Holunder: Natural remedy for colds
Holunder: Natural remedy for colds
In the middle of the cold season, many are looking for effective means to strengthen the immune system and combat the ubiquitous cold viruses. Elderberry, a plant that has been used in folk medicine for centuries, is becoming increasingly the focus of scientific research. The versatile berries of the elderberry contain a wealth of bioactive connections with potential health advantages. This article throws an analytical light on the chemical composition of elderberry and its immunomodulating effects, highlights the previous research results on the antiviral properties of holundere extracts and finally offers well -founded recommendations for dosing and using elderberry products. Go on a scientific journey with us, which not only summarizes the traditional applications, but also the modern knowledge on the promising effects of the elderberry against colds.
The chemical composition of elderberry and its effects on the immune system
elderberries contain a number of bioactive connections known for their health -promoting properties. These compounds include antioxidants such as anthocyans, flavonoids and vitamin C. These chemical components significantly contribute to strengthening the immune system. Anthocyans, which give the berries their characteristic dark color, have an anti -inflammatory and antioxidant effect.
- anthocyane: protect cells from free radicals and support the immune system by reducing inflammation.
- flavonoids: act as antioxidants and have antiviral properties that can support the immune system.
- vitamin C: is essential for general immune defense and promoting skin barrier function as part of the first line of defense against pathogens.
A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods in 2019 shows that elderberry berry extracts can inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses, including influenza virus. This antiviral effect is partially attributed to the flavonoids contained in the berries. Through their ability to prevent viral replication, elderberry products can strengthen the immune system in defense against infectious diseases.
In terms of the immune system, various research work shows that elderberry berry extracts can stimulate the production of cytokines. Cytokines are signal proteins that are responsible for communication between the cells during the immune response. A balanced production of cytokines is crucial for an effective immune response.
| anthocyane | antioxidative, anti -inflammatory |
| flavonoids | antioxidative, antiviral |
| vitamin C | supports the immune defense |
Although the existing data is promising, it is important to do further research in order to understand the exact mechanisms, support and improve the immune system through the elderberries and their extracts. Future studies could help to further clarify the potential role of elderberry as a supplement to the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.
Investigation of the antiviral properties of holundere extracts against cold viruses
The elderberry (Sambucus Nigra) has long been known for its medical properties, especially when it comes to combating viral diseases such as the cold. Scientific studies have shown that extracts from the elderberry have antiviral properties that are effective against various cold viruses. These antiviral effects are mainly due to the flavonoids contained in elderberries, including quercetin and anthocyanes, which have a direct antiviral effect against the viruses.
In vitro studies, it has confirmed that Holundere extracts have the ability to inhibit the increase in human influenza viruses. One of the key elements of this antiviral effect is the inhibition of viral replication. HolundereXtracts intervene in the early phases of the viral replication cycle, which restricts the spread of the virus within the host.
In addition, in vivo studies were able to show the effectiveness of elderberry extracts in the treatment of cold and flu-like symptoms in humans. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study from the year has shown that patients who received elderberry berry extract experienced a significantly shorter duration of illness and milder symptoms than the placebo group.
- Quercetin and anthocyane: The key components in elderberry that have antiviral properties.
- inhibition of viral replication: an important mechanism through which holundere extracts antiviral work.
- clinical studies: prove the effectiveness of holundere extracts in the treatment of flu and cold symptoms.
Despite these promising results, it is important to carry out further research to understand the exact mechanisms through which holundere extreme has their antiviral effect. The safety and effectiveness of the use of elderberry products in larger clinical studies should also be examined more closely.
recommended dosage and application of elderberry products for the prevention and treatment of colds
When using elderberry products for the prevention and treatment of cold symptoms, dosage is crucial in order to be able to use the positive effects effectively without risking unwanted side effects. The dosage can vary depending on the form of the elderberry product - be it as a juice, capsules, tincture or tea.
- juice: for elderberry juice is generally recommended to take 1 to 2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) for the prevention of colds a day. In the case of existing cold symptoms, the dosage can be increased to up to 4 tablespoons (60 ml) per day, divided into two doses.
- capsules/tinctures: When using elderberry capsules or tinctures, the dosage recommended by the manufacturer should be observed, since the concentration of the active ingredients can vary greatly. Typically, the recommended daily dose is 300 to 600 mg.
- tea: For a elderflower tea it is recommended to pour 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried elderflower with approx. 250 ml of hot water over and let it pull for 10 to 15 minutes. This tea can be drunk 2 to 3 times a day to support the immune system during the cold season.
It is important to note that there is no unit size for the dosage and the individual reaction to elderberry products can vary. In addition, the quality of the elderberry product is crucial for its effectiveness. Products that are made from the whole berry or flower and contain little to no additives are more effective.
| dosage in cold symptoms | ||
|---|---|---|
| juice | 15-30 ml daily | 60 ml daily, divided into 2 cans |
| capsules/tinctures | according to the manufacturer (approx. 300-600 mg daily) | after manufacturer or in consultation with a specialist |
| tea | 2-3 cups daily | 2-3 cups daily |
In the review, it can be clearly seen that elderberry is more than just a traditional home remedy for colds. The detailed examination of its chemical composition reveals an impressive palette of immune -system -strong components, while the antiviral properties specifically offer a scientific basis for its effectiveness against cold viruses. The proposed dosage and application of elderberry products also underline the practical relevance of this findings for the prevention and treatment of colds. However, it is important to promote further research in order to understand the exact mechanisms through which elderberry supports the immune system and combat virus diseases. Nevertheless, the current state of research offers a solid basis for the recognition of elderberry as a valuable, natural means in health care and combating colds.
sources and further literature
references
- Zakay-Rones, Z., Varsano, N., Zlotnik, M., Manor, O., Regev, L., Schlesinger, M., & Mumcuoglu, M. (1995). Inhibition of Several Strains of influenza virus in vitro and reduction of symptoms by an Elderberry Extract (sambucus nigra L.) During an outbreak of influenza b panama. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine , 1 (4), 361–369.
- Kong, F. (2009). Pilot Clinical Study on a Proprietary Elderberry Extract: Efficacy in Addressing Influenza Symptoms. Online Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics , 5, 32-43.
Scientific studies
- Porter, R.S., & Bode, R.F. (2017). A review of the antiviral Properties of Black Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra L.). Phytotherapy Research , 31 (9), 1298-1306. Discuss the antiviral properties of elderberry extracts.
- Tiralongo, E., Wee, S.S., & Lea, R.A. (2016). Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air Travelers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutrients , 8 (4), 182.
further literature
- Schwartz, L. & Knödler, M. (2018). medicinal plants in naturopathic use . Springer. A comprehensive work on the application and effect of medicinal plants, including elderberry.
- Barak, V., Halperin, T., & Kalickman, I. (2001). The effect of sambucol, a Black Elderberry-Based, Natural Product, On the Production of Human Cytokines: I. Inflammatory Cytokines. European Cytokine Network , 12 (2), 290-296. Examines the effect of sambucol on the production of human cytokines.
- Hawkins, J., Baker, C., Cherry, L., & Dunne, E. (2019). Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) Supplementation Effectively Treats Upper Respiratory Symptoms: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trials. complementary therapy in Medicine , 42, 361–365. A meta-analysis on the effectiveness of black elderberry in the treatment of upper respiratory symptoms.