What is Elderberry?
- Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MBA
- 12 mind read
Description
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) is the most common species belonging to the Adoxaceae family and Sambucus L. genus.
The dark purple berry of the European or black elder tree, known as elderberry, is found in various regions including warmer parts of Europe, North America, Asia, and Northern Africa. Folk medicine has utilized elderberries to treat colds and flu. Although elderberry is promoted as a dietary supplement for treating colds, flu, and other ailments, there is insufficient evidence to support its use, including for COVID-19.
Bioactive Compounds
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) is a plant that contains a variety of bioactive compounds, which provide different health benefits. Understanding the properties of these compounds can help in the effective use of elderberries in the food industry. Elderberry is particularly rich in (poly)phenolic compounds and terpenoid compounds, which are known to have several health benefits. Elderberry leaves and fruits contain a range of (poly)phenolic compounds, such as phenolic acids, flavanones, flavonols, and anthocyanins. The primary phenolic acids found in elderberry fruit are gallic acid and gentisic acid. In addition, elderberry fruit is abundant in rutin and quercetin. On the other hand, elderberry flower extracts are rich in chlorogenic acid, 5-p-coumaroylquinic acid, and dicaffeoylquinic acid.
Uses
Up to now, there have been limited clinical trials supporting the health benefits of elderberry. Overall, elderberry is a promising dietary source of bioactive ingredients and has the potential to be developed into functional foods or nutraceuticals for preventing and treating certain chronic diseases.
Side Effects
Elderberry is a popular ingredient in many food items. However, there is not enough evidence to confirm whether it is safe to use for longer periods of 12 weeks or longer. It is not recommended to consume elder leaves or stems, or unripe and uncooked elderberries, as they can be potentially unsafe. Cooked elderberries, on the other hand, are generally safe to consume. Raw and unripe elderberries may cause adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, or severe diarrhea
Dosing
Elderberries that are raw and unripe, as well as other parts of the elder tree like the leaves and stem, contain harmful substances such as sambunigrin. These substances can cause digestive problems like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cooking the elderberries removes the toxin.
However, consuming large quantities of the toxin can lead to severe sickness. Avoid elderberry during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as there is limited information if it is safe. Elderberry is available in various forms such as syrups and mouth rinses. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate type of product and dosage for a specific condition.
Sources
Liu D, He X-Q, Wu D-T, et al. Elderberry (sambucus nigra L.): Bioactive compounds, health functions, and applications. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 2022;70(14):4202–20
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Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MB
Dr. Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk is a renowned life scientist with expertise in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. A Harvard Medical School faculty member since 2005, she has led research on diabetes and cardiovascular diseases while mentoring students and postdocs.
As a sought-after speaker, Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk shares her insights at events like Supply Side West and Women in Nutraceuticals (WIN), and has presented Canomiks’ work at top conferences. She is featured in publications such as Nutraceuticals World and Nutrition Industry Executive. Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk actively supports the nutraceuticals industry, serving as Co-Chair of the WIN Science Committee, and as a board member for Launch Minnesota and the Jeremiah Program.
She holds a PhD in Pharmacology from Tulane University, an MBA from MIT Sloan, and a BSc from the University of Mumbai. Her leadership continues to influence Canomiks and the wellness industry
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