Symptoms of the stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, include diarrhea, low-grade fever, nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramping, headache and muscle aches. Although this illness is frequently called the stomach flu, it isn't the same as seasonal influenza, which targets the respiratory tract. Elderberry preparations may have antiviral effects, making the herb potentially beneficial for reducing the symptoms of viral gastroenteritis. Since the symptoms are similar to symptoms of other disorders, call your doctor if you think you have the stomach flu before self-treating with any herbal remedy.
Elderberry Properties
Sambucus nigra is the botanical name for elderberry, which is also called black elder and European elder. The plant grows wild in many areas of the world, including the United States, where you can find it along roadways and pond perimeters. Elderberries contain volatile oils and flavonoids that may give the herb antiviral properties, according to the book "PDR for Herbal Medicines."
Elderberry's Effect on the Stomach Flu
Elderberry products may reduce congestion and increase perspiration, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, although there is no indication that the berries are soothing to an upset stomach. Theoretically, if elderberry kills viruses, it could shorten the duration of a bout with viral gastroenteritis, but studies focusing on the benefit of elderberry for treating stomach flu are lacking.
Administration
Elderberry products are available in health food stores and include concentrated juices, lozenges, tincture and the dried herb. Follow the dosage instructions on the package, or call your doctor for specific dosage recommendations.
Considerations
Avoid consuming fresh elderberries, which may be toxic. Elderberry products may interfere with other medications, including drugs to control blood sugar, laxatives, asthma medications, immunosuppressants and chemotherapy medications.
The Food and Drug Administration does not oversee the production of herbal remedies, so you have no guarantee of purity, effectiveness or quality. Due to a lack of research on the safety of elderberry, children, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should not use elderberry remedies, unless directed to do so by their doctors.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Viral Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, PhD; 2000
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Elderberry
