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American Black Elderberry, Common Ellderberry, Sauco,Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis ‘s leaves …Lá của cây Cơm Cháy …#5


Image by Vietnam Plants & The USA. plants

Taken on July 1, 2012 in Waco city, Texas state, Southern of America

Vietnamese named : Cơm Cháy, Cơm Cháy tròn.

Common names : American black elderberry, Common elderberry, Black elder, Mexican elderberry, Common elder, Elderberry, Tapiro, Sauco.

Scientist name : Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis (L.) R. Bolli.

Synonyms : Sambucus caerulea Raf. var. mexicana (C. Presl ex DC.) L.D. Benson, orth. var.

Sambucus canadensis L.

Sambucus canadensis L. var. laciniata A. Gray

Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehder

Sambucus cerulea Raf. var. mexicana (C. Presl ex DC.) L.D. Benson

Sambucus mexicana C. Presl ex DC.

Sambucus orbiculata Greene

Sambucus simpsonii Rehder ex Sarg.

Family : Caprifoliaceae – Honeysuckle family.

Kingdom : Plantae – Plants

Subkingdom : Tracheobionta – Vascular plants

Superdivision : Spermatophyta – Seed plants

Division : Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants

Class : Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons

Subclass : Asteridae

Order : Dipsacales

Genus : Sambucus L. – elderberry

Species : Sambucus nigra L. – black elderberry

Subspecies : Sambucus nigra L. ssp. canadensis (L.) R. Bolli – American black elderberry

**** english.vista.gov.vn/english/st_documents_abstract/200408… : Cơm Cháy tròn. : [Nghiên cứu tác dụng hạ đường huyết của hoa cơm cháy tròn (Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis (L.) R. Bolli]

**** vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/H%E1%BB%8D_Ng%C5%A9_ph%C3%BAc_hoa

**** timcay.com/cay-c%C6%A1m-chay

**** english.vista.gov.vn/english/st_documents_abstract/200408…

________________________________________________________________

**** plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=sanic4

**** www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SANIC4

**** www.fireflyforest.com/flowers/2299/sambucus-nigra-ssp-can…

**** www.wildflowersoftexas.com/sambucus-nigra-ssp-canadensis….

**** www.enature.com/fieldguides/detail.asp?recNum=TS0229

**** www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/elderberry-002880.htm

Elderberry

Introduction:

Elderberry, or elder, has been used for centuries to treat wounds, when applied to the skin. It is also taken by mouth to treat respiratory illnesses such as cold and flu. In many countries, including Germany, elder flower is used to treat colds and flu. Some evidence suggests that chemicals in elder flower and berries may help reduce swelling in mucous membranes, such as the sinuses, and help relieve nasal congestion. Elder may have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties.

Elderberry also contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties and may help prevent damage to the body’ s cells. However, very few studies have been done in humans, so researchers don’t know how effective elder may be.

There are several species of elder, but Sambucus nigra, or European elder (also called black elder), is the one used most often for medicinal purposes. Avoid dwarf elder (Sambucus ebulus), which can be toxic. Use a trusted preparation of elder because raw or unripe fruit — as well as the leaves, seeds, and bark — contain a chemical related to cyanide, which is poisonous.

Alternative Names:

Elder; Elder flower

Plant Description:

European elder is a large shrub or small tree that grows up to 30 feet tall in wet or dry soil in a sunny location. Elder is native to Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia, but it has become widespread in the United States. Deciduous leaves grow in opposite pairs and have five to seven leaflets. Flowers are white and flat-topped with five primary rays. Berries are green, turning red, then black when ripe.

Parts Used:

The berries and flowers are used as medicine. Berries must be cooked before they are taken. Raw berries contain a chemical similar to cyanide.

Medicinal Uses and Indications:

Coldsand Flu

Elderberry may help treat cold and flu symptoms by reducing congestion and possibly making you sweat more. One study suggested that using a standardized elderberry extract, Sambucol, could shorten the duration of flu by about 3 days. Sambucol also contains other herbs plus vitamin C, so no one knows whether elderberry by itself would have the same effect.

Another preliminary study found that a lozenge with elderberry extract (ViraBLOC) helped reduce flu symptoms when taken within 24 hours of symptoms starting. In the lab, one study suggested that elderberry could kill the H1N1 virus (“swine fluâ€) in test tubes, but researchers don’t know whether it would be effective against H1N1 in people.

