Respiratory: May not prevent respiratory viral illness but may help in treatment because it slows viral replication (some claim this is as good as Tamiflu), and reportedly shortens the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms (esp. flu A, B and H1N1, swine flu), sinus pain, hay fever, tonsillitis, ear infections, allergies, and asthma. Reputed to be one of the better antiviral herbs 

Cardiovascular: Heart disease. May decrease blood pressure

Gastrointestinal: Constipation, weight loss, gum inflammation and disease

Musculoskeletal: Back and leg pain (sciatica); rheumatism, muscle pain, inflammation

Neurologic: Nerve pain (neuralgia, sciatica); headaches, chronic fatigue syndrome, epilepsy, stress

Glucose: Helps to decrease blood sugar

Cholesterol: May help decrease cholesterol

Immunity: Helps boost the immune system

Cancer: Support may inhibit tumor growth

Infectious Disease: HIV/AIDS support; HSV

Other: Increases urine flow/kidney problems, increases sweating, mild diuretic, and fever, may help with weight loss.

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SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, weakness, dizziness, numbness

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Autoimmune disease, immunosuppressants, including steroids. Unripe and uncooked berries can cause stomach problems. Raw or undercooked berries and other parts of the elderberry plant can be poisonous.

FORMS: Oils, teas, tablets, extract, gummies, capsules, tincture, wine, jelly, jam, wine, ointment, astringent, sprays, infusion, powder. German Commission E recommends elderflower.

Recommended Brands

Many elderberry products are sold over the counter in retail stores and pharmacies, such as Sambucol, and they tend to sell out quickly during flu season.

GNC Elderberry Fruit 550 mg 

Nature’s Way® Sambucus Standardized Elderberry (50 mg extract) — available in many retail grocery stores and pharmacies

New Chapter® Elderberry Force Capsules — order through Fullscript link 

365® (Whole Foods) 

Liquid Elderberry 4 oz

Nature’s Answer® Sambucus 

Sambucol® Black Elderberry Syrup — available in many retail grocery stores and pharmacies Sambucol® Black Elderberry Effervescent Tablets — available in many retail stores and pharmacies 

Garden of Life® Mykind Organics Elderberry Immune Syrup (with echinacea, zinc, and vitamin C) — order through Fullscript link

Independent labs report inconsistent levels of medicinal compounds in some commercially available elderberry products. Do not eat raw elderberries; they may cause side effects and can be toxic.

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Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts and application methods, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Elderberry products vary widely in formulation, including syrups, capsules, lozenges, gummies, and liquid extracts. Traditional and consumer use often involves short‑term use at the onset of symptoms, but product strengths differ significantly.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to herbal dosing on the Epocrates website.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

Elderberry has been used traditionally for seasonal wellness, immune support, and comfort during cold and flu season. Traditional practices describe a variety of forms, including teas, syrups, and extracts. These uses are based on historical and consumer experience rather than strong clinical evidence.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.