What Elderberry Tea Can Do for Your Immunity and Overall Health

Elderberry tea is made from dried elderberries, a dark purple berry from European or black elderberries (Sambucus nigra). In traditional medicine, elderberries are used to treat cold and flu symptoms. Today, the elderberry is a common home remedy for upper respiratory infections and is available in several forms, including extracts, lozenges and teas.

Research shows that elderberry may shorten the duration of colds. Elderberry may also reduce the intensity of cold and flu symptoms, including:

• Cough
• Nasal congestion
• Headache
• Fever
• Pain

A 2020 study found that elderberry extract or lozenges reduced cold symptoms by 50% in two to four days. The treatment was most effective when taken from the first days of the illness.

A 2023 study looked specifically at elderflower tea and found that the tea relieved early cold symptoms. Hot tea in general can also help manage cold symptoms by hydrating and relieving sore throats and congestion.

Elderberry has an antiviral effect, meaning it helps the immune system fight infectious viruses, such as the flu. One study found that an elderberry juice blend containing additional compounds stopped a strain of the flu virus (FluA H1N1) from replicating in the body. This reduces the spread of the virus in the body.

Other research has shown that elderberry may protect against the virus that causes bronchitis, or inflammation of the airways.

Further research is needed to understand whether elderberry tea would have the same antiviral effects as the fruit or juice.

Elderberries are rich in antioxidant compounds like flavanols, anthocyanins and phenolic acids. Antioxidants protect against chronic diseases fighting harmful free radicals and preventing oxidative stress.

Elderberry compounds also have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. This can help relieve inflammation during respiratory illnesses. Some research also suggests that these compounds may help manage chronic inflammatory diseases and body-wide inflammation in people with autoimmune diseases.

Elderberry has the potential to interact with several medications. Talk to your doctor before drinking elderberry tea if you are taking medication.

Additionally, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take elderberry, as no research supports the safety of elderberry in these groups or in infants.

Certain ingredients can add flavor and additional immune benefits to your elderberry tea. These include:

• Dear
• Orange or lemon
• Ginger
• Cinnamon sticks