What is elderberry?

Elderberry (Sambucus spp; S nigra is one of the more commonly used species in research) is a shrub, formerly classed in the Caprifoliaceae family but now recognized to be in the Adoxaceae. Species of Sambucus are known to grow on most continents, with the exception of Oceania and Antarctica. Both elderflowers and elderberries are consumed for food and traditional medical purposes.^[1] Since elderberry shrubs have become naturalized in so many locations, they have traditional uses across many cultures. Two of the more popular uses for elderberries have been in the prevention of flu or colds and in immune stimulation.^[2] The berries themselves are known to contain relatively high amounts of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds such as anthocyanins and flavonols.^[3] Elderberries also contain nutrients such as B vitamins, ascorbic acid, folic acid, potassium, and fructose.^[4]