Bacterial Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)

One study examined the use of a proprietary product, Sinupret, to treat bacterial sinusitis along with an antibiotic (doxycycline or Vibramycin) and a decongestant. People who took the combination did better compared to those who did not take Sinupret. However, Sinupret contains other herbs along with elderberry, so no one knows whether taking elderberry alone would work as well.

Available Forms:

Elderberry is available as a liquid, syrup, and tincture, as well as in capsule and lozenge forms. Dried elder flower is usually standardized to at least 0.8% flavonoids. Sambucol is standardized to 38% elderberry extract for adults and 19% for children. Sinupret contains 18 mg of elder flower.

How to Take It:

Pediatric

Do not give elderberry or any product containing elder to a child without first talking to your pediatrician.

Adult

Sinupret: 2 tablets taken three times a day for bacterial sinusitis

Sambucol: 4 tbsp. a day for three days for colds and flu

Tea: Steep 3 – 5 g dried elder flower in 1 cup boiling water for 10 – 15 minutes. Strain and drink three times per day.

Precautions:

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should should herbs only under the supervision of a health care provider.

Do not use unripe or uncooked elderberries. They may be poisonous.

Elderberry appears to have few side effects when used properly for short periods of time (up to 5 days).

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take elderberry.

If you have an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, you should ask your doctor before taking elderberry, as it may stimulate the immune system.

Possible Interactions:

If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should talk to your health care provider before taking elderberry:

Diuretics (water pills) — Diuretics help the body get rid of excess fluid and increase the amount of urine your body makes. Elderberry may also act as a diuretic, so taking it along with a diuretic could make that drug stronger and raise your risk of dehydration. Diuretics include:

Hydrochlorothiazide

Bumetanide (Burinex)

Furosemide (Lasix)

Amiloride (Midamor)

Metolazone (Zaroxolyn)

Diabetes medications — Elderberry may lower blood sugar levels. If you are also taking drugs for diabetes, taking elderberry may increase your risk of developing hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar.

Chemotherapy — Elderberry may interact with some chemotherapy drugs. If you are undergoing chemotherapy, ask your oncologist before taking any herb or supplement.

Laxatives — Elderberry may act like a laxative and should not be taken at the same time as other laxatives.

Theophylline (TheoDur) — Elderberry may reduce levels of theophylline, a drug taken for asthma and other respiratory conditions. That could make the drug not work as well.

Drugs that suppress the immune system — Because elderberry may stimulate the immune system, it could interfere with medications taken to suppress the immune system. These medications include corticosteroids (prednisone) and medications used to treat autoimmune diseases. People with organ transplants should also avoid elderberry.

Reviewed last on: 1/11/2012

Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

Supporting Research

Gray AM, Abdel-Wahab YH, Flatt PR. The traditional plant treatment, Sambucus nigra (elder), exhibits insulin-like and insulin-releasing actions in vitro. J Nutr. 2000;130(1):15-20.

Kong F. Pilot clinical study on a proprietary elderberry extract: efficacy in addressing influenza symptoms. Online Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics. 2009;5:32-43.

Roschek B, Fink RC, McMichael MD, et al. Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro. Phytochemistry. 2009;70:1255-61.

Roxas M, Jurenka J. Colds and influenza: a review of diagnosis and conventional, botanical, and nutritional considerations. Altern Med Rev. 2007 Mar;12(1):25-48. Review.

Uncini Manganelli RE, Zaccaro L, Tomei PE. Antiviral activity in vitro of Urtica dioica L., Parietaria diffusa M. et K. and Sambucus nigra L. J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Apr 26;98(3):323-7.

Vlachojannis JE, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. A systematic review on the sambuci fructus effect and efficacy profiles. Phytother Res. 2010 Jan;24(1):1-8. Review.

Wright CI, Van-Buren L, Kroner CI, Koning MM. Herbal medicines as diuretics: A review of the scientific evidence. J Ethnopharmacol. 2007 Oct 8;114(1):1-31.

Zakay-Rones Z, Thom E, Wollan T, Wadstein J. Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections. J Int Med Res. 2004;32:132-40.

**** www.fruit.cornell.edu/mfruit/elderberries.html : Click on link to read more, please …

Elderberries are popular for their unusual taste in pies, jellies, and jams. They are occasionally used in winemaking.

