Elderberry seems to be all the rage during cold and flu season, but why is it so highly regarded? Let’s
take a look at why you should aim to incorporate this complex little berry into your wellness toolkit.
Elderberries come from the European or black elder tree, a plant native to parts of Europe, Nort
America, Asia, and Northern Africa. The plant itself (leaves, bark, stem, and flowers) and raw, unripe
elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause Gl upset if ingested, so It’s important to
understand that these berries must be processed safely before consuming.
Despite the near-toxicity in their raw state, elderberries have been used in folk medicine around the world
for centuries.
We’re just now beginning to understand the science behind this humble little berry and why it can be so
effective in supporting the human immune system.
Elderberries are a great source of vitamins A, B and C, tocopherols, and amino acids, in addition to
strong bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonols, and anthocyanins, which are responsible for
the characteristic dark purple coloration. These last components are responsible for the strong antioxidant
qualities of elderberry. 
Research suggests that the high nutrient profile, combined with more bioavailable polyphenols,
significantly affects the immune system and has been shown to reduce the severity of respiratory
ailments, colds, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. Studies have also shown that elderberry
can be classified as having antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Further studies are needed to determine any potential drug interactions, so if you’re taking prescription
medications, it’s always advisable to speak with your physician before starting any natural supplements.
Elderberry has not been proven safe for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers.
For those who are interested in more detailed research, please check out this article from the Journal of
Functional Foods.
At Calming Hands and Massage, we sell Durham-based One Fungi’s Elderberry Mushroom Syrup—a
customer favorite.

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