November/December 2008 Alternative Health
Flu Fighter: Black Elderberry to the Rescue

by Vicky Thompson

Flu season is here, and it's time to call in the natural flu fighters. Studies have shown that Sambucol, a black elderberry extract, appears to short-circuit the flu if taken when symptoms first appear.

In folk medicine, flowers from the black elder bush were used to ease flu symptoms, colds and sinus problems. In recent studies, 93 percent of flu patients given Sambucol were completely symptom-free within two days while those taking a placebo recovered in about six days. Also, the Sambucol group had no drowsiness, which is a downside of many over-the-counter flu treatments.

It's likely that antioxidants called flavonoids, which are contained in the black elderberry extract, stimulate the immune system. Other compounds in elderberry, called anthocyanins, have an anti-inflammatory effect and may reduce aches, pains and fever.

Sambucol is available at local health food stores in tinctures and syrups. Elderberry also is included in many herbal wellness capsules and pills.

Source: www.webmd.com.