………………………………………………………………

Diseases and Insects

Elderberry plants are generally free of pests, which makes them great for landscape plantings. Powdery mildew is a problem in some years, especially when it affects the fruit. Cane borers occasionally cause damage, but are usually not present in large numbers. Pruning out infested canes is the best remedy for home gardeners.

American Black Elderberry, Common Ellderberry, Sauco,Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis ‘s flowers …. Tràng hoa của cây Cơm Cháy ….#10


Image by Vietnam Plants & The USA. plants

Hoa Cơm Cháy rất nhỏ có mùi thơm nhẹ nhàng.

Very tiny flowers with softly fragrant.

Taken on July 6, 2012 in Waco city, Texas state, Southern of America .

Vietnamese named : Cơm Cháy, Cơm Cháy tròn.

Common names : American black elderberry, Common elderberry, Black elder, Mexican elderberry, Common elder, Elderberry, Tapiro, Sauco.

Scientist name : Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis (L.) R. Bolli.

Synonyms : Sambucus caerulea Raf. var. mexicana (C. Presl ex DC.) L.D. Benson, orth. var.

Sambucus canadensis L.

Sambucus canadensis L. var. laciniata A. Gray

Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehder

Sambucus cerulea Raf. var. mexicana (C. Presl ex DC.) L.D. Benson

Sambucus mexicana C. Presl ex DC.

Sambucus orbiculata Greene

Sambucus simpsonii Rehder ex Sarg.

Family : Caprifoliaceae – Honeysuckle family.

Kingdom : Plantae – Plants

Subkingdom : Tracheobionta – Vascular plants

Superdivision : Spermatophyta – Seed plants

Division : Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants

Class : Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons

Subclass : Asteridae

Order : Dipsacales

Genus : Sambucus L. – elderberry

Species : Sambucus nigra L. – black elderberry

Subspecies : Sambucus nigra L. ssp. canadensis (L.) R. Bolli – American black elderberry

**** english.vista.gov.vn/english/st_documents_abstract/200408… : Cơm Cháy tròn. : [Nghiên cứu tác dụng hạ đường huyết của hoa cơm cháy tròn (Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis (L.) R. Bolli]

**** vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/H%E1%BB%8D_Ng%C5%A9_ph%C3%BAc_hoa

**** timcay.com/cay-c%C6%A1m-chay

**** english.vista.gov.vn/english/st_documents_abstract/200408…

________________________________________________________________

**** plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=sanic4

**** www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SANIC4

**** www.fireflyforest.com/flowers/2299/sambucus-nigra-ssp-can…

**** www.wildflowersoftexas.com/sambucus-nigra-ssp-canadensis….

**** www.enature.com/fieldguides/detail.asp?recNum=TS0229

**** www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/elderberry-002880.htm

Elderberry

Introduction:

Elderberry, or elder, has been used for centuries to treat wounds, when applied to the skin. It is also taken by mouth to treat respiratory illnesses such as cold and flu. In many countries, including Germany, elder flower is used to treat colds and flu. Some evidence suggests that chemicals in elder flower and berries may help reduce swelling in mucous membranes, such as the sinuses, and help relieve nasal congestion. Elder may have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties.

Elderberry also contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties and may help prevent damage to the body’ s cells. However, very few studies have been done in humans, so researchers don’t know how effective elder may be.

There are several species of elder, but Sambucus nigra, or European elder (also called black elder), is the one used most often for medicinal purposes. Avoid dwarf elder (Sambucus ebulus), which can be toxic. Use a trusted preparation of elder because raw or unripe fruit — as well as the leaves, seeds, and bark — contain a chemical related to cyanide, which is poisonous.

Alternative Names:

Elder; Elder flower

Plant Description:

European elder is a large shrub or small tree that grows up to 30 feet tall in wet or dry soil in a sunny location. Elder is native to Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia, but it has become widespread in the United States. Deciduous leaves grow in opposite pairs and have five to seven leaflets. Flowers are white and flat-topped with five primary rays. Berries are green, turning red, then black when ripe.

Parts Used:

The berries and flowers are used as medicine. Berries must be cooked before they are taken. Raw berries contain a chemical similar to cyanide.

Medicinal Uses and Indications:

Coldsand Flu

Elderberry may help treat cold and flu symptoms by reducing congestion and possibly making you sweat more. One study suggested that using a standardized elderberry extract, Sambucol, could shorten the duration of flu by about 3 days. Sambucol also contains other herbs plus vitamin C, so no one knows whether elderberry by itself would have the same effect.

