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Elderberry Confirmed as Immunity Booster
Analysis by Dr. Joseph MercolaFact Checked
elderberries confirmed as immunity booster
STORY AT-A-GLANCE
Research found compounds in black elderberry (Sambucus
nigra) could directly inhibit viral entry into cells and subsequent
replication, in part attributed to the anthocyanidin responsible for the vivid
purple coloring of the fruit
Flu is caused by the influenza virus, triggering fever,
cough, sore throat, muscle aches and fatigue lasting five to seven days; you
may be infectious up to 24 hours before your first symptom
Flu vaccines are produced before the first seasonal
outbreak, so manufacturers can only estimate which viruses to include in the
vaccine; according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu
vaccine has been less than 50% effective more than half the time in the past 14
years
Elderberries are high in phytonutrients but must be cooked
thoroughly before use as they contain a poisonous cyanide-producing chemical.
In addition to elderberry, using quercetin during a viral illness may reduce
the length of your illness
Elderberries have been used for hundreds of years for their
health benefits. Many believe the high number of antioxidants in the berries
contribute to its ability to fight the flu, support the immune system and
relieve colds. Elderberries are the fruit of the Sambucus tree, the most common
of which is Sambucus nigra.1
The plant, also known as black elderberry, European
elderberry and European elder, has documented origins dating as far back as
2000 B.C. in Switzerland, where there is evidence that the ancient Swiss
cultivated it. However, since it's also believed to be native to North America,
historians speculate that it's possible its seeds were spread by the retreating
Ice Age more than 10,000 years ago.2
Recipes using elderberries for medicinal purposes have been
recorded dating back to ancient Egypt, where they were used as a skin and burn
potion.3 Historians generally credit Hippocrates as the first physician to use
it, who described the elderberry as his "medicine chest."4
Herbal products and folk medicines have been used for
centuries to combat a range of ailments, sometimes to the embarrassment of
modern scientists. A chemical and biomolecular engineering research team from
the University of Sydney focused a new study5 on the phytochemicals and
compounds found in elderberries that may positively affect health.
Elderberry Extract May Minimize Flu Symptoms
Although there are several different types of elderberry
plants, the most commonly known and studied is the Sambucus nigra. Supplements
are available as syrup, gummies, lozenges, pills and tea, and were believed to
work by supplying antioxidants and supporting the natural immune support
response.6
In the current study,7 researchers found compounds in the
elderberry could directly inhibit the flu virus's entrance into cells and
subsequent replication. Flu-fighting properties had been observed in previous
studies, but this group examined the actual mechanism the phytochemicals used
to combat the influenza infection.
The researchers used commercially cultivated elderberries,
which were used for elderberry juice serum. They applied this to cells before,
during and after they had infected them with the influenza virus. As expected,
the juice was effective at stopping the virus from infecting the cells.8
However, they were surprised to find the juice also
effectively inhibited replication after the cells had been infected with the
virus. The authors found this significant since blocking the virus at several
stages increases the potential it may inhibit infection. Study author Fariba
Dehghani, Ph.D., commented:9
"In addition to that, we identified that the
elderberry solution also stimulated the cells to release certain cytokines,
which are chemical messengers that the immune system uses for communication
between different cell types to coordinate a more efficient response against
the invading pathogen."
The team also discovered the antiviral activity was in part
attributed to the anthocyanidin compounds, phytonutrients responsible for the
vivid purple coloring in the fruit. The study supported the results of a
previous study10 in which adults suffering from flu-like symptoms who took
elderberry syrup had their illnesses clear on average four days sooner than
those who took a placebo syrup.
Another study11 tested the effectiveness of an elderberry
product on 312 overseas air travelers. The researchers found there was not a
statistically significant difference in the number who acquired a cold, but
those taking the syrup had a shorter duration and less severe cold symptoms
than the control group.
