Vegetarian Black Elderberry

Posted by: Sina Ghaboussi | Jul 22, 2010

Black elderberry, also known as elderberry, European elder, elder and Sambucus nigra, is a large shrub that can grow up to 30 feet and is native to Europe, Africa and parts of Asia. It has been used for centuries to treat wounds and for respiratory illnesses such as colds and flu.

Black elderberry contains flavonoids which have antioxidant properties and can help support the immune system. Some evidence suggests chemicals in elder may help reduce swelling in mucous membranes. One study suggested that using a standardized elderberry extract, combined with vitamin C, could shorten the duration of flu by 3 days. Another study with black elderberry mixed with other herbs and combined with an antibiotic and decongestant significantly improved the symptoms for sinusitis over those who took antibiotic and decongestant alone.

Vegetarian black elderberry is available as a liquid, syrup, tincture, capsules, and lozenges. Elderberry should be taken as directed by the manufacturer. It is also important to use a trusted preparation of elder because raw, unripe fruit or raw berries—as well as the leaves, seeds, and bark—of the plant contain a chemical related to cyanide, which is poisonous.

There are few side effects associated with black elderberry when it is taken appropriately for short periods of time (maximum of 5 days). Elderberry or any product containing elder, should not be given to a child without first talking to your pediatrician. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should not take elder. Those adults who should avoid black elderberry are diabetics, people using diuretics (or water pills), laxatives, or those currently on immunosuppressant or undergoing chemotherapy.

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Article Source:
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/elderberry-002880.htm

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