Evidence supporting the use of: Elderberry
For the health condition: Pertussis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly for treating colds, influenza, and respiratory ailments. Historical records from European folk medicine indicate that elderberry preparations (such as syrups and teas) were used to soothe coughs and support recovery from various respiratory infections. However, specific documentation of elderberry being used for pertussis (whooping cough) is limited. Most references to elderberry's use in pertussis are anecdotal or based on its general application for coughs and bronchial irritation, rather than on any targeted effect against Bordetella pertussis, the bacterium that causes whooping cough.

From a scientific perspective, elderberry has demonstrated some antiviral and immunomodulatory properties in vitro and in clinical studies, mostly related to influenza and common cold viruses. There is, however, no clinical or laboratory evidence to suggest that elderberry is effective for treating or preventing pertussis, a bacterial infection. Thus, while its use for pertussis can be justified on the basis of tradition—mainly as a supportive remedy for cough symptoms—the quality and specificity of evidence is very low. Modern medical management of pertussis relies on antibiotics and supportive care.

In summary, elderberry's use for pertussis is supported primarily by traditional herbal practices focused on general respiratory health, not by scientific validation or robust historical documentation specific to whooping cough.

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