Key Facts About the Flu
Influenza, commonly called flu, is a contagious respiratory
illness that may cause mild to severe symptoms. Although some of the symptoms
are similar, flu is different from a cold caused by a separate set of viruses.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),12 flu
symptoms may occur rapidly and include:
Fever or feeling feverish and experiencing chills
Muscle or body aches
Headaches
Sore throat
Cough
Runny or stuffy nose
Fatigue
Some may experience vomiting and diarrhea, although this is
more common in children than adults. Most think of flu season occurring between
October and May when millions across the U.S. contract the virus.13 However,
while this is the most common time, the virus may spread at any time during the
year.
Wintertime flu is more common as the virus lives longer
indoors during the winter months when the air is less humid than it is outside.
During the winter, we also tend to spend more time indoors and have closer
contact with others, making it easier for the virus to spread.14
The virus spreads through the air after an individual who
is infected sneezes, coughs or speaks. Sometimes it may be passed through an
object that's been touched or coughed on. An individual may touch the
contaminated item and then touch their nose or mouth, at which time the virus
enters their system.
Those carrying the virus may be contagious 24 hours before
their symptoms first appear and up to seven days after they experience their first
symptoms. This means it's possible to pass the flu virus on even before you
know you're sick. Symptoms of flu usually last from five to seven days.15
While there are more than 100 different viruses known to
trigger cold symptoms, there are only four influenza viruses.16,17 Scientists
have named them Types A, B, C and D.
Type A flu viruses may be found in different animals as
well as humans, including ducks, chickens, horses, pigs and seals.18 Type B
viruses only affect people. Type C viruses cause mild respiratory symptoms
while Type A and B are responsible for seasonal outbreaks. Type D is associated
with cattle and so far has not been known to infect humans.19
The Flu Vaccine Will Always Struggle To Be Effective
Each year the influenza virus changes slightly, which the
CDC describes as drift or shift.20 In some years, this means flu symptoms may
be mild as your body was exposed to a similar virus and has produced antibodies
to fight the infection. Approximately every 10 years to 40 years the virus undergoes
a major change and more people get severe symptoms and a pandemic may arise.21
Vaccines are produced before flu season begins, so
scientists must resort to an educated guess as to how the virus may have
changed from the year before to adjust their vaccine for the current year.
According to the CDC, three production technologies have
been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), including
egg-based vaccines, cell-based vaccines and recombinant vaccines.22
Each is made by manufacturers in the private sector. Over
the last 14 seasons, CDC data show the vaccine is less than 50% effective more
than half the time.23 As just one example, the CDC estimated the overall
effectiveness for the 2017 flu vaccine was a modest 38%.
Steer Clear of Drugs to Treat the Flu
Should you or your child be infected with the influenza
virus, your doctor or pediatrician may recommend Tamiflu.24 However, it's
important to note this antiviral drug shortens flu symptoms by less than 17
hours,25 does not reduce viral spread, and does not lessen your risk of
complications such as pneumonia.26
A review of the literature by the Cochrane group also warns
that the health risks associated with Tamiflu could far outweigh the
benefits.27 Many pharmaceutical drugs come with side effects, and Tamiflu is
not exempt. Risks may include seizures, brain infections, psychosis and other
neuropsychiatric problems.
A 2015 study28 reported how a 22-year-old man experienced
auditory hallucinations, memory deterioration, mood swings, suicidal feelings
and insomnia after taking the drug. An ABC News story29 described how a
6-year-old girl started hallucinating and attempted to jump out a second-story
window after taking Tamiflu.
Another study30 found more than half of all children
suffered side effects from Tamiflu. A journalist in the Atlantic noted,31
"The only people helped by the proven-to-be-ineffective drug are its
manufacturers." A 2013 Forbes32 article spelled out several flaws in the
science behind Tamiflu, and how the benefits were overstated.
Despite this overwhelming evidence, the CDC still
recommends flu vaccines and antiviral drugs like Tamiflu and continues to claim
the drugs may prevent serious complications,33although the evidence clearly
shows these antivirals do no such thing. The take-home message is to do your
homework and not blindly follow public health recommendations.
