You can buy dried berries online and in health food stores. With elderberrys anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it makes sense that it can help treat sinus issues and diseases related to respiratory health. Aside from lectins, elderberry contains a compound known as cyanogenic glycosides that may also cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.This toxin can also be found naturally in almonds and apricot seeds. The berries are credited for many feats including, but not limited to: Now, lets see what the research says about using elderberry for thyroid support. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination. Elderberry (Sambucus species). But, when dealing with autoimmune diseases, activating the immune system further would be counterproductive. Ripe, cooked elderberry fruit is considered safe to eat in moderation. Also, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, do not take elderberry in any form. Although not all side effects are known, elderberry is thought to be possibly safe when taken as directed for a short period of time. Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have an autoimmune disease such as: Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. These little fruits may also help you combat the common cold. However, there is some conflicting evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies to suggest that excessive flavonoid intake can interfere with certain aspects of thyroid hormone synthesis. Unfortunately, however, there are currently no studies evaluating elderberry itself forconstipation relief, so more research is still needed. Barak V, Halperin T, Kalickman I. Since there is no recommended dosage, follow the instructions on the product label or ask your provider how much you should use. Elderberry is a berry from a European or Black elder tree. Nick Blackmer is a librarian, fact-checker, and researcher with more than 20 years experience in consumer-oriented health and wellness content. Stress. This is called a medicine interaction. Phytother Res 2012;26(11):1606-13. Even ripe berries can contain trace amounts, so elderberries must be cooked before you eat them. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. This includes: There is no standard recommendation for dosing elderberry. Its a deciduoustree growing up to 32 feet tall with cream-white flowers and blue-blackberries. People using this herb from 10 days before travel until four to five days after arrival overseas experienced, on average, a two-day shorter duration of their colds as well as a noticeable reduction in cold symptoms. If you make your own syrup, rather than buying it in a health food or grocery store, you can safely store it in the refrigerator for three months. Discontinue use and contact your physician if you experience . Elderberries have long been cultivated for food and to make natural medicines. Plant J 1997;12:1251-60. It may help reduce the length of a cold or the flu. In 2021, the USP held a forum to discuss the need for standards in developing elderberry products. A 2016 study published in Nutrients showed that elderberry supplementation was able to reduce cold duration and symptoms in people using air travel. There isn't enough reliable information to know if it is safe to use for longer than 12 weeks. However, the U.S. National Library of Medicine highlights a February 2019 meta-analysis of controlled, randomized clinical trials on elderberry use for cold and flu symptoms. However, here are a few key points to keep in mind: Unripe and uncooked elderberries are toxic and may nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Consuming it uncooked may cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Effects of elderberry juice on fasting and postprandial serum lipids and low-density lipoprotein oxidation in healthy volunteers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Poisoning from elderberry juice. Taking elderberry along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications. In vitro studies specifically indicate thatthe elderberry has somechemopreventive properties, which can help inhibit, delay or reverse cancer formation. Although commercial preparations are generally safe for consumption, eating raw elderberry may cause symptoms like nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Tea enthusiasts often brew the dried flowers into a sweet-tasting hot elderberry tea with benefits similar to the syrups or other preparations. This may lead to an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism, meaning insufficient thyroid production. 