The Ancient Yet Effective Cold and Flu Treatment

During the winter months when cold and flu season is in full swing, many of us are concerned about falling ill with a virus. With the added threat of the coronavirus, finding an effective antiviral solution is more important than ever.

An effective antiviral remedy that stands out is elderberry. It is widely recognized and trusted by many individuals who may not typically use supplements but rely on elderberry extract to help prevent or alleviate cold and flu symptoms.

Elderberry extract is available in various forms such as liquids, capsules, lozenges, and gummies, making it convenient for consumption. While it may not guarantee immunity, incorporating elderberry into your routine can certainly provide some relief when dealing with cold and flu symptoms.

If you are unfamiliar with elderberry extract, it's time to learn more about this age-old remedy for colds and flu.

Elderberry is derived from the Sambucas tree, with the most common variety being Sambucus nigra, also known as European elderberry or black elderberry. Although native to Europe, elderberry is cultivated in many other regions around the world.

The tart berries are often used in culinary preparations, such as juices, teas, jams, and even wines. Various parts of the elderberry tree have been utilized for both culinary and medicinal purposes throughout history.

Ancient Origins

Elderberry has roots tracing back to ancient Egypt, where it was used by women to enhance their skin and by healers to treat burns. Native Americans also valued elderberry for its medicinal properties in combating infections. Today, elderberry continues to play a significant role in natural medicine in Europe.

Traditionally, the flowers and leaves of the elderberry plant have been employed to alleviate pain, inflammation, and swelling. Meanwhile, dried elderberries have been utilized to combat influenza and a range of infections.

Effective Relief for Flu Symptoms

A study conducted in Norway involved 60 participants experiencing influenza-like symptoms for 48 hours or less. The study revealed that individuals who received elderberry extract experienced symptom relief approximately four days earlier than those who received a placebo, with less reliance on additional medication.

Another study demonstrated that taking 175 mg elderberry extract lozenges for two days resulted in significant improvements in flu symptoms within 24 hours, including fever, headache, muscle aches, and nasal congestion.

Personally, I have found elderberry to provide relief even faster in some instances.

Antioxidant-Rich and Antiviral Properties

Research indicates that elderberry is a rich source of vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants. However, its unique advantage seems to stem from a protein called hemagglutinin, which may be responsible for its effectiveness in combating the flu virus.

Studies have shown that the hemagglutinin protein in elderberry can inhibit a virus's ability to replicate and penetrate cell walls, thereby hindering its spread and potentially reducing flu symptoms.

In a separate study involving 312 air travelers, those who took elderberry extract capsules three times daily experienced a shorter illness duration and milder symptoms when they fell ill.

Flu Prevention Potential

Research has shown that individuals who consume elderberries exhibit higher levels of antibodies against the flu virus. While elderberry may help alleviate flu symptoms, its ability to prevent the virus altogether has yet to be definitively proven through clinical trials.

Personally, I take elderberry daily during the winter season and have noticed a decrease in the frequency of colds. While elderberry has not shielded me from all flu infections, I believe it has aided in my quicker recovery.

Most product instructions recommend a low dose of elderberry extract for prevention, with the option to increase the dosage if cold symptoms begin to manifest.

Although not scientifically proven, I have taken substantial doses of elderberry when feeling under the weather without experiencing any adverse effects. In my experience, elderberry appears to be a safe remedy.