Elderberry — FarmPal
Powerful antiviral berries from a beautiful shrub. A must-have for cold and flu season.
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) has growing evidence for reducing duration and severity of viral upper respiratory infections, particularly influenza. A 2019 meta-analysis and subsequent studies support its use as an adjunct during cold and flu season.
- Complementary Therapies in Medicine 2019;43:36-41
- Nutrients 2024 systematic review
- NCCIH Elderberry Fact Sheet
Medicinal Properties
Parts Used
Traditional Uses
- •Cold and flu prevention and treatment
- •Fever reduction
- •Upper respiratory infections
- •Sinus infections
- •Allergies (flowers)
- •Skin health (flowers)
Preparations
Simmer 1 cup dried berries in 3 cups water until reduced by half. Strain, add 1 cup honey when cooled to warm. Add cinnamon, cloves, ginger to taste. Bottle and refrigerate.
Dosage: Prevention: 1 tbsp daily adults, 1 tsp children. Acute: every 2-3 hours
Steep 1-2 tsp dried flowers in 8 oz hot water for 10-15 minutes.
Dosage: 3 cups daily for fever or allergies
Fill jar 1/2 with dried berries, cover with vodka. Shake daily for 4-6 weeks.
Dosage: 30-60 drops, 3-4 times daily during illness
Combine elderberry tincture with equal parts raw honey and apple cider vinegar.
Dosage: 1 tablespoon as needed, great for sore throats
Harvesting Guide
Timing: Berries: late summer when fully dark purple-black. Flowers: late spring when fully open.
Method: Cut whole berry clusters with scissors. Strip berries with a fork. Flowers: harvest whole heads.
Drying: Dry berries on screens at 95-100°F until completely dry and shriveled. Flowers dry quickly at room temp.
⚠️ Cautions
- •NEVER consume raw berries, bark, or leaves they contain cyanogenic glycosides
- •Always cook berries before consuming
- •May stimulate immune system caution with autoimmune conditions
- •Pregnant and nursing women should consult healthcare provider
- •Unripe berries are toxic