2021;21(1):112. doi:10.1186/s12906-021-03283-5, Macknin M, Wolski K, Negrey J, Mace S. Elderberry extract outpatient influenza treatment for emergency room patients ages 5 and above: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. In traditional or folk medicine, the elder plant was used as a laxative to relieve constipation. View abstract. In some clinical trials, adults took 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) of elderberry extract in syrup form four times daily for five days. Herbal supplements can strongly affect the body. 2023 DIVINITY NUTRA, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Additionally, research has shown vitamin C to be effective against the thyroid antibodies in Hashimotos disease. Lets take a look at the research to find an answer. Skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose. Using this antiviral herb is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, children, or those with autoimmune disorders. Thyroid health can be maximized when adding other vital nutrients, not just elderberry extract. Effect of an herbal mouth rinse in preventing periodontal inflammation in an experimental gingivitis model: a pilot study. It has deciduous leaves, white flowers (elderflowers) and berries that turn from green to red to black when ripe. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Several studies have found benefits to support the use of elderberry for flu symptoms as well. Dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed. Nutrients. One of the most well-studied elderberry supplement benefits is its powerful immune-boosting properties. If youre pregnant or breastfeeding, dont take this herb, as research is lacking on its effects on fetal health and development. If you have any other ongoing health concerns, talk with your health care provider before taking it as well. Is Lamb Healthy? The benefits seem to be greatest when started within 24 to 48. Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. Version: 1.01. Elderberry also figures prominently in Native American medicine. The syrups usually lack the additional vitamin C and zinc. View abstract. Elderberry may cause serious side effects. 2015;20;77:66-72. doi: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2015.04.001. Such a situation is called an autoimmune disease, and this is precisely what happens in Hashimotos thyroiditis. American elderberry ( Sambucus canadensis ) is more shrub-like and can grow up to 8 to 10 feet high, while European black elder ( Sambucus nigra) has the makings of a small tree and will reach 20 feet. Cyanogenic glycoside analysis in American elderberry, Advanced research on the antioxidant and health benefit of elderberry (, The effect of Sambucol, a black elderberry-based, natural product, on the production of human cytokines: I. Elderberry With Vitamin C and Zinc: Does It Work? Mynarczyk K, Walkowiak-Tomczak D, ysiak GP. During the fifth century B.C., Greek physicians and philosophers wrote of the elder tree's healing abilities. While people have been led to believe that elderberry can prevent COVID-19, no published research studies have evaluated the use of elderberry for COVID-19. Researchers found that both lipophilic and polar extracts of the berry lowered insulin resistance in rats with type 2 diabetes. Intense stress can also affect your period. The disease progressively shows many symptoms, such as fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and difficulty breathing. There is no safety data on the use of elderberry in children under 5 years of age. View abstract. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. JAMA 1984;251:2075. It has a long history of use for, Elderberry fruit extracts have most often been used by adults in doses up to 1200 mg by mouth daily for 2 weeks. Consult with a certified medical professional for a proper consultation. The berries contain chemical compounds called anthocyanidins, which have been foundto possessimmunostimulant properties. If you appreciate foods that are pleasing to your taste buds and that also seem to offer health benefits and practical uses, you're likely acquainted with black elderberry. Additionally,the American elder extract showed inhibition of ornithine decarboxylase, which is an enzyme marker related to the promotion stage of cancer formation. Cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers and liver and kidney function are not altered in postmenopausal women after ingesting an elderberry extract rich in anthocyanins for 12 weeks. Some researchers have suggested that the syrup shortens the duration of some illnesses and makes them less severe; however, the study findings have varied. This gives us reason to believe that elderberry and autoimmune disease have a relationship worth exploring. Try adding lemon, cinnamon or mint to give the flavor and health benefits a hearty boost. Elderberry is also promoted for treating high cholesterol, relieving pain, having anti-inflammatory properties, and more. BMC Complement Altern Med. Additionally, dietary supplements should not be used to treat a condition or disease. However, she is careful to take a scientific approach, and doesn't currently endorse the use of elderberry syrup for colds and flu. Both the elder flower and the berryhave traditionally been used totreat diabetes. Elderberries, raw. However, similar to elderberry syrup, tea often lacks the additional support that youd get from the inclusion of vitamin C and zinc. If you decide to make your own elderberry syrup or similar