There’s no doubt that berries are chock full of nutritional benefits. From the blueberry with its rich source of anthyocyanins to the high vitamin C content of strawberries, berries are a great choice for any meal or snack. One berry that may be less familiar, but is being increasingly recognized for its health properties is the elderberry. Commonly used in jams, jellies, and wines, the elderberry is an underappreciated nutrient superstar. What are the health benefits of the elderberry?
Health Benefits of Elderberry: Anti-viral Properties
One of the most important health benefits of the elderberry stems from its anti-viral capabilities. These richly colored berries are a good source of flavonoids including quercetin and the anthocyanins. It appears these flavonoids have significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can activate immune cells that help the body to fight off viruses. The elderberry fruit is also a source of components known as lectins which have been shown in the laboratory to stop replication of ten different strains of the flu virus.
Health Benefits of Elderberry: Can It Fight the Flu?
In one European study, people who were given Sambucol, a patented Elderberry extract, showed a greater antibody response to the influenza virus than those who didn’t receive it. The study also showed that elderberry extract stimulated the immune system to produce infection and disease fighting proteins. The researchers hope this could help in the treatment of other disease including AIDS and cancer, although more studies are needed.
Several small studies in humans have demonstrated the benefits of elderberry extract in fighting the influenza virus. These studies showed that giving elderberry extract shortened the course of the flu significantly with up to ninety percent of the people experiencing almost complete recovery within three days. More importantly, the symptoms were eased without serious side effects. It’s believed that elderberry extract inhibits an enzyme known as neuraminidase, a protein that promotes the spread of the flu virus within the body. Keep in mind that these studies were done with elderly extract which would have a higher concentration of the active components than could be obtained by simply eating the berries.
Health Benefits of Elderberry: Lowers Cholesterol?
Another health benefit of the elderberry may be its effect on cholesterol levels. A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that an elderberry extract modestly, but significantly, lowered cholesterol levels. This effect is believed to be due to the presence of cynidine glucosides found in the elderberry fruit.
The Bottom Line?
Elderberry extract in the form of Sambucol appears to have activity against some strains of influenza virus. The benefits of elderberry on cholesterol levels aren’t as compelling since studies have been very limited. Be cautious when eating elderberries. The unripe fruit, bark, leaves, and stems may contain cyanide which is poisonous. Never eat the green parts of the Elderberry plant. Keep in mind that the anti-viral and anti-flu effects were seen with Sambucol, the elderberry extract, which would be safest form to use for influenza. Always purchase the extract from a reputable source.