More Benefits to Using Elderberry
While researchers found elderberry products could reduce
cold and flu symptoms without the side effects associated with the flu shot or
antiviral medications, the berries may also have additional benefits. If you
choose to pick your own elderberries, they may be used to make juice, wine,
extracts, syrups and jams.34
When picking, seek out blue, dark purple or black fruit as
only these varieties may be eaten.35 It is crucial that they are completely
ripened and you cook them thoroughly before ingesting since the raw berries are
poisonous, containing a cyanide-producing chemical.36In addition to the flu
fighting benefits, elderberries may also:
Promote detoxification37
Reduce cardiovascular disease38
Promote wound healing39
Soften skin and treat acne40
Soothe sunburns41
Promote the healing of sprains and bruises42
Naturally Support Your Immune System
Your immune system is your first line of defense against
infections, so the most effective method of preventing illness is support your
immune system. Your diet and other lifestyle factors are foundational to immune
function. Nutrition may be the most vital component in maintaining — or gaining
— a healthy immune system.
The addition of elderberry and taking quercetin during a
viral illness may help reduce the length of your illness. Research from
Appalachian State University in North Carolina found quercetin could reduce
illness and boost mental performance after extreme physical stress.43
Successfully running the gauntlet of flu season may be
simply a matter of keeping your immune system boosted by applying a few key
health strategies. Aside from school and work, other points at which your
immune system might be compromised include during travel, and when you are
sleep deprived or stressed out.
Sources and
References
1 Medical News Today, October 9, 2018
2 The Herb Society of America, 2013
3 Journal of Dietary Supplements January 2014
4 BMC Complement Altern Med 2011; 11: 16
5, 7 Journal of Functional Food, 2019;54:353
6 Discover. What Is Elderberry Good For? May 2, 2022
8, 9 Science Daily, April 23, 2019
10 Journal of International Medical Research,
2004;32(2):132
11 Nutrients, 2016;8(4):182
12 Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Facts
About Influenza
13 Kids Health, Flu Facts
14 CDC. How Flu Spreads
15 Harvard Health Publishing, How Long Does the Flu Last?
16, 19 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Types of
Influenza Viruses September 27, 2017
17 Stat Pearls, Influenza February 18, 2019
18 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Transmission
… Between Animals and People, February 10, 2015
20 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, How the Flu
Virus Changes
21 CDC Pink Book May 16, 2018
22 Center for Disease Control and Prevention, How Influenza
Vaccines are Made
23 CDC, February 15, 2018. Seasonal Influenza Vaccine
Effectiveness, 2005-2018
24 Mayo Clinic, Influenza (Flu) April 11, 2019
25, 26 BMJ 2014;348:g2545
27 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2014, Issue 4.
Art. No.: CD008965
28 Clinical Psychopharmacology and Neuroscience, 2015; 13(2):
209–211
29 ABC News, January 16, 2018
30 Eurosurveillance July 2009; 14(30)
31 The Atlantic February 19, 2013
32 Forbes, January 8, 2013
33 Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Preventive
Steps
34 Utah State University Extension, Elderberry in the
Garden
35 The Spruce, January 9, 2019
36 Molecules. 2021 Mar; 26(5): 1384
37 The Alchemists Kitchen, Elderberry: Queen of Herbs
38 International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
2017;18(3):584
39 Cure Joy, September 21, 2017
40 American Nutrition Association, August 6, 2017
41 Lily Farm Fresh Skin Care, Elderberry, A Medicinal Plant
42 Medscape, Elderberry
43 Ther Adv Psychopharmacol. 2012 Aug; 2(4): 131–138
From comments section:
Elderberry extracts prevented GSH depletion, ROS
production, and DNA fragmentation Bioactivity tests revealed that elderberry
juice was an extremely potent agent in the NO free radical scavenging process
(53.06 g TE per L of juice), while in reducing excessive enzyme activity, the
The best result was achieved in the inhibition of the enzyme tyrosinase (54.70
mg KAE per g of juice).
www.sciencedirect.com/.../S1756464614002400 (2015)
www.babybearsfarm.com/uploads/7/1/2/5/71259929/charlebois284-292.pdf (2007)
pubs.rsc.org/.../d0ra09129d
(2020)
bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12906-02.. (2021)
link.springer.com/.../s11696-021-01862-x (2022)
pubs.acs.org/.../acs.jafc.2c00010 (2022)
www.sciencedirect.com/.../S2590157522002358 (2022).