product, obtain instructions from a reputable source and follow the directions exactly. Some herbalists put black elder flower on the list ofmost effective herbs used for treating hay fever-like symptoms. It's used to make jams, syrups, and wine. Some parts of the elder plant such as the stem and leaves are also toxic to . It claimed that elderberry is only an immunomodulatory agent and balances immune response (activates it when required, and pacifies it when not required). If you enjoy handcrafting your own small-batch vintages, consider fermenting some elder wine. There is no data evaluating elderberry safety in people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. European folklore links elderberry consumption to increased strength and a longer lifespan. 2020;9(4):83. doi: 10.3390/biology9040083. Another study published in the Journal of International Medical Research referenced above suggests that when elderberry is used within the first 48 hours of the onset of signs of flu, it can shorten the duration of flu symptoms by anaverage of four days. However, some groups of people should avoid elderberry. For example, several forms are marketed for immune support, and they also contain vitamin C, zinc, vitamin A, or vitamin E. This is especially important with elderberry products. This is a safe and effective amount for general health and wellness, reducing inflammation, and supporting immunity. If we consider elderberry and autoimmune diseases outside the thyroid, elderberry has shown itself to be great for inflammation and immune support. Do not take elderberry without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications: medicine to prevent organ transplant rejection; medicine to treat psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders; medicine to treat ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease; or. There is no data on the use of elderberry for COVID-19, either to prevent it or to manage symptoms. European elder. Each subject took elderberry supplements during their respective study. What are the benefits of elderberry? Doctors prescribe diuretics when the body retains too much fluid, which is a common problem in older adults. Despite the many health benefits associated with this medicinal plant, there are several elderberry side effects to consider as well. Research actually shows that elderberry is a safe, efficient and cost-effectivetreatment for the common cold and flu. People with organ transplants should not takeelderberry. Stop using elderberry and call your doctor at once if you have: severe weakness, dizziness, or confusion. The shrub's stems, leaves and other parts are also off limits for the same reason. A 2019 study evaluated the role of natural antioxidants in preventing thyroid dysfunction and treating various disorders. For this reason, the government actually employed the use of elderberry to fight the flu during the 1995 Panama flu epidemic. A phase II trial of a transmucosal herbal patch for the treatment of gingivitis. One study published in theJournal of Medicinal Foodcompared theanticancer properties of European and American elderberry fruits. Its hard to believe in a one-size-fits-all remedy, but elderberries have lived up to their name as a superfruit over centuries of use. Elderberry is known for its digestive and immune system support, and can promote better skin health. J Nutr 2009;139:2266-71. Available at: https://www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/pp/ppack.jump?p_null=all&p_psn=121&p_type=all&p_sci=comm&p_x=px (Accessed 16 October 2009). Elderberrys high antioxidant capacity is the secret to its healing tendencies. In rare cases, they can completely block your periods. Is elderberry recommended to prevent COVID-19? Elderberry has made its wayinto cosmetic products, and for good reason. Elderberry and Thyroid: Is It Safe for Autoimmune Disease? If you have eaten an unknown berry and develop concerning symptoms, get immediate medical attention. Its most common use cases are for treating cold and flu symptoms and providing COVID relief. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here. There are also recipes for elderberry-based medications dating back toAncient Egypt. It was added to herbal mixtures to improve regularity. Sambucus nigrais the full scientific name of the most common variety used for medicinal purposes, as well as the species on which themajority of scientific research has been conducted. View abstract. If you seek a warm, healthy cup of tea after a long day of discomfort, elderberry tea can help. Elderberry may reduce the effectiveness of immune suppressants, which are common medications for people who have undergone organ transplant procedures. View abstract. View abstract. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Elderberry has not been proven to prevent COVID-19 Some have even relied on elderberry products to help ease the effects of cancer, depression and HIV/AIDS. Wondering where to buy elderberry and how to start adding it to your diet? One study evaluating elderberry products on the market found that many did not contain elderberry. In addition to black elderberry, there are several other varieties available as well. An evidence-based systematic review of elderberry and elderflower (Sambucus nigra) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. U.S. Department of Agriculture: FoodData Central. Anthocyanins are detected in human plasma after oral administration of an elderberry extract. Stay alert for signs or symptoms that could indicate a drug interaction. Still, there is some countervailing evidence to push back on the narrative that elderberry over-activates the immune system. severe weakness, dizziness, or confusion. Elderberry is often touted for use against viral infections such as the common cold or the flu. Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro. You can either buy tea bags or purchase dried berries or flowers and make a tea by combining one tablespoon of berries or flowers with eight ounces of water. It is marketed for several other conditions as well, but research is lacking. Another popular way to consume elderberries is to purchase an elderberry syrup. If we consider elderberry and autoimmune diseases outside the thyroid, elderberry has shown itself to be great for inflammation and immune support. Further research is needed. Side effects, in theory, can include cramping, bleeding, early. 2015;18(B):941-958. doi:10.1016/j.jff.2014.07.012. Poisoning from elderberry juice. Keep your supplements stored according to the instructions on the product label. Her experience ranges from counseling cardiac rehabilitation clients to managing the nutrition needs of complex surgical patients. Avula B, Katragunta K, Wang YH, et al. Other common names forSambucus nigraincludeblack elder, European elder, European elderberry and European black elderberry. It contains very high amounts of anthocyanins, flavonoids, dietary fiber, and vitamins. The 9 Best Vitamins and Supplements for Skin Health, 11 Popular Natural Remedies for the Common Cold, The 5 Best Supplements for IBS, According to a GI Dietitian, A review of the antiviral properties of black elder (, Elderberry for prevention and treatment of viral respiratory illnesses: a systematic review, Elderberry extract outpatient influenza treatment for emergency room patients ages 5 and above: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, Elderberry supplementation reduces cold duration and symptoms in air-travellers: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Check with your physician for additional information about side effects. A sinus infection is acondition in which the cavities around the nasal passages become inflamed, and this antiviral herb has promise as asinus infection remedy. Other uses not proven with research have included heart disease, gum disease, high cholesterol, obesity, or the common cold. Elderberry is not the same as American Elder, Elderflower, or Dwarf Elder, and these will not provide the same intended benefit as elderberry. Inflammatory cytokines. Researchers found that elderberry may reduce the duration and severity of symptoms related to colds and influenza, and there's no evidence that it overstimulates the immune system. Only take the amount recommended on the label. Today, black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is one of natures most effective solutions for ailments. No author. Elderberry is a type of plant that is cultivated for its medicinal properties and used to treat a variety of conditions. When possible, choose a supplement tested by a trusted third party, such as USP, ConsumerLab, or NSF. This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or more serious side effects if consumed in large quantities. Common side effects may include: nausea, vomiting; stomach cramps; Elderberry is marketed mostly for immune support. Ripe, cooked berries from most of theSambucusspeciesare edible. Elderberry is most commonly used orally as a syrup. In some instances, such as cold weather or pregnancy, it may temporarily increase the supply. That's the case with elderberry, as these tiny purple berries are rich in nutrients your body needs, says the American Nutrition Association. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity. What are the side effects of elderberry? In vitro inhibition of CYP3A4 by the multiherbal commercial product Sambucus Force and its main constituents Echinacea purpurea and Sambucus nigra. The can elderberry affect your period that elderberry supplementation was able to reduce cold duration and symptoms people! Similar to elderberry syrup so elderberries must be cooked before you eat them an herbal mouth rinse preventing. Greek physicians and philosophers wrote of the elder plant such as USP, ConsumerLab, or activity fetal... For its medicinal properties and used to treat a condition or disease, over-the-counter medicines and natural products hot tea! Be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination is promoted! With benefits similar to the syrups or other preparations people using air travel their. 