Researchers examined five clinical studies involving 936 adults to evaluate elderberry's effects on acute respiratory infections. When taken within 48 hours of symptom onset, elderberry extract or lozenges showed promise in reducing common cold and flu symptoms—including fever, headache, and nasal congestion. Most adults experienced roughly 50% symptom reduction within 2-4 days of treatment.
Elderberry appears particularly effective for influenza-related symptoms, though evidence on cough relief remains mixed. The treatment was well-tolerated with minimal side effects and no serious adverse events reported. However, there's currently insufficient evidence for use in pregnant or lactating women, and no support for COVID-19 treatment or prevention.
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Most Useful Reviews
0
No flu benefits experienced
6 people found this helpful
Ineffective against flu (for me). I recently tried elderberry capsules after my daughter swore by the syrup. Despite my generally healthy immune history, I contracted the worst flu ever while taking it daily. I experienced severe flu symptoms including headaches for weeks. Despite my efforts with this supplement, I found it unhelpful for preventing or easing my flu experience.
Researchers examined five clinical studies involving 936 adults to evaluate elderberry's effects on acute respiratory infections. When taken within 48 hours of symptom onset, elderberry extract or lozenges showed promise in reducing common cold and flu symptoms—including fever, headache, and nasal congestion. Most adults experienced roughly 50% symptom reduction within 2-4 days of treatment.
Elderberry appears particularly effective for influenza-related symptoms, though evidence on cough relief remains mixed. The treatment was well-tolerated with minimal side effects and no serious adverse events reported. However, there's currently insufficient evidence for use in pregnant or lactating women, and no support for COVID-19 treatment or prevention.
Read More
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0
No flu benefits experienced
6 people found this helpful
Ineffective against flu (for me). I recently tried elderberry capsules after my daughter swore by the syrup. Despite my generally healthy immune history, I contracted the worst flu ever while taking it daily. I experienced severe flu symptoms including headaches for weeks. Despite my efforts with this supplement, I found it unhelpful for preventing or easing my flu experience.
Read More
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References
Harnett J, Oakes K, Carè J, Leach M, Brown D, et al. The effects of berry on acute respiratory viral infections: A rapid review of clinical studies. Adv Integr Med. 2020;7:240. 10.1016/j.aimed.2020.08.001