Another preliminary study found that a lozenge with elderberry extract (ViraBLOC) helped reduce flu symptoms when taken within 24 hours of symptoms starting. In the lab, one study suggested that elderberry could kill the H1N1 virus (“swine fluâ€) in test tubes, but researchers don’t know whether it would be effective against H1N1 in people.

Bacterial Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)

One study examined the use of a proprietary product, Sinupret, to treat bacterial sinusitis along with an antibiotic (doxycycline or Vibramycin) and a decongestant. People who took the combination did better compared to those who did not take Sinupret. However, Sinupret contains other herbs along with elderberry, so no one knows whether taking elderberry alone would work as well.

Available Forms:

Elderberry is available as a liquid, syrup, and tincture, as well as in capsule and lozenge forms. Dried elder flower is usually standardized to at least 0.8% flavonoids. Sambucol is standardized to 38% elderberry extract for adults and 19% for children. Sinupret contains 18 mg of elder flower.

How to Take It:

Pediatric

Do not give elderberry or any product containing elder to a child without first talking to your pediatrician.

Adult

Sinupret: 2 tablets taken three times a day for bacterial sinusitis

Sambucol: 4 tbsp. a day for three days for colds and flu

Tea: Steep 3 – 5 g dried elder flower in 1 cup boiling water for 10 – 15 minutes. Strain and drink three times per day.

Precautions:

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should should herbs only under the supervision of a health care provider.

Do not use unripe or uncooked elderberries. They may be poisonous.

Elderberry appears to have few side effects when used properly for short periods of time (up to 5 days).

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take elderberry.

If you have an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, you should ask your doctor before taking elderberry, as it may stimulate the immune system.

Possible Interactions:

If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should talk to your health care provider before taking elderberry:

Diuretics (water pills) — Diuretics help the body get rid of excess fluid and increase the amount of urine your body makes. Elderberry may also act as a diuretic, so taking it along with a diuretic could make that drug stronger and raise your risk of dehydration. Diuretics include:

Hydrochlorothiazide

Bumetanide (Burinex)

Furosemide (Lasix)

Amiloride (Midamor)

Metolazone (Zaroxolyn)

Diabetes medications — Elderberry may lower blood sugar levels. If you are also taking drugs for diabetes, taking elderberry may increase your risk of developing hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar.

Chemotherapy — Elderberry may interact with some chemotherapy drugs. If you are undergoing chemotherapy, ask your oncologist before taking any herb or supplement.

Laxatives — Elderberry may act like a laxative and should not be taken at the same time as other laxatives.

Theophylline (TheoDur) — Elderberry may reduce levels of theophylline, a drug taken for asthma and other respiratory conditions. That could make the drug not work as well.

Drugs that suppress the immune system — Because elderberry may stimulate the immune system, it could interfere with medications taken to suppress the immune system. These medications include corticosteroids (prednisone) and medications used to treat autoimmune diseases. People with organ transplants should also avoid elderberry.

Reviewed last on: 1/11/2012

Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

Supporting Research

Gray AM, Abdel-Wahab YH, Flatt PR. The traditional plant treatment, Sambucus nigra (elder), exhibits insulin-like and insulin-releasing actions in vitro. J Nutr. 2000;130(1):15-20.

Kong F. Pilot clinical study on a proprietary elderberry extract: efficacy in addressing influenza symptoms. Online Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics. 2009;5:32-43.

Roschek B, Fink RC, McMichael MD, et al. Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro. Phytochemistry. 2009;70:1255-61.

Roxas M, Jurenka J. Colds and influenza: a review of diagnosis and conventional, botanical, and nutritional considerations. Altern Med Rev. 2007 Mar;12(1):25-48. Review.

Uncini Manganelli RE, Zaccaro L, Tomei PE. Antiviral activity in vitro of Urtica dioica L., Parietaria diffusa M. et K. and Sambucus nigra L. J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Apr 26;98(3):323-7.

Vlachojannis JE, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. A systematic review on the sambuci fructus effect and efficacy profiles. Phytother Res. 2010 Jan;24(1):1-8. Review.

Wright CI, Van-Buren L, Kroner CI, Koning MM. Herbal medicines as diuretics: A review of the scientific evidence. J Ethnopharmacol. 2007 Oct 8;114(1):1-31.

