Elderberry, also known as elder and elder flower, is a type of flowering plant. There are several species of elder, but the European -- or black, elder-- is the type used in medicinal therapies, particularly its white flowers and berries.
This elderberry is a shrub or small tree mostly found in Europe, Africa, certain areas of Asia and is now widespread the United States.
Elderberry uses
In traditional folk medicine, elder berries have been used for their antiperspirant, properties and to facilitate evacuation of the bowels and bladder. The flowers were believed to have a variety of purposes, from controlling perspiration to treating coughs, stimulating the circulation system, and for the treatment of topical inflammation.
There is indirect evidence that elderberry has medicinal potential for these conditions:[3]
-
The flu (including swine flu)
-
HIV/AIDS
-
Enhancing the immune system
-
Pain relief
-
Chronic fatigue syndrome
-
Hay fever
-
Inflammation
-
Constipation
-
Cancer
-
Boosting urine output
-
Facilitating sweating
Forms
Elderberry lozenge
Forms of elderberry include dried, syrup, lozenge, capsule, and tincture.
Elderberry may work for:
-
Viruses (the flu, for example)
-
Sinus infection
-
Inflammation
There is not enough evidence to recommend elderberry for:
-
Hay fever
-
Constipation
-
Nerve pain
-
Chronic fatigue syndrome
-
Swine flu
-
HIV/AIDS
-
Cancer
Recommended dose
For treatment of influenza, take 1 tbsp (15mL) four times per day for three to five days. Elderberry lozenges contain 175mg of the active ingredient. It is recommended to take four times a day for two days.
To make elder tea, add 3g to 5g dried elder flower in 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes then strain.
For the treatment of the flu in children, administer 1 tbsp. (15mL) twice a day for three days. Talk to your pediatrician before giving a child any product contain elder.
Food-based sources
Elderberry jam
Elderberry contains iron, phosphorous, vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. Like other berries elderberries are used in jam, salad dressing, sauces, juice, wine, and beer. Dried berries are used in breakfast cereals, ice cream, and yogurt. The flower, while used less often, is used as an ingredient in alcoholic beverages and fritters.
Nutrition Facts
Elderberry nutrition lable
Elderberry is one of the healthiest foods out there for those watching their cholesterol levels. Elder contains nearly 27g of carbohydrates (fiber contains about 10g). One serving of elder has 0.96g of protein, 55.1mg of calcium, 2.32mg of iron, and 406mg potassium. Additionally, a single serving contains 870 IU vitamin A.
Important warning
Note that the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate supplements, including elderberry. Before using this supplement for medicinal or health purposes, talk with your healthcare provider. Always talk to your pediatrician before giving your child a vitamin, supplement, or herb -- especially for medicinal purposes.
Before elderberries can be consumed, they must be cooked. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "Raw berries contain a chemical similar to cyanide."[2]
Medication interactions
Talk to your doctor before taking elderberry with:
-
Medications that curb the immune system. Transplant patients should avoid elderberry.
-
Water pills (diuretics): Taking elder can increase your risk of becoming dehydrated since the berry also acts as a diuretic.
-
Chemotherapy drugs
-
Laxatives: Elderberry acts as a laxative. Taking a prescription or over-the-counter laxative could worsen your symptoms.
-
Diabetes medication: Elderberry increases the chances of developing hypoglycemia or low blood sugar if taken with medications used for controlling diabetes.
-
Asthma medication (particularly Theophylline): Elder may interfere with the ability of your asthma medications working properly.
Safety Concerns
-
Limit use of elderberry juice extract to a maximum of five days.
-
Do not consume raw or under-ripe elderberry fruit. It may cause vomiting, nausea and major diarrhea.[1]
-
Do not consume elderberry during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.[1]
- Elderberry may boost the immune system and, thus, aggravate symptoms of autoimmune diseases (multiple sclerosis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, for example).
Considerations
-
Although we don't sell elderberry, you can compare quality, brands, and prices from a variety of manufacturers here at PricePlow.
-
"Natural" doesn't always mean safe. Play it smart. Follow directions and consult a qualified healthcare professional for more information before using natural products, including elderberry.
