Synopsis

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

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) has a long history of use in traditional medicine for respiratory ailments, including coughs. Folk remedies in Europe and North America have utilized elderberry syrups and teas to soothe symptoms of colds, influenza, and coughs, including spastic (or dry, hacking) coughs. The primary rationale in traditional medicine is that elderberry preparations are thought to reduce inflammation and loosen mucus, thereby alleviating cough and associated discomfort.

From a scientific perspective, research on elderberry’s effect on cough itself is limited and indirect. Most modern studies focus on its antiviral activity, particularly regarding influenza and the common cold. Some clinical trials suggest elderberry extract can reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms, which sometimes include cough. For example, a 2016 meta-analysis (Tiralongo et al., 2016) found elderberry supplementation shortened the duration of upper respiratory symptoms. However, these studies do not isolate spastic cough as a specific endpoint.

The active compounds in elderberry, such as flavonoids and anthocyanins, may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which could theoretically help reduce cough reflex sensitivity. Despite these potential mechanisms, there is insufficient direct clinical evidence for elderberry’s efficacy specifically in treating spastic cough.

In summary, elderberry’s use for spastic cough is primarily traditional, with limited scientific evidence for its direct effectiveness in this specific indication.

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