Evidence supporting the use of: Berry
For the health condition: Colds (prevention)

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Synopsis

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

Berries—most notably elderberry (Sambucus nigra)—have a long history of traditional use for the prevention and treatment of colds and influenza-like illnesses. Scientific research on elderberry has provided some evidence supporting its role in reducing the duration and severity of cold symptoms. Several small randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have found that elderberry extract may reduce the length and severity of upper respiratory symptoms when taken at the onset of illness. For example, one meta-analysis published in 2019 in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine concluded that elderberry supplementation significantly reduced upper respiratory symptoms compared to placebo. The proposed mechanisms include elderberry’s flavonoids, which may have antiviral and immune-modulatory effects.

However, evidence for other berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries) is limited and largely based on their general antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties rather than direct clinical studies for cold prevention. Overall, while traditional use is strong, and there is some scientific support (especially for elderberry), the body of clinical evidence is moderate in quality and limited in scope. Larger, more rigorous trials are needed to confirm efficacy and identify optimal dosing. Thus, the evidence rating is 2 out of 5, reflecting modest but not conclusive scientific support, primarily for elderberry rather than berries in general.

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Other ingredients used for Colds (prevention)

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bael
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Baphicacanthus cusia
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Bassia scoparia
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bee products
bermuda grass
berry
beta-glucan
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Bidens pilosa
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bishop\'s weed
bitter grass
black cumin
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black galingale
black nightshade
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black salt
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black tea
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blackboard tree
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dragonhead
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Elder
elderberry
essential oil blend
eucalyptus
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ferula assafoetida
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forsythia
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fungus
galactooligosaccharides
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Glechoma hederacea
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Products containing berry

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