Sambucus nigra · Berry and flower
Elderberry
Traditional + some evidenceHippocrates is said to have called the elder his 'medicine chest.' Its dark berries have been cooked into syrups and jams in European homes for centuries.
Traditionally used for
- Traditionally used as a cold-season syrup
- Elderflower used in folk teas and cordials
What research says
NCCIH notes some small studies on elderberry and flu-like symptoms, but the evidence is limited and not definitive.
How people use it
- Always cook berries; simmer into syrup with honey
- Elderflower cordial or tea
Safety and interactions
- Raw or unripe berries, leaves and stems can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
- Cook berries before eating
- Not enough is known about safety in pregnancy
Always talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using elderberry as a supplement, especially with prescription medicine, in pregnancy or before surgery.
Sources
Reviewed October 25, 2026. Evidence tier: Traditional + some evidence: Long traditional use; human research is limited, small or mixed. How we rank evidence.