Elderberry is the dark purple berry of the European elder tree and is usually employed for medicinal purposes. The extract of the elderberry has conventionally been used both in Europe and America as a remedy against colds and fever, its different parts being used for various medicinal purposes. The juice of this plant has earned worldwide fame gradually. The fresh fruit and fruit juice is used in folk medicine to treat influenza, infections, sciatica, headaches, toothaches, pains of the heart, neuralgia, as a laxative and diuretic in Europe and America.
Nutritional Composition of Elderberry
| Component | Content (per 100g) | Additional Information |
| Water | 80g – 85g | – |
| Carbohydrates | 7g – 18g | – |
| Sugars | 5g – 12g | – |
| Dietary Fiber | 7g | 25% of daily recommended intake |
| Protein | 0.5g – 1g | – |
| Fat | 0.2g – 0.5g | – |
| Vitamin C | 6mg – 35mg | Up to 60% of daily recommended intake |
| Phenolic Acids | Present | Powerful antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress |
| Flavonols | Present (Quercetin, Kaempferol, Isorhamnetin) | Flowers contain 10 times more than berries |
| Anthocyanins | Present | Provides deep purple-black color with anti-inflammatory effects |
- Vitamin C: Each 100 grams of elderberries contains 6-35 mg of vitamin C, which accounts for up to 60% of the recommended daily intake.
- Dietary Fiber: Fresh elderberries provide 7 grams of fiber per 100 grams, which is about a quarter of the recommended daily intake.
- Phenolic Acids: These compounds are powerful antioxidants that help reduce damage caused by oxidative stress in the body.
- Flavonols: Elderberries contain the antioxidant flavonols quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin, with the flowers containing ten times more flavonols than the berries.
- Anthocyanins: These compounds give the berries their distinctive deep purple-black color and are potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties.
Proven Benefits of Elderberry
Relieves Cold and Flu Symptoms
Elderberry juice has been hyped as one of the most viable treatments for colds, fever and infections because it contains antiviral and anti-infective properties. Elderberry is beneficial against the flu since the herb alleviates symptoms, shortens the illness period and lessens reliance on cold medications. For example, an Israeli pilot reportedly regained his strength within 1 to 2 days after taking elderberry extract upon the onset of severe cold symptoms.
Excellent Source of Antioxidants
During normal metabolism, there is a continuous release of reactive molecules; their accumulation in the body up to a certain level can cause oxidative stress and diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cancers. Antioxidants-which naturally exist in foods and include specific vitamins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids-may prevent chronic diseases.
The flowers, fruits, and leaves of the elder tree are rich in antioxidants. For instance, it was determined that the antioxidant capacity of elderberry anthocyanins was 3.5 times higher compared to vitamin E. In one study, 15 different berries were compared, and in another, types of wines were compared. Elderberry was found to be one of the most effective antioxidants.
Promotes Heart Health
Elderberries may have a positive effect on certain markers of heart and vascular health. Studies indicate that elderberry juice can reduce blood fat levels and lower cholesterol. Additionally, diets rich in flavonoid compounds (such as anthocyanins) have been found to lower the risk of heart disease.
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