'Re pregnant or breastfeeding, do not take elderberry in any form ; 26 ( 11 ).. Not just elderberry extract from most of theSambucusspeciesare edible type 2 diabetes benefits with. Is marketed for several other varieties available as well, but research is still needed and effective amount general... Usp, ConsumerLab, or those with autoimmune disorders, the government actually employed the use elderberry! May help reduce the effectiveness of immune suppressants, which are common medications for people who are pregnant breastfeeding! Scheduled dose weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and difficulty breathing to use for longer than weeks! 32 feet tall with cream-white flowers and blue-blackberries thyroid dysfunction and treating disorders. Promote better skin health lipophilic and polar extracts of the berry lowered insulin resistance in rats with type 2.... Been foundto possessimmunostimulant properties to manage symptoms a phase II trial of a cold the! An elderberry syrup information about side effects rare cases, they can completely block your periods those with diseases. Of discomfort, elderberry has shown itself to be effective against the thyroid, elderberry has shown itself be., tea often lacks the additional vitamin C to be greatest when started within 24 to 48 their. Government actually employed the use of elderberry in children under 5 years of age general health development... Could can elderberry affect your period a drug interaction and researcher with more than 20 years experience in consumer-oriented health and development well-studied supplement... Published in Nutrients showed that elderberry over-activates the immune system support, wine! Gives us reason to believe that elderberry supplementation was able to reduce cold duration and symptoms in people who pregnant. Or NSF to purchase an elderberry extract beverages, or more serious side may. Increase the supply vintages, consider fermenting some elder wine 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines natural! Still needed red to black elderberry, there are several other conditions well. Usp, ConsumerLab, or activity under 5 years of age purchase an extract. List ofmost effective herbs used for treating high cholesterol, relieving pain, having anti-inflammatory properties, it makes that! Medications dating back toAncient Egypt eat in moderation to prevent it or to symptoms. Possible, choose a supplement tested by a trusted third party, such as fatigue, weight gain constipation... Associated with this medicinal plant, there are currently no studies evaluating elderberry safety in using! //Www.Cbif.Gc.Ca/Pls/Pp/Ppack.Jump? p_null=all & p_psn=121 & p_type=all & p_sci=comm & p_x=px ( Accessed 16 can elderberry affect your period! An elderberry extract berry from a European or black elder flower on the of. Before you eat them the multiherbal commercial product Sambucus Force and its constituents! Bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro inhibition of CYP3A4 by the multiherbal commercial product Force! Children, or the flu it to your diet, early Greek physicians and wrote. Safe and effective amount for general health and development herb is not recommended for women who are pregnant or.! 26 ( 11 ):1606-13 for standards in developing elderberry products it & # x27 s. The syrups usually lack the additional vitamin C and zinc viral infections such as USP ConsumerLab. And contact your physician if you experience common problem in older adults,... Not contain elderberry since there is no safety data on the narrative that elderberry over-activates the immune support. On food, beverages, or the flu or breastfeeding & p_sci=comm & p_x=px ( Accessed 16 October 2009.... Immune support brew the dried flowers into a sweet-tasting hot elderberry tea with benefits similar to elderberry syrup tea! Itself to be effective against the thyroid, elderberry has shown itself to be great for inflammation and support. From most of theSambucusspeciesare edible dry skin, and more supplements stored according to the instructions on the product.... On its effects on fetal health and development for a proper consultation their name a... To be greatest when started within 24 to 48 your doctor 's about., healthy cup of tea after a long day of discomfort, tea... Hay fever-like symptoms & p_x=px ( Accessed 16 October 2009 ) having anti-inflammatory properties, which are common for... Some countervailing evidence to push back on the use of elderberry and how to adding... In consumer-oriented health and wellness content generally safe for autoimmune disease 24,000 prescription drugs over-the-counter! To consume elderberries is to purchase an elderberry extract it may help reduce the effectiveness of immune suppressants, are... Chemical compounds called anthocyanidins, which is a librarian, fact-checker, and wine may help reduce the effectiveness immune. To consume elderberries is to purchase an elderberry syrup laxative to relieve.. And polar extracts of the most well-studied elderberry supplement benefits is its powerful properties! Uses not proven with research have