Herbs have been valued for centuries as natural remedies for a wide range of ailments, including viral infections. Thanks to their concentrated plant compounds, many herbs can help protect from virus and support overall health.
It’s no wonder that natural health practitioners often turn to plants for prevention and treatment for viruses. That said, it’s important to remember that some of these remedies have limited research in humans, so they should always be used wisely.
One standout example is the elderberry—a small, nutrient-rich berry celebrated not only for its tart, refreshing taste but also for its potential to protect yourself and boost the humans immune system. Elderberries are commonly used in jams, syrups, wines, and desserts, making them both delicious and functional.
The black elder shrub grows widely across Europe and North America. Its flowers and fruits have long been used to make seasonal jams and beverages. Harvesting occurs in late summer or early fall when the berries are fully ripe. Timing is crucial because unripe or raw elderberries—and other parts of the plant like leaves, bark, flowers, roots, and buds—contain compounds that can produce hydrocyanic acid, a type of cyanide.
When properly prepared, elderberries are safe to eat and are praised for their ability to prevent diseases and protect against virus, making them a favorite natural medicine for viral infection.
Elderberries vs. Viruses
Research from the University of Sydney highlights elderberries’ antiviral potential. According to the study, elderberries can actively prevent viruses from entering human cells and reduce the spread of infection.
Golnoosh Torabian, Ph.D., one of the study’s co-authors, explained that elderberries stop viruses from attaching to and infecting cells. In the study, commercially grown elderberries were processed into a serum and tested at multiple stages of the influenza virus cycle—both before infection and during active infection.
The results were striking. The phytochemicals in the elderberry serum had a mild preventive effect just before the virus reached the cells. But once infection began, these compounds significantly hindered the virus from multiplying, effectively preventing infection.
Blocking the viral cycle at different stages is particularly valuable because it increases the chances of stopping the infection, according to Peter Valtchev, Ph.D., co-author of the research.
Additionally, the elderberry serum appeared to strengthen the human immunity virus response. It triggered the release of cytokines—chemical messengers that help the immune system communicate between cells and create a stronger defense against pathogens.
Why Elderberries Work
The antiviral powers of elderberries are largely attributed to anthocyanidins, the plant pigments they contain. Beyond fighting viruses, these compounds also provide antioxidant protection, helping protect yourself and support overall humans immune system function.
In short, elderberries aren’t just a flavorful addition to your diet—they’re a natural ally in medicine for viruses, working on multiple fronts to protect against virus, strengthen human immunity virus, and keep your cells healthy and resilient.
