If you follow superfood hype, you\u2019ve probably heard of elderberry. This mysterious food has a reputation for healing acne, curing colds and flu, and even preventing COVID-19. But\u00a0can it back up those claims?<\/p>\n
Elderberry – M<\/strong>sterious Superfood, or Marketing Hoax?<\/strong><\/p>\n Elderberry, as the name suggests, is a berry grown from the Sambucus tree. In the summer, these trees blossom brilliant star-shaped flowers. Because the Sambucus tree grows fast, its foliage is a popular landscaping border. But its blueish black berries are its true claim to fame.<\/p>\n Both the Sambucus tree flowers and berries are edible but must be cooked first before consumption. In raw form, the berries are toxic and can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.<\/p>\n Today, you can find this beloved berry in nearly any physical form, from syrups to powders to gummies to tablets. Its rich, dark color and pretty name add to its intrigue, and its cross-cultural influence spans from Indiginous peoples to Europeans to many nations of Asia. Even ancient Egyptians turned to these berries to help improve complexion and soothe burns.<\/p>\n How Elderberry Became Popular\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Despite its trendiness in modern culture, elderberry has been touted as a mega-food for nutritional and medicinal use for centuries. Its European origin began in Scandinavia and spread throughout the world from there. Some ailments it\u2019s been used for include:<\/p>\n So, what\u2019s true and what\u2019s folklore? <\/em><\/p>\n Benefit #1: Immunity<\/strong><\/p>\n Arguably the biggest draw to the elderberry market is its alleged immunity boost. Prior studies have shown that elderberries show signs of antioxidant and antiviral properties and may reduce the severity and longevity of cold and flu symptoms. Other studies have shown an apparent link to elderberry easing upper respiratory issues. While some experts suggest that more research is needed, many people claim that elderberry does help ease these ailments.<\/p>\n\n