By: Claire Thompson
Updated: Dec. 18, 2023
Originally Published: Feb. 24, 2018
As a parent, I am generally skeptical of unfounded claims, particularly when it comes to the health of my children. I prefer to avoid unnecessary medications, but when faced with serious illnesses like the flu or pneumonia, I will not hesitate to rely on proven treatments. I believe in the efficacy of antivirals, antibiotics, and whatever my pediatrician recommends—after all, these medical professionals have extensive training and base their guidelines on rigorous scientific research.
Nonetheless, this doesn’t mean that alternative medicine lacks merit. Certain holistic remedies possess scientific validation and can complement traditional treatments effectively. Elderberry is a prime example of this.
You may have encountered elderberry products in health food stores or pharmacies, available in various forms such as gummies, capsules, tinctures, or the thick syrup marketed for both adults and children. The elderberry plant is actually a flowering shrub, and while you can grow it at home, caution is needed as the raw berries are toxic unless properly cooked.
The most intriguing aspect of elderberry is its potential effectiveness in alleviating cold and flu symptoms, supported by research published in credible medical literature. According to The University of Maryland Medical Center, compounds in elder flowers and berries may alleviate swelling in mucous membranes, including the sinuses, and alleviate nasal congestion. Elderberry may also exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
Empirical evidence strengthens this claim. A study in the Journal of International Medical Research indicated that patients who consumed elderberry syrup within 48 hours of contracting Influenza A and B recovered up to four days faster than those who received a placebo. Another investigation, published in Nutrients, revealed that air travelers who took elderberry experienced a two-day reduction in cold symptoms compared to those who did not. Moreover, research presented in Phytochemistry found that elderberry was effective against H1N1 in laboratory settings, although further studies are necessary to determine its impact on humans.
While anecdotal evidence should not drive medical decisions—”It worked for someone I know, so it must work for me!”—numerous individuals have reported positive outcomes with elderberry. Personally, I became a believer after a family experience with the flu. After my eldest child fell ill, my youngest soon followed. Recalling the benefits of elderberry, I consulted our pediatrician and ensured both children started taking elderberry syrup immediately. My husband also took it as a preventive measure, as he was frequently exposed to whatever germs the kids brought home.
Interestingly, I chose not to take any myself, feeling rather invincible. Additionally, our supply of elderberry was running low, and we were too fatigued to make a trip to the store, questioning whether the syrup would even provide any benefit.
My children recovered within two days, while my husband remained healthy. In stark contrast, I was bedridden for an entire week, grappling with the most severe illness I had experienced in years. This stark difference in our experiences has solidified my belief in the efficacy of elderberry syrup, especially when supported by scientific findings.
Since that incident, our family has managed to avoid the flu (knock on wood, especially during this challenging flu season). In addition to receiving our annual flu vaccinations and seeking medical advice when necessary, I always keep a bottle of elderberry syrup in our medicine cabinet during cold and flu season, as it has proven effective for us.
As with any treatment, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before using elderberry syrup, as certain contraindications may exist.
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In summary, while conventional medicine plays a vital role in treating illnesses, incorporating scientifically-backed alternatives like elderberry syrup can enhance our family’s health regimen.