Elderberry is often touted for preservation and protection of the immune system in general.[1][2] Some researchers believe that elderberry’s capacity for immunoregulation occurs through modulation of cytokine release and activity; indeed, three clinical studies have demonstrated that certain preparations containing elderberry extract may stimulate a healthy immune response through cytokine release and activity in healthy individuals. It should be noted, however, that these were all industry-sponsored studies of proprietary blends.[3][4][5]
Evidence also exists to support the use of elderberry extract from the Williams elderberry, Sambucus williamsii var. coreana, for gingivitis and halitosis. When used in a mouthwash preparation for five days by healthy individuals, it reduced indicators of plaque and gingivitis,[6] and reduced halitosis and halitosis-causing bacteria, more than placebo[7]
Topical application of elderberry extract from the dwarf elder,Sambucus ebulus, has also been evaluated in comparison to standard of care anti-inflammatory ointments.[8][9] In one four-week study of the effects of this elderberry extract on eczema, twice-daily topical application of the extract was found to be no better than hydrocortisone at improving eczema severity or healing rates. However, the participants using the elderberry extract had significantly higher quality-of-life scores at the end of the trial than those using the standard of care.[8] In another four-week study of the effectiveness of this extract for knee osteoarthritis, topical application of the elderberry extract was found to be superior to 1% diclofenac gel at reducing pain and symptom severity, with minimal risk of side effects.[9]
Finally, there is some in vitro evidence that extracts of high-anthocyanin berries, including elderberry, may serve to decrease the growth of tumors. Further human-based clinical studies are needed to confirm this evidence, though.[10]