The flu starts with a cold or a runny nose, but other symptoms follow quickly, including fever, achiness, cough, headache, chills, congestion and weakness. The flu starts with a virus, so it doesn't respond to antibiotics. Elderberry, the fruit of the black elder shrub may possess antiviral properties, so taking the herb at the onset of flu symptoms may shorten the flu's duration, according to NYU Langone Medical Center.
Elderberry: The Herb
The black elder, or Sambucus nigra, grows in many parts of the world including the United States, where it can be found along waterways and ponds. In mid-spring, clouds of tiny cream blossoms develop on large heads atop tall stems, giving the shrub an ethereal look. In fall, tiny violet-black berries form, bowing the stems under their weight. The phenolic acid and flavonoids in elderberry might be responsible for its antiviral benefits, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," although testing is necessary to verify that benefit.
Elderberry Tea
You may prepare an herbal tea from elderberries, available at health food stores, by pouring 1 cup of near boiling water over 2 tsp. of the dried berries and steeping for 5 minutes before straining. The "Gale Encyclopedia" suggests drinking elderberry tea as hot as is comfortably possible. Adults may drink several cups of tea per day, but don't exceed 15 g of dried elderberries.
Elderberry Extract
An alternate way to take elderberry is through the use of a concentrated liquid extract. You may use mix the drops into juice or another herbal tea. Follow the instructions on the bottle, or call your doctor for detailed dosage advice. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
Considerations
If elder grows in your vicinity, you may harvest the fresh berries in autumn, but brew them in a tea before consuming. Fresh elderberries can be toxic. Do not give elderberry to children or to pregnant women and nursing mothers, unless directed to do so by a doctor. Those with liver or kidney disorders should not use elderberry products. Because the flu can be serious, see your doctor for treatment and use elderberry only under a doctor's supervision.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Influenza Symptoms
- NYU Langone Medical Center: Elderberry
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
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