Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

American Elder (Sambucus canadensis), closely related to European elderberry (Sambucus nigra), has a long history of traditional use for treating respiratory illnesses, including colds and flu-like symptoms accompanied by fever. The use of elderberries for these ailments is rooted in folk medicine, but in recent decades, several scientific studies—most conducted with European elder—have investigated elderberry’s efficacy for colds and influenza. These studies have found that elderberry extract may reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms, including fever, possibly due to its high content of flavonoids and anthocyanins, which exhibit antiviral and immune-modulating properties. Although most clinical trials have used extracts of S. nigra, American elder shares similar phytochemical profiles and traditional uses, suggesting comparable effects, but direct clinical evidence for S. canadensis is limited. Overall, the evidence supporting elderberry’s benefit for colds with fever is moderate; it is supported by both tradition and several small but well-conducted human studies, leading to a medium rating for scientific evidence. However, more robust, large-scale clinical trials, especially with American elder specifically, are needed to confirm efficacy and safety. Elderberry products should not be used as a sole treatment for serious infections, and raw elderberries should not be consumed due to potential toxicity.

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