Elderberry
A dark berry used for colds and flu symptoms.
Benefits
- Antioxidant
- studied for cold/flu symptom relief
How it's used
- Syrups, gummies and lozenges
Cautions & interactions
- Raw/unripe berries and other plant parts are toxic — must be cooked/processed
- Caution with immunosuppressants
Forms & sources
- Cooked berry syrup and extracts
How to read the evidence for botanicals
"Traditionally used for" describes historical use — it is not the same as proven effectiveness. Most botanical products have laboratory or small-trial evidence at best, and few have the large clinical trials that medicines require. In the UK, a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) mark means a product meets quality standards, not that it has been proven to work.
Before taking any botanical: tell your doctor or pharmacist — herb–drug interactions are common (St John's Wort alone interacts with contraceptives, antidepressants, anticoagulants and transplant medication). Avoid botanicals in pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or alongside prescription medicines unless a clinician has confirmed it is safe.