Evidence supporting the use of: Elderberry (unspecified)
For the health condition: Colds (decongestant)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Elderberry (typically referring to Sambucus nigra) has a long history of traditional use for supporting respiratory health and treating symptoms of the common cold, including congestion. More recently, several clinical studies have investigated its efficacy. A few small randomized controlled trials suggest that elderberry extract may reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms, possibly due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, such as flavonoids and anthocyanins. For example, a 2016 meta-analysis (Hawkins et al., 2019, Complementary Therapies in Medicine) found that elderberry supplementation was associated with a significant reduction in upper respiratory symptoms. However, the number of high-quality studies is limited, sample sizes have been small, and methodologies vary, leading to a moderate to low strength of evidence. Regarding its function as a decongestant specifically, the mechanism is not fully established; benefits are likely due to general immune support and possible anti-viral activity rather than direct decongestant effects. In summary, elderberry is used both traditionally and with some scientific support for cold symptom relief, but the overall evidence is modest and more rigorous research is needed to confirm efficacy, especially as a decongestant.

More about Elderberry (unspecified)
More about Colds (decongestant)

Products containing Elderberry (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.