14 Health Benefits of Elderberry

2. May Improve Cold and Flu Symptoms

Black Elderberry extracts and flower infusions have been shown to reduce the severity and length of influenza. Commercial preparations of Elderberry for the treatment of colds come in various forms, including liquids, capsules, lozenges, and gummies.

One study of 60 people with influenza found that those who took Elderberry syrup four times per day showed symptom improvement in two to four days, while the control group took seven to eight days to improve.

Another study of 64 people found that taking Elderberry extract lozenges for two days resulted in significant improvement in flu symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, and nasal congestion, after just 24 hours.

Furthermore, a study of 312 air travelers taking capsules containing Elderberry extract three times per day found that those who got sick experienced a shorter duration of illness and less severe symptoms.

Elderberry extract has been found to reduce the length and severity of symptoms caused by the influenza virus. While these results are promising, further large-scale human studies are needed.