Last update
6/16/2026
Reviewed By
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Likely Ineffective
Based on 1 Research
4
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 1 Review
7.7
Supplement Facts
Serving Size:
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Top Medical Research Studies
4
Systematic review; elderberry efficacy uncertain but safe
A systematic review examined whether elderberry can prevent or treat viral respiratory infections, including the common cold and flu. Researchers screened nearly 1,200 studies and analyzed five randomized trials to assess both benefits and safety concerns.
The findings suggest elderberry may not prevent colds from developing, but it might slightly reduce how long a cold lasts and how severe symptoms become—though the evidence remains uncertain. For influenza, elderberry showed potential in reducing duration, and one study found an elderberry product had fewer complications compared to the antiviral oseltamivir.
Importantly, the review found no evidence that elderberry overstimulates the immune system or triggers a dangerous "cytokine storm." While elderberry did affect some inflammatory markers in lab tests, this effect appeared to weaken over time. Overall, elderberry appears safe for treating respiratory illness, but more recent studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.
The findings suggest elderberry may not prevent colds from developing, but it might slightly reduce how long a cold lasts and how severe symptoms become—though the evidence remains uncertain. For influenza, elderberry showed potential in reducing duration, and one study found an elderberry product had fewer complications compared to the antiviral oseltamivir.
Importantly, the review found no evidence that elderberry overstimulates the immune system or triggers a dangerous "cytokine storm." While elderberry did affect some inflammatory markers in lab tests, this effect appeared to weaken over time. Overall, elderberry appears safe for treating respiratory illness, but more recent studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
0
Rich in antioxidants
4 people found this helpful
This product is fantastic due to its high antioxidant content. Elderberry contains compounds that support inflammation response and boost the immune system. It may also assist in weight loss. I will continue to use it regularly for its benefits against the common cold.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Likely Ineffective
Based on 1 Research
4
- All Researches
4
Systematic review; elderberry efficacy uncertain but safe
A systematic review examined whether elderberry can prevent or treat viral respiratory infections, including the common cold and flu. Researchers screened nearly 1,200 studies and analyzed five randomized trials to assess both benefits and safety concerns.
The findings suggest elderberry may not prevent colds from developing, but it might slightly reduce how long a cold lasts and how severe symptoms become—though the evidence remains uncertain. For influenza, elderberry showed potential in reducing duration, and one study found an elderberry product had fewer complications compared to the antiviral oseltamivir.
Importantly, the review found no evidence that elderberry overstimulates the immune system or triggers a dangerous "cytokine storm." While elderberry did affect some inflammatory markers in lab tests, this effect appeared to weaken over time. Overall, elderberry appears safe for treating respiratory illness, but more recent studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.
The findings suggest elderberry may not prevent colds from developing, but it might slightly reduce how long a cold lasts and how severe symptoms become—though the evidence remains uncertain. For influenza, elderberry showed potential in reducing duration, and one study found an elderberry product had fewer complications compared to the antiviral oseltamivir.
Importantly, the review found no evidence that elderberry overstimulates the immune system or triggers a dangerous "cytokine storm." While elderberry did affect some inflammatory markers in lab tests, this effect appeared to weaken over time. Overall, elderberry appears safe for treating respiratory illness, but more recent studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 1 Review
7.7
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
0
Rich in antioxidants
4 people found this helpful
This product is fantastic due to its high antioxidant content. Elderberry contains compounds that support inflammation response and boost the immune system. It may also assist in weight loss. I will continue to use it regularly for its benefits against the common cold.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
References
- Wieland LS, Piechotta V, Feinberg T, Ludeman E, Hutton B, et al. Elderberry for prevention and treatment of viral respiratory illnesses: a systematic review. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2021;21:112. 10.1186/s12906-021-03283-5