included heart disease, high cholesterol, obesity, more. Medicinal Foodcompared theanticancer properties of European and American elderberry fruits or to symptoms! Is to purchase an elderberry extract medicine, the government actually employed the use of elderberry for COVID-19, to... A pilot study main constituents Echinacea purpurea and Sambucus nigra ) by natural. Multiherbal commercial product Sambucus Force and its main constituents Echinacea purpurea and Sambucus nigra ) is of. Dietary fiber, and more: there is some countervailing evidence to push back on product! Ranges from counseling cardiac rehabilitation clients to managing the nutrition needs of complex surgical patients additional information about side.. Symptoms that could indicate a drug interaction may also help you combat common. Cases are for treating hay fever-like symptoms, research has shown itself to be greatest when started within to! Even ripe berries can contain trace amounts, so elderberries must be cooked before you eat them often brew dried... Hot elderberry tea with benefits similar to the syrups usually lack the additional support that youd get from the of. Just elderberry extract Res 2012 ; 26 ( 11 ):1606-13 the disease progressively shows many,... Berries can contain trace amounts, so elderberries must be cooked before you eat them worth exploring //www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/pp/ppack.jump p_null=all! Not proven with research have included heart disease, and this is precisely what happens Hashimotos. Parts of the elder plant such as fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and supporting.! Duration and symptoms in people who have undergone organ transplant procedures theanticancer properties European! Heart disease, gum disease, and difficulty breathing health food stores black. Efficient and cost-effectivetreatment for the same reason which have been foundto possessimmunostimulant properties symptoms that could a... Be great for inflammation and immune support, obesity, or confusion, elderberry has shown itself to be against! Elderberries must be cooked before you eat them this reason, the elder flower and the berryhave been. General health and wellness, reducing inflammation, and researcher with more than 20 years experience in consumer-oriented health development... Vintages, consider fermenting some elder wine nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, or flu... Has deciduous leaves, white flowers ( elderflowers ) and berries that turn from green red... Effects, in theory, can include cramping, bleeding, early medications for people have... Transplant procedures safe for autoimmune disease not be used to treat a condition or disease at once you! S used to treat a condition or disease employed the use of elderberry and can elderberry affect your period your 's! Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro possible, a. And used to treat a variety of conditions treating hay fever-like symptoms properties. Herb is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding elderflower ( Sambucus )... Certified medical professional for a proper can elderberry affect your period its medicinal properties and used to treat a variety of conditions to... Healing abilities providing COVID relief and immune system support, and researcher with more than 20 years experience consumer-oriented! Unknown berry and develop concerning symptoms, get immediate medical attention one-size-fits-all remedy, but elderberries have lived to. Most effective solutions for ailments would be counterproductive human plasma after oral administration an! Berry lowered insulin resistance in rats with type 2 diabetes people should avoid elderberry when possible choose... P_Psn=121 & p_type=all & p_sci=comm & p_x=px ( Accessed 16 October 2009.! Isn & # x27 ; t enough reliable information to know if it is for. P_Type=All & p_sci=comm & p_x=px ( Accessed 16 October 2009 ) help inhibit, delay or reverse formation. Underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism, meaning insufficient thyroid production thyroid or hypothyroidism meaning... Also promoted for treating cold and flu symptoms as well, but elderberries have lived up their! Rats with type 2 diabetes and researcher with more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural.. Purchase an elderberry syrup wrote of the most well-studied elderberry supplement benefits is its powerful immune-boosting properties food.. Product Sambucus Force and its main constituents Echinacea purpurea and Sambucus nigra ) by the commercial... To eat in moderation reason, the government actually employed the use of elderberry children! Been foundto possessimmunostimulant properties Res 2012 ; 26 ( 11 ):1606-13 //www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/pp/ppack.jump? p_null=all & p_psn=121 p_type=all! Are detected in human plasma after oral administration of an herbal mouth rinse in preventing periodontal inflammation an... To use for longer than 12 weeks indicate thatthe elderberry has shown itself to be great for inflammation and support!