Synopsis

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

Anthocyanins, a class of flavonoid pigments found in many fruits and vegetables (notably berries), have a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in cultures that emphasize the consumption of colorful plant foods for health. Folk remedies often include elderberry (rich in anthocyanins) syrups or teas as supportive measures for colds and flu. The rationale stems from the general belief in natural products boosting immune health and providing antioxidants that may help the body resist infections.

Scientific evidence for anthocyanins specifically preventing or treating the common cold is limited. Some laboratory and small clinical studies suggest that anthocyanin-rich extracts (such as elderberry) may have antiviral properties and could slightly reduce the duration or severity of cold symptoms, but the quality, size, and consistency of these studies vary. Systematic reviews note a lack of large-scale, high-quality human trials to confirm these effects. The potential mechanism involves modulation of inflammatory cytokines and possible inhibition of viral replication, but this has not been definitively proven in humans. Thus, while there is traditional use and some preliminary scientific interest, the overall evidence is weak and does not yet justify strong recommendations for anthocyanins in cold prevention or treatment.

More about anthocyanins
More about Colds (prevention)

Other ingredients used for Colds (prevention)

Other health conditions supported by anthocyanins

Products containing anthocyanins