Zakay-Rones Z, Thom E, Wollan T, Wadstein J. Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections. J Int Med Res. 2004;32:132-40.

**** www.fruit.cornell.edu/mfruit/elderberries.html : Click on link to read more, please …

Elderberries are popular for their unusual taste in pies, jellies, and jams. They are occasionally used in winemaking.

………………………………………………………………

Diseases and Insects

Elderberry plants are generally free of pests, which makes them great for landscape plantings. Powdery mildew is a problem in some years, especially when it affects the fruit. Cane borers occasionally cause damage, but are usually not present in large numbers. Pruning out infested canes is the best remedy for home gardeners.

American Black Elderberry, Common Ellderberry, Sauco,Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis ‘s flowers close up …. Chụp gần hoa của cây Cơm Cháy ….#11


Image by Vietnam Plants & The USA. plants

Hoa Cơm Cháy rất nhỏ có mùi thơm nhẹ nhàng.

Very tiny flowers with softly fragrant.

Taken on July 6, 2012 in Waco city, Texas state, Southern of America .

Vietnamese named : Cơm Cháy, Cơm Cháy tròn.

Common names : American black elderberry, Common elderberry, Black elder, Mexican elderberry, Common elder, Elderberry, Tapiro, Sauco.

Scientist name : Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis (L.) R. Bolli.

Synonyms : Sambucus caerulea Raf. var. mexicana (C. Presl ex DC.) L.D. Benson, orth. var.

Sambucus canadensis L.

Sambucus canadensis L. var. laciniata A. Gray

Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehder

Sambucus cerulea Raf. var. mexicana (C. Presl ex DC.) L.D. Benson

Sambucus mexicana C. Presl ex DC.

Sambucus orbiculata Greene

Sambucus simpsonii Rehder ex Sarg.

Family : Caprifoliaceae – Honeysuckle family.

Kingdom : Plantae – Plants

Subkingdom : Tracheobionta – Vascular plants

Superdivision : Spermatophyta – Seed plants

Division : Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants

Class : Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons

Subclass : Asteridae

Order : Dipsacales

Genus : Sambucus L. – elderberry

Species : Sambucus nigra L. – black elderberry

Subspecies : Sambucus nigra L. ssp. canadensis (L.) R. Bolli – American black elderberry

**** english.vista.gov.vn/english/st_documents_abstract/200408… : Cơm Cháy tròn. : [Nghiên cứu tác dụng hạ đường huyết của hoa cơm cháy tròn (Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis (L.) R. Bolli]

**** vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/H%E1%BB%8D_Ng%C5%A9_ph%C3%BAc_hoa

**** timcay.com/cay-c%C6%A1m-chay

**** english.vista.gov.vn/english/st_documents_abstract/200408…

________________________________________________________________

**** plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=sanic4

**** www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SANIC4

**** www.fireflyforest.com/flowers/2299/sambucus-nigra-ssp-can…

**** www.wildflowersoftexas.com/sambucus-nigra-ssp-canadensis….

**** www.enature.com/fieldguides/detail.asp?recNum=TS0229

**** www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/elderberry-002880.htm

Elderberry

Introduction:

Elderberry, or elder, has been used for centuries to treat wounds, when applied to the skin. It is also taken by mouth to treat respiratory illnesses such as cold and flu. In many countries, including Germany, elder flower is used to treat colds and flu. Some evidence suggests that chemicals in elder flower and berries may help reduce swelling in mucous membranes, such as the sinuses, and help relieve nasal congestion. Elder may have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties.

Elderberry also contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties and may help prevent damage to the body’ s cells. However, very few studies have been done in humans, so researchers don’t know how effective elder may be.

There are several species of elder, but Sambucus nigra, or European elder (also called black elder), is the one used most often for medicinal purposes. Avoid dwarf elder (Sambucus ebulus), which can be toxic. Use a trusted preparation of elder because raw or unripe fruit — as well as the leaves, seeds, and bark — contain a chemical related to cyanide, which is poisonous.

Alternative Names:

Elder; Elder flower

Plant Description:

European elder is a large shrub or small tree that grows up to 30 feet tall in wet or dry soil in a sunny location. Elder is native to Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia, but it has become widespread in the United States. Deciduous leaves grow in opposite pairs and have five to seven leaflets. Flowers are white and flat-topped with five primary rays. Berries are green, turning red, then black when ripe.

