Elder
Sambucus
Sambucus, commonly known as elderberry, is a plant with traditional uses primarily found in Eastern Europe and Anatolia. In Transylvania, it has been traditionally used for respiratory conditions among German- and Ladin-speaking communities, though specific details of its use are not well-documented. Contemporary pharmacology supports some of these traditional practices, particularly the potential benefits of Sambucus nigra in reducing the severity and duration of respiratory tract infections. Studies indicate that Sambucus nigra is one of several plants, including Echinacea spp., Pelargonium sidoides, Curcuma longa, and Zingiber officinale, which may help manage symptoms associated with these conditions. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Sambucus, though further research is needed to fully substantiate its traditional uses.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study documented the use of Sambucus nigra among other plants for respiratory conditions in Transylvania, with some uses supported by contemporary pharmacology.
- The study found that while minority languages persist, traditional plant-related practices have declined among German- and Ladin-speaking communities in the Italian Alps.
- The study found that Sambucus nigra is among 110 Anatolian medicinal plants associated with treating respiratory conditions, though no specific health effect was evaluated.
- Sufficient evidence suggests that Echinacea spp., Pelargonium sidoides, Sambucus nigra, Curcuma longa, and Zingiber officinale may help reduce the severity and duration of respiratory tract infections.
- The study found that black elderberry extract provided neuroprotection in streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic rats by modulating miRNA expression and oxidative stress markers.
Frequently asked questions
What is Elder?
Elder (Sambucus) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Elder?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Elder; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study documented the use of Sambucus nigra among other plants for respiratory conditions in Transylvania, with some uses supported by contemporary pharmacology.
How strong is the evidence for Elder?
The strongest finding for Elder carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Elder safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Elder in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Elder interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Elder in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Elder?
Elder is also known as: бузина, Sureau.
Is Elder a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Neuroprotective effects of black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract through the role of miR-124-5p and miR-144-5p in a streptozotocin-induced Type 2 diabetic rat model. literature abstract metadata
- T2 When minority language persistence is not enough: the decline of foraging knowledge in German- and Ladin-speaking Alpine communities of Northern Italy. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A Review of the Properties of Clinically Evaluated Plant-Derived Agents in the Treatment of Respiratory Infections. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Traditional Respiratory Remedies From Anatolia: Ethnobotanical Insights and Bioactive Properties. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ethnopharmacobotanical investigation of plants used for respiratory disorders in Transylvania, Romania. literature abstract metadata