Benefits of Elderberry

While the general public may know Elder as an herb that may help to support the immune system, Herbalists know that this plant is much more complex than that. Both the flowers and the berries are used in Herbalism, each having their own unique benefits and offerings.

In this post we will be focusing on the berry or the Elder plant and all of the benefits it has to offer.

As we enter the last months of the year and back to school season, we might start thinking more and more about our immune health and how to boost our immunity so that our bodies have what they need to fight off those pesky invaders.

I think for most people, one of the first herbs that comes to mind for immune support is Elderberry. The berries just so happen to ripen and be ready to harvest in late August and early September, right around the time the kids head back to school and when seasonal support is needed most.

While elderberry is an amazing herb to help support our immune health, it also has lots of other beneficial properties as well.

Different Types of Elderberry

Elders are part of the Sambucus plant family. There are many different species of elder and they grow worldwide. In herbalism we tend to use the Black Elderberry, Sambucus nigra but Sambucus canadensis is a species native to North America and has the greatest similarities to Sambucus nigra and is used by herbalists in the same way. Blue Elderberry, Sambucus Cerulea is the native species on the west coast of the United states where I live in California and can also be used interchangeably with Black Elderberry.

For the sake of this article we will be talking about Black Elderberry, Sambucus nigra, that is most commonly used in Herbal Medicine.

The Good Stuff

Elderberries' dark black-bluish color is due to anthocyanins which are a type of flavonoids, which are abundant in elderberries and are considered the active constituent of the fruit. Elderberries also contain polyphenols, antioxidants and a variety of vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B9, C, Zinc, Iron, Copper, Calcium, Potassium and Magnesium. Because of this, elderberries are a very nourishing and beneficial herb, for any time of year.

What Makes Elderberry Unique?

Elderberries are known for their distinctive properties and have been traditionally used in various remedies. While they are not a solution for every ailment, some studies suggest that when taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, elderberries may help alleviate discomfort in adults. The unique phytochemical compounds found in elderberries may interact with certain elements that affect our health, potentially supporting the body’s response. Taken at the first sign of symptoms, elderberries may assist in reducing discomfort and promoting quicker recovery.

Elderberry For Immune Support

Elderberries rich phytochemical profile makes it a wonderful herb to help support the immune system at any time. Elderberry can be taken daily during colder months to help support seasonal wellness. It can also be taken before events with large groups of people. In this way Elderberry can be used as a tonic that may help support the immune system.

Elderberry to Support an Optimal Inflammatory Response & Cardiovascular Health

Elderberries, like all berries, have antioxidants. And elderberries' deep bluish-black color is a tell tale sign that these berries are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants may help to rid the body of free radicals and oxidation, which can build up over time. Antioxidants can help to promote an optimal inflammatory response.

Antioxidants may also be beneficial for our cardiovascular system.

When is the best time to take Elderberry?

We all know those first signs when we start to feel like something is off. It really is best taken as soon as you are feeling those first signs of discomfort.

If you don’t catch it at the start, it is also beneficial to take elderberries during an illness which may help reduce the symptoms and duration.

If you are wanting to take advantage of elderberries nutrient profile, that includes supporting the cardiovascular system and supporting a healthy inflammatory response in the body, elderberry can be taken regularly throughout the year.

Can you take Elderberry everyday?

The simple answer? Yes. Elderberry is safe to take daily, and is especially helpful during colder months to help support our immune system. Would I recommend taking it 365 days a year? Maybe not, but adding it to a weekly or monthly routine is perfectly safe.

Is Elderberry Safe for Everyone?

Elderberry is one of those herbs that is also considered a food and is generally safe for most people. That being said, everyone is unique, and so we can not know how each person will react to herbs in general.

Different sources cite different things when it comes to Elderberry being safe in pregnancy and lactation. Some say it is completely safe, others say it is not. I think for the most part this is because of a lack of clinical data being done on this particular demographic in general. Elderberry has been used through the ages and safely consumed by pregnant and lactating women. Use caution or talk to a knowledgeable practitioner before using elderberry if you are pregnant or lactating.

Elderberry is considered safe for children. That being said, if you are using an elderberry syrup that contains honey, DO NOT give it to children under the age of 1 years old. As honey is not safe for children under 1 and can potentially cause infantile botulism.

Elderberry is considered an immunomodulator, which means they have the ability to work on the immune system. People who have autoimmune diseases should use caution when taking elderberry. If you do have an autoimmune disease and want to take elderberry I would suggest speaking with a qualified practitioner before doing so.

Where can you get great quality certified organic elderberries?

With fall and winter upon us, this is the perfect time to give your immune system the extra support it’s looking for by adding elderberries into your daily routine. Here at Starwest Botanicals, we provide Certified Organic Elderberries, so you can wholeheartedly trust the quality of the product you receive. Start shopping with confidence and peace of mind today. Are you looking to add Elderberries to your business? Apply for a wholesale account here to save 40% off retail prices. 

Danielle Caster is a Clinical Herbalist who uses her knowledge of herbalism along with a holistic approach to support women in achieving a more embodied way of living. Through one on one Herbal Wellness Sessions, Danielle curates custom holistic protocols, addressing the root cause and restoring balance to the body. Danielle finds joy in learning the ancient wisdom of the plants and is passionate about sharing that knowledge with others to bring a little ease in this busy modern world.

A mother of three and avid gardener. Danielle also enjoys growing a multitude of medicinal plants and vegetables, spending time with her family, traveling and reading.

For more information about working with Danielle please visit her website or follow her on Instagram.