries, or other parts of the elder plant like leaves and stems, can be toxic due to compounds that release cyanide. Cooking the berries removes these harmful substances.

• It’s important to consult your doctor before using elderberry or other herbal remedies, especially if you’re taking medication, as these can interact.

• Not much is known about the safety of elderberry use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Keep in Mind

• Elderberry should not be relied upon for preventing or treating COVID-19, as evidence is inconclusive.

• Talk to your healthcare provider about any alternative treatments you’re considering to make informed choices together.

• Herbal products are regulated differently based on their ingredients, usage, and administration method. Dietary supplements, including elderberry, are not reviewed by the FDA before reaching consumers unless safety concerns arise.

• Companies that produce and sell supplements are responsible for their safety and proper labeling in accordance with regulations.

For More Information

• Tips for using supplements wisely

• Understanding how supplements and medications may interact

• How to interpret scientific journal articles

NCCIH Clearinghouse

The NCCIH Clearinghouse provides reliable information on complementary and integrative health practices. It offers access to publications and scientific resources but does not offer medical advice or referrals.

Toll-free in the U.S.: 1-888-644-6226

Telecommunications relay (TRS): 7-1-1

PubMed®

This service from the National Library of Medicine lets users find abstracts and details from a wide range of scientific and medical journals.

Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), National Institutes of Health (NIH)

ODS works to expand public understanding of dietary supplements through research and education. It provides informational materials about various supplement ingredients and their health effects.

Key References

• Adams KK, Baker WL, Sobieraj DM. Myth busters: dietary supplements and COVID-19. Annals of Pharmacotherapy. 2020;54(8):820-826.

• Asgary S, Pouramini A. The pros and cons of using elderberry (Sambucus nigra) for prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Advanced Biomedical Research. 2022;11:96.

• Brendler T, Al-Harrasi A, Bauer R, et al. Botanical drugs and supplements affecting the immune response in the time of COVID-19: implications for research and clinical practice. Phytotherapy Research. 2021;35(6):3013-3031.

• Crawford C, Brown LL, Costello RB, et al. Immune supplements under the magnifying glass: an expert panel develops priorities and evidence-based recommendations for future research regarding dietary supplements. Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine. 2023;29(4):261-267.

• Harnett J, Oakes K, Carè J, et al. The effects of Sambucus nigra berry on acute respiratory viral infections: a rapid review of clinical studies. Advances in Integrative Medicine. 2020;7(4):240-246.

• Hawkins J, Baker C, Cherry L, et al. Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2019;42:361-365.

• Saifulazmi NF, Rohani ER, Harun S, et al. A review with updated perspectives on the antiviral potentials of traditional medicinal plants and their prospects in antiviral therapy. Life (Basel). 2022;12(8):1287.

• Sandu-Bălan Tăbăcariu A, Ifrim I-L, Patriciu O-I, et al. Walnut by-products and elderberry extracts—sustainable alternatives for human and plant health. Molecules. 2024;29(2):498.

This material is in the public domain and may be freely copied. It is meant for informational use only and not as a substitute for professional medical advice or guidance. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Mention of any products, practices, or services does not imply endorsement.