Sambucus, or elderberry, is a native North American perennial shrub found along the edges of swamps, roads, woods and fields. The flowers and blue-black fruit of the elderberry bush has been traditionally used in folk medicine as an herbal tea, and as a remedy for a wide range of ailments including colds, flu and skin disorders.
Fights Influenza
Influenza is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by a virus. Influenza can be caused by a variety of viruses. Regardless of the type of flu you may have, you may feel body aches, chills, fever, nausea and vomiting for about a week. In a study published in a 2004 issue of "The Journal of International Medical Research," patients who received elderberry or sambucus syrup experienced earlier relief from flu symptoms, compared to patients who received a placebo. The authors concluded that elderberry extract may be a safe, inexpensive and effective remedy for influenza infections.
Delays Aging
Ripe black sambucus, or elderberries, are rich in anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are blue-black pigments with antioxidant properties found in fruits, vegetables and red wines. Antioxidants are food substances that neutralize free radicals -- unstable and highly reactive molecules that can damage our cells. Free radicals are produced by our bodies during normal metabolism, and by environmental factors such as pollutants and toxins. Diets high in fruits and vegetables are considered protective against aging and against disorders associated with aging, such as heart disease. In the past, it was believed that anthocyanins were not absorbed in the human body. However, a study published in a 2002 issue of "Mechanisms of Ageing and Development" found that anthocyanins in fruits and vegetables are absorbed and used by the body in its natural form. This suggests that people with diets high in fruits and vegetables are benefiting from the anthocyanins. Furthermore, an investigation by Youdim and colleagues, published in a 2000 issue of the journal "Free Radical Biology and Medicine," reported that endothelial cells -- cells that make up the innermost lining of blood vessels -- include anthocyanins in their membranes. The finding indicates a built-in protection against free radicals in these tissues.
Supports the Immune System
The immune system is a network of cells, tissues and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful microorganisms or toxins. Cytokines, key participants of the immune system, are molecules secreted by cells that regulate other cells. A study published in a 2001 issue of the "European Cytokine Network" reported that sambucol elderberry extract stimulates the immune system by enhancing the production of cytokines, thereby protecting the host.
Tips and Precautions
Do not use unripe sambucus berries, as they are poisonous and may cause nausea or severe diarrhea. Do not use sambucus berries or herbal remedies if you are taking diuretics, or medicines that increase urination. If you have concerns about using sambucus products, speak to your doctor to avoid drug interactions, or any other potential side effects.
References
- Pubmed Health: Influenza A; Influenza B; October 2010
- "The Journal of International Medical Research"; Randomized Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Oral Elderberry Extract in the Treatment of Influenza A and B Virus Infections; Z. Zakay-Rones, et al.; March-April 2004
- "Mechanisms of Ageing and Development"; Bioavailability of Elderberry Anthocyanins; P.E. Milbury, et al.; April 2002
- "Free Radical Biology and Medicine"; Incorporation of Elderberry Anthocyanins by Endothelial Cells Increases Protection Against Oxidative Stress; K.A. Youdim, et al.; July 2000
- "European Cytokine Network"; The Effect of Sambucol, a Black Elderberry-Based Natural Product on the Production of Human Cytokines; V.Barak. et al.; April - June 2001
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases; Cytokines