Immunodaat, a proprietary botanical extract, contains
standardized elderberry extract (Sambucus Nigra L.). Elderberry is used as an
immunity enhancer for the prevention and treatment of various respiratory
diseases and as an antioxidant. A prospective, multicenter, randomized,
comparative, open-label clinical study was conducted in 74 subjects who
recovered from post-COVID-19 symptoms of mild to moderate COVID-19 in the past.
The study concludes that the use of Immunodaat for 30 days
helped normalize physical and mental symptoms that occurred due to Post COVID
and prolonged COVID. Immunodaat can be considered as a safe and effective
natural ingredient in the management of Post COVID-19 or prolonged COVID
condition. www.medrxiv.org/.../2022.10.04.22280680v2 (2022)
3 recommendations to rescue patients from COVID-19
infection 1) People who have been exposed to nicotine prior to their exposure
to the virus are "set" to be at increased risk because nicotine can
directly affect the virus's putative receptor (ACE2) and lead to detrimental
signaling. in the epithelial cells of the lung. Furthermore, several cytokines,
including IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-, which are induced by smoking, could trigger a
"cytokine storm" in COVID-19. febs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/.../febs.15303
(2020) 2) Mouth spray as recommended by Dr. Mercola.
Blocking virus entry is a potential therapeutic target,
direct virus clearance in the throat by betadine oral or nasal spray could be
more effective than angiotensin receptor 2 (AR2) receptor downregulation 3) The
use of elderberry supplements may be effective in an early course of the
disease. Although not tested in coronavirus, elderberry supplements were shown
to be effective in cold and influenza by a randomized, double-blind,
placebo-controlled study and meta-analysis. Currently, since elderberry
supplements can be purchased by anyone without a prescription as an
over-the-counter medication, if it does not cause any significant harm, there
is no reason not to use it and it can be applied early in the course of the
disease.
Although there have been some reports of some cytokines
being increased by elderberry supplements, elderberry supplements also have
various types of other effects. In addition, we should also refer to the
evidence-based systematic review of elderberry and elderflower by the Natural
Standard Research Collaboration, which could be applied to the current COVID-19
pandemic.
At this point, we should be able to guide the use of these
elderberry supplements to the general population or patients with COVID-19 as
follows: “Elderberry supplements can be used in people with COVID-19 in an
early course of the disease , if understanding the previous efficacy of these
and the possible adverse effects”. alkalinediet.com/.../ElderberryAntiViral.pdf (2021)
www.researchgate.net/profile/Ethan-Basch/publication/259696401_An_Evid..
the-Natural-Standard-Research-Collaboration.pdf --- ELDERBERRIES AS A POTENTIAL
SUPPLEMENT TO IMPROVE VASCULAR FUNCTION IN A SARS-COV-2 ENVIRONMENT According
to the literature, anthocyanins, a major subgroup of flavonoid polyphenols
found in berries, have been well-investigated for their vascular-protective
properties, as well as the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related
deaths.
Elderberries have previously been used as a natural remedy
for the treatment of colds, flu, and consequently cardiovascular health due to
a high content of cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G), one of the main anthocyanins
found in the human diet. The literature reported many studies showing that EE
has both antiviral and vascular protective properties that need to be further
investigated as a nutritional component used against the indirect effect of
SARS-CoV-2 on vascular function. onlinelibrary.wiley.com/.../jfbc.14091 (2022)
