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

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Synopsis

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

Elder flower (Sambucus nigra) has a long history of traditional use in Europe and other parts of the world for the prevention and treatment of colds and flu. Elder flower was commonly administered as a tea or syrup to help reduce fever, promote sweating, and alleviate symptoms of respiratory infections. The traditional rationale is based on its purported diaphoretic effects (inducing sweating), which was thought to help "break" a fever and support the body's response to infection.

Scientific research on elder flower (as opposed to elder berry, which has more evidence) is limited. Some laboratory studies suggest elder flower may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but there is a lack of robust clinical trials specifically evaluating elder flower for cold prevention or treatment. The evidence for its effectiveness is therefore primarily based on traditional use, historical texts, and anecdotal reports rather than modern scientific validation. Most clinical research in recent years has focused on elderberry extract, which is derived from the fruit rather than the flower, and these results cannot be directly applied to elder flower.

In summary, the use of elder flower for the prevention of colds is rooted in traditional herbal medicine, supported by historical usage rather than strong scientific evidence. The overall evidence rating for its efficacy in this context is low (2/5).

More about Elder
More about Colds (prevention)

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bermuda grass
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black cumin
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blackboard tree
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elderberry
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forsythia
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Products containing Elder

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