Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

European Elder (Sambucus nigra) has a long history of traditional use in European herbal medicine, particularly for treating colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. The berries and flowers of the plant have been used for centuries in remedies such as teas, syrups, and tinctures, often as alternatives to conventional treatments before antibiotics were available. The traditional use centers on elder’s purported ability to reduce symptoms and duration of infections, likely due to its content of flavonoids and other phenolic compounds with possible antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Modern scientific research into European Elder’s antimicrobial effects is limited and not robust enough to support its use as a direct alternative to antibiotics. Some in vitro studies have demonstrated mild antibacterial activity against certain pathogens and suggested that elderberry extracts may inhibit the replication of some viruses, such as influenza. However, these findings are preliminary, mostly laboratory-based, and have not been substantiated by strong clinical trials in humans for bacterial infections.

Therefore, the use of European Elder as an "alternative to antibiotics" is justified mainly by traditional practice rather than by compelling scientific evidence. It may provide some symptomatic relief for viral infections, but should not be considered a replacement for antibiotics in cases of serious or confirmed bacterial infections.

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