Parts Used:

The berries and flowers are used as medicine. Berries must be cooked before they are taken. Raw berries contain a chemical similar to cyanide.

Medicinal Uses and Indications:

Coldsand Flu

Elderberry may help treat cold and flu symptoms by reducing congestion and possibly making you sweat more. One study suggested that using a standardized elderberry extract, Sambucol, could shorten the duration of flu by about 3 days. Sambucol also contains other herbs plus vitamin C, so no one knows whether elderberry by itself would have the same effect.

Another preliminary study found that a lozenge with elderberry extract (ViraBLOC) helped reduce flu symptoms when taken within 24 hours of symptoms starting. In the lab, one study suggested that elderberry could kill the H1N1 virus (“swine fluâ€) in test tubes, but researchers don’t know whether it would be effective against H1N1 in people.

Bacterial Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)

One study examined the use of a proprietary product, Sinupret, to treat bacterial sinusitis along with an antibiotic (doxycycline or Vibramycin) and a decongestant. People who took the combination did better compared to those who did not take Sinupret. However, Sinupret contains other herbs along with elderberry, so no one knows whether taking elderberry alone would work as well.

Available Forms:

Elderberry is available as a liquid, syrup, and tincture, as well as in capsule and lozenge forms. Dried elder flower is usually standardized to at least 0.8% flavonoids. Sambucol is standardized to 38% elderberry extract for adults and 19% for children. Sinupret contains 18 mg of elder flower.

How to Take It:

Pediatric

Do not give elderberry or any product containing elder to a child without first talking to your pediatrician.

Adult

Sinupret: 2 tablets taken three times a day for bacterial sinusitis

Sambucol: 4 tbsp. a day for three days for colds and flu

Tea: Steep 3 – 5 g dried elder flower in 1 cup boiling water for 10 – 15 minutes. Strain and drink three times per day.

Precautions:

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should should herbs only under the supervision of a health care provider.

Do not use unripe or uncooked elderberries. They may be poisonous.

Elderberry appears to have few side effects when used properly for short periods of time (up to 5 days).

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take elderberry.

If you have an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, you should ask your doctor before taking elderberry, as it may stimulate the immune system.

Possible Interactions:

If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should talk to your health care provider before taking elderberry:

Diuretics (water pills) — Diuretics help the body get rid of excess fluid and increase the amount of urine your body makes. Elderberry may also act as a diuretic, so taking it along with a diuretic could make that drug stronger and raise your risk of dehydration. Diuretics include:

Hydrochlorothiazide

Bumetanide (Burinex)

Furosemide (Lasix)

Amiloride (Midamor)

Metolazone (Zaroxolyn)

Diabetes medications — Elderberry may lower blood sugar levels. If you are also taking drugs for diabetes, taking elderberry may increase your risk of developing hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar.

Chemotherapy — Elderberry may interact with some chemotherapy drugs. If you are undergoing chemotherapy, ask your oncologist before taking any herb or supplement.

Laxatives — Elderberry may act like a laxative and should not be taken at the same time as other laxatives.

Theophylline (TheoDur) — Elderberry may reduce levels of theophylline, a drug taken for asthma and other respiratory conditions. That could make the drug not work as well.

Drugs that suppress the immune system — Because elderberry may stimulate the immune system, it could interfere with medications taken to suppress the immune system. These medications include corticosteroids (prednisone) and medications used to treat autoimmune diseases. People with organ transplants should also avoid elderberry.

Reviewed last on: 1/11/2012

Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

Supporting Research

Gray AM, Abdel-Wahab YH, Flatt PR. The traditional plant treatment, Sambucus nigra (elder), exhibits insulin-like and insulin-releasing actions in vitro. J Nutr. 2000;130(1):15-20.

Kong F. Pilot clinical study on a proprietary elderberry extract: efficacy in addressing influenza symptoms. Online Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics. 2009;5:32-43.

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**** www.fruit.cornell.edu/mfruit/elderberries.html : Click on link to read more, please …

Elderberries are popular for their unusual taste in pies, jellies, and jams. They are occasionally used in winemaking.

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Diseases and Insects

Elderberry plants are generally free of pests, which makes them great for landscape plantings. Powdery mildew is a problem in some years, especially when it affects the fruit. Cane borers occasionally cause damage, but are usually not present in large numbers. Pruning out infested canes is the best remedy for home gardeners.

Nice Cell Membrane photos