The black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) plant has been used in traditional medicine for many years and is known for its therapeutic benefits.1 Among its many uses, it is most well-known for its use in treating colds and influenza-like illnesses.1
How does it work?
Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extracts have demonstrated antiviral properties.2,3 Research suggests that this is due to the extracts having a range of different compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins – which all play a role in the extract’s ability to fight off viruses.2,3
What does the science say?
1) Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract has antiviral properties
Extracts from the black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) plant have shown antiviral effects on viruses that affect the respiratory system (e.g. certain strains of influenza viruses).1 In one study published in the Journal of Food and Agricultural Immunology, researchers found that black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract can inhibit a modified version of the vaccinia virus (MVA) from entering and replicating in human cells.2 The study reported a 95.3% reduction in the ability of MVA to infect healthy cells after 10 minutes of exposure.2 A similar effect was also seen when the researchers repeated the experiment using a lower concentration of black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract and with shorter contact times.2
Antiviral Properties of Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) Fruit Extract
2) Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract is fast-acting
Another study evaluated how well black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract works at treating influenza infections.3 One group was treated using the active extract, while the other was treated using an inactive placebo.3 Subjects measured their symptoms using a visual analogue scale (VAS).3
Results showed that those treated with the black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract saw greater improvements 3-4 days after treatment started. This is in contrast to the placebo group, which reached the same level of improvement after 7-8 days.3 This suggests that black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract has an early onset of efficacy.
Improvement in Symptom Scores Throughout the Study
3) Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract reduces common cold duration and symptoms
In another study, researchers investigated how effective black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract is at treating colds.4 Participants were split into two groups and treated with either the black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract or an inactive placebo, and the severity of their symptoms and duration of cold were recorded throughout the study.4
Results showed that the group treated with black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract had a lower average number of cold episode days.4 In addition to this, the symptom score of the group treated with the extract was significantly lower than the placebo group.4 Overall, this suggests that treatment with black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract can help reduce cold duration and symptom severity.
Improvements in the Number of Days with A Cold and Symptom Scores
When you are feeling under the weather and the cold has caught up with you, take Hedervy. With its blend of natural plant extracts from the black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit and common ivy (Hedera helix) leaf, Hedervy can help provide relief. Specially formulated to relieve runny nose, nasal congestion, coughs, sore throat, and reduce phlegm, Hedervy offers a hand in supporting respiratory health. Choose Hedervy to help you feel better when you need it most!
The content here is for information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
- Mahboubi M. Adv Tradit Med. 2021;21(3):405–14.
- Schön C, et al. Food Agric Immunol.2021;32(1):650–62.
- Zakay-Rones Z, et al. Int J Med Res.2004;23:132-140.
- Tiralongo E, et al. Nutrients. 2016;8(4):182.