References
- WebMD; "Elderberry"
- Ehrlich, SD; University of Maryland Medical Center; "Elderberry;" 2012
- Charlebois D.; Issues in new crops and new uses; ASHS Press; "Elderberry as a Medicinal Plant;" 2007
Elderberry News on PricePlow
-
Oct 26, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry Original Formula Throat Lozenge was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Oct 17, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Immune Gummies has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 26, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Mary Ruth's Extra Strength Organic Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 22, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Mary Ruth's Toddler Elderberry Liquid Drops was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 22, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Mary Ruth's Elderberry Chewable Tablets was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 22, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Mary Ruth's Kids Elderberry Liquid Drops, Organic was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 22, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Mary Ruth's Toddlers Elderberry Liquid Drops, Organic was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Vitamins for Kids -
Sep 21, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Mary Ruth's Elderberry Liquid Drops, Organic was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 18, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Zand Zumka Cough & Cold was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Cough Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 18, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Zand Elderberry C was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Vitamin C -
Sep 14, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry Cough Relief was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Cough Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 13, 2024 ![]()
Product News
The Vitamin Shoppe Elderberry Gummies was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 12, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Alpha CF Flu Relief Syrup has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 12, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry Advanced Immune has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 12, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Sleep & Immune Gummies has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Sep 11, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Immune Gummy for KIDS was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Vitamins for Kids -
Sep 02, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Alpha CF Flu Relief Syrup was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Aug 25, 2024 ![]()
Product News
PLNT Organic Elderberry Gummies was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Aug 17, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Force Factor Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Aug 10, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Jul 04, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Elderberry Zinc Lozenges has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Zinc -
Jun 16, 2024 ![]()
Product News
New Chapter kids Elderberry Syrup + Honey was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Vitamins for Kids -
Jun 15, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry Advanced Immune has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Jun 15, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry Kids Advanced Immune Support has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Jun 15, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry Throat Relief was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Jun 09, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Zero Sugar Immune Gummy was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Jun 09, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Elderberry NightTime Syrup has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Apr 30, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Traditional Immune Syrup was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Apr 22, 2024 ![]()
Product News
New Chapter Elderberry Force has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Apr 03, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Natural Factors Black Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Apr 03, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Natural Factors Sambucus Black Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Apr 02, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Natrol Elderberry - Immune Health was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Feb 25, 2024 ![]()
Product News
The Vitamin Shoppe Sambucus Black Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Feb 24, 2024 ![]()
Product News
The Vitamin Shoppe Elderberry Zinc Vitamin C Soft Chews was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Vitamin C, Zinc -
Feb 24, 2024 ![]()
Product News
The Vitamin Shoppe Elderberry plus Vitamin C & Zinc was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Vitamin C, Zinc -
Feb 24, 2024 ![]()
Product News
The Vitamin Shoppe Sambucus Elderberry with Vitamin C & Zinc was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Vitamin C, Zinc -
Feb 24, 2024 ![]()
Product News
The Vitamin Shoppe Children's Black Elderberry Extract was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Feb 15, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Elderberry Zinc Lozenges has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Zinc -
Jan 30, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nutricost Black Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Jan 29, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Trace Minerals Elderberry Immunity Powder was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Jan 23, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Carlson Black Elderberry Gummies was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements, Vitamin C, Zinc -
Jan 17, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Elderberry Immune Support for Kids has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Jan 17, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Sleep & Immune Gummies has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Jan 15, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Trace Minerals Elderberry + Ionic Zinc was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Zinc -
Jan 11, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Immune Gummies has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Jan 11, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nutricost Elderberry (for Kids) was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Jan 11, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nutricost Elderberry has new variations: Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Jan 08, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Nutricost Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Jan 08, 2024 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry Advanced Syrup for Kids was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Dec 27, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Motiv8 Elderberry Gummies with Vitamin C & Zinc was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements, Vitamin C, Zinc -
Dec 10, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Cheap Supplements Elderberry Vitamin C Gummies was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements, Vitamin C -
Dec 09, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Immune Gummies was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Aug 01, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Nature's Way Sambucus Elderberry Zinc Lozenges was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements, Zinc -
May 16, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Jarrow Formulas Highly Concentrated Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
May 14, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry 5-In-1 Intense Defense was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
May 14, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Homeopathics, Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
May 14, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Sambucol Black Elderberry Kids Gummies was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Apr 20, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Swanson Sambucus Elderberry Extract was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Apr 16, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Olly Extra Strength Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements -
Mar 07, 2023 ![]()
YouTube Video
Elan Sudberg: Alkemist Labs Tests Your Shrooms and Botanicals (PricePlow Podcast 086) -
Mar 03, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Swanson Elderberry & Echinacea was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Echinacea, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Mar 03, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Swanson Elderberry was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Mar 03, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Swanson Elderberry Extract Syrup was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Immune System Supplements -
Mar 03, 2023 ![]()
Product News
Swanson Elderberry with Zinc & Vitamin C was created.
Categories: Cold and Flu Remedies, Elderberry, Gummy Supplements, Immune System Supplements, Vitamin C, Zinc
Sign up for future Elderberry news!
Click the button below to sign up for future Elderberry news, deals, coupons, and reviews!
Elderberry Reviews & Videos
Subscribe for more Elderberry news and alerts!
Subscribe to PricePlow on YouTube, follow PricePlow on Instagram or click the button below to sign up for our latest Elderberry news and reviews!
