Meta Information

ID:elderberry

Name:Elderberry

Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

• Sambucus nigra
• Elder

Active Compound

Anthocyanins, Flavonoids, Phenolic Acids

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Delivery

Route:

oral

Scope:

• systemic

Regulatory Status

• us:dietary_supplement
• eu:food_supplement

Indication

Focus:

symptom_management

Description:

Short-term symptomatic relief for common cold and flu.

Typical Protocol

• Standard dosages range from 150-300 mg of elderberry extract, standardized to anthocyanins, taken 2-4 times daily for a few days at the onset of cold or flu symptoms.

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

10

High Cost:

30

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Monthly cost for common elderberry extract supplements, typically not insurance-covered.

Summary

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract contains anthocyanins and other flavonoids known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While widely used for immune support during seasonal illness, its direct role in extending healthspan or significantly impacting aging pathways is not established by robust human evidence. It primarily functions to modulate immune responses to viral infections.

Purpose

Immune support, symptom management during acute illness, not direct healthspan extension.

Card Summary

Elderberry is a natural extract used for acute immune support, mainly for cold and flu symptoms.

Drug Class

null

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

2.5

Justification:

Limited direct healthspan impact; primarily acute immune support.

Evidence

Grade:

B

Score:

5.5

Justification:

Some human trials for cold/flu, but not for healthspan endpoints.

Safety

Score:

3

Justification:

Generally safe for short-term use; raw berries are toxic.

Flags

• Raw or unripe elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides and are toxic, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Potential for interaction with immunosuppressant drugs due to immune-stimulating effects.
• Individuals with autoimmune diseases should use with caution.

Verdict

Useful for acute immune support, but not a healthspan intervention.