Evidence supporting the use of: Southern Elder
For the health condition: Allergies (respiratory)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Southern Elder (Sambucus australis and related species) has a long history of traditional use for respiratory conditions, including allergies. In ethnobotanical records from South America and Europe, various elder species have been employed as remedies for "catarrh," hay fever, and upper respiratory tract inflammation. The flowers, in particular, have been made into teas or infusions believed to possess anti-inflammatory and diaphoretic properties, which were thought to help alleviate symptoms of respiratory allergies such as nasal congestion and runny nose. These uses are documented in herbal medicine texts and folk medicine traditions, but rigorous scientific validation is lacking.

Modern pharmacological research on elderberry (mainly Sambucus nigra, a close relative) has focused on antiviral and immune-modulating effects, with some evidence for benefit in viral respiratory infections like influenza. However, there is a paucity of controlled studies specifically examining Southern Elder for allergic rhinitis or other allergy-related respiratory conditions. The traditional rating (2/5) reflects that while there is a plausible historical basis for this use, and elder plants contain flavonoids and phenolics with anti-inflammatory potential, direct clinical evidence for efficacy in allergies is minimal. Therefore, the use of Southern Elder for allergies remains primarily supported by tradition, not strong scientific evidence.

More about Southern Elder
More about Allergies (respiratory)

Products containing Southern Elder

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