Sambucus Nigra – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Composition And More

What is Sambucus Nigra?

Sambucus Nigra is a type of flowering plant from the family Adoxaceae, which comes from Europe. Sambucus Nigra is known by different names like elderberry, black elder, European elder, European elderberry, and European black elderberry. It grows in various environmental conditions, including both wet and dry fertile soils, primarily in sunny locations.

Sambucus Nigra plant is majorly grown as an ornamental shrub or small tree. Both the flowers and the berries have a long tradition of culinary use, primarily for cordial and wine. Although Sambucus Nigra is usually used in dietary supplements and traditional medicine.

Sambucus Nigra Chemical Constituents

The chemical makeup of Sambucus Nigra, commonly known as elderberry, is complex and varies based on several factors, including the type of elderberry, where it grows, how ripe it is, and the climate. In terms of carbohydrates, elderberries contain about 7.86% to 11.50% total sugars and 2.8% to 8.55% reducing sugars. The carbohydrates in elderberries also include dietary fiber, particularly pectin, pectic acid, protopectin, Ca-pectate, and cellulose.

Sambucus Nigra Preparation

Products made from Sambucus Nigra can be used in herbal teas, liquid forms, or combined with other herbs. Sambucus Nigra has been used as a natural medicine for various health conditions, such as colds and flu. Some studies suggest that using elderberry products at the first sign of symptoms may help relieve them and shorten the duration of the illness. However, there isn’t a strong scientific proof that elderberry should replace more established treatments.

• Drying and Grinding: The flowers of Sambucus Nigra can be dried and then ground into small pieces.
• Solvent Extraction: The plant material of Sambucus Nigra can be soaked in a solvent like ethanol to dissolve its compounds, creating a liquid extract.
• Water Extraction: Powdered elder flowers can be steeped in boiling water for 15 minutes, then filtered and mixed with distilled water.
• Maceration: Fresh flowers and leaves of Sambucus Nigra can be soaked in ethanol and methanol.

Sambucus Nigra Mother Tincture

Sambucus Nigra Mother Tincture, commonly known as elder, is a homeopathic medicine that works on the respiratory system. It is made from high-quality raw materials and extra neutral alcohol (ENA), which is a pure and premium form of alcohol, ensuring that it is free from impurities and better than other dilutions available. The key ingredients of Sambucus Nigra Mother Tincture are the plant extract from Sambucus Nigra, ethanol and water.

Here are some of the major benefits of Sambucus Nigra mother tincture:

• It helps cure dry nasal congestion in infants
• Treats swollen areas
• Useful for mental health issues
• Helpful for managing heat and sweating on the face
• Used for colic (abdominal pain)
• Treats frequent urination
• Helps with acute nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys)
• Assists with various respiratory problems

Benefits of Sambucus Nigra

Sambucus Nigra is well-known for its health benefits, especially when it comes to boosting the immune system and fighting off illnesses.

• Boosts Immunity: Sambucus Nigra contains antioxidants in large amounts and a variety of vitamins, with vitamin C being dominant which may help in boosting Immunity. It can be used to manage the discomfort of colds and flu.
• Supports Heart Health: It may assist with heart health, such as decreasing cholesterol levels in the blood and decreasing high blood pressure. Consequently, due to its relatively high antioxidant content, it is considered to be beneficial for the heart and blood vessels.
• Reduces Inflammation: Sambucus Nigra has anti-inflammatory constituents. Hence, it aids inflammation and pain in the body, which may work wonders for people who have arthritis.
• Promotes Healthy Skin: It also shields the skin against damage that results from exposure to sun and some pollutants in the environment. It may also be beneficial in improving skin texture and may actually help prevent the formation of wrinkles.

What Does Sambucus Nigra Treat?

Sambucus Nigra is a plant that has been used in herbal medicine for many years. It is known for treating a variety of health problems due to its natural healing properties.

• Colds and Flu: It helps reduce the severity and duration of symptoms like fever, cough, and sore throat.
• Sinus Infections: Sambucus Nigra can be helpful in treating sinus infections, as it reduces inflammation in the sinuses and helps with drainage.
• Inflammation: It is useful for treating conditions that involve swelling and pain, such as arthritis or joint pain.
• Skin Problems: Sambucus Nigra is sometimes used to treat minor skin problems like rashes, cuts, and burns. It has natural soothing properties that can help heal the skin and reduce irritation.
• Digestive Issues: It is used to treat mild digestive problems like constipation or upset stomach. It can have a gentle laxative effect, helping to improve digestion and relieve discomfort.

Sambucus Nigra Homeopathic Uses

Sambucus Nigra is widely used in homeopathic medicine to treat different health conditions.
Here are some common homeopathic medicine uses of Sambucus Nigra:

• Respiratory Problems: Homeopathic Sambucus Nigra is often used to treat breathing problems, especially in children. It is commonly used for medical conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and croup, where there is difficulty breathing or wheezing.
• Cough and Congestion: It also helps relieve tightness in the chest and loosens mucus, making coughing up easier.
• Night Sweats: In some cases, based on the research, homeopathic Sambucus Nigra is used to help with night sweats, which can occur in both children and adults. It helps reduce excessive sweating, making the person feel more comfortable at night.
• Skin Conditions: In homeopathy, Sambucus Nigra can be used to treat certain skin conditions, like rashes or swelling. Soothing the skin and reducing irritation or itching are also major roles.

Sambucus Nigra Dosage

The appropriate dosage of Sambucus Nigra can vary depending on the form in which it is taken and the condition being treated. The Sambucus Nigra syrup is commonly used to boost the immune system, especially during cold and flu seasons. 300 to 600 mg of Sambucus Nigra extract, taken 1 to 3 times a day.

Capsules of Sambucus Nigra are often taken for cold or flu symptoms and for general immune support. Homeopathic medicines are usually taken in small doses, such as 3 to 5 pellets of Sambucus Nigra 30C, 2 to 3 times a day, depending on the severity of symptoms. This form is often used for asthma, coughs, and blocked noses.

Consult a doctor before giving Sambucus Nigra to children, pregnant women, or those with underlying health conditions.

Sambucus Nigra Dosage For Adults

The appropriate dosage of Sambucus Nigra for adults depends on the form in which it is taken. Sambucus Nigra syrup is taken 1 to 2 teaspoons, 2 to 4 times a day. This is commonly used to support the immune system and to alleviate cold and flu symptoms.

Sambucus Nigra tincture for adults is consumed 30 to 40 drops, 3 times a day, diluted in water. Homeopathic Sambucus Nigra is often used for treating respiratory issues like asthma, blocked nose, and cough. Around 3 to 5 pellets, 2 to 3 times a day is the usual dosage for an adult.

It’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to ensure the dosage is appropriate for your needs, especially if you have any serious health conditions.

Sambucus Nigra Dosage For Children

The appropriate dosage of Sambucus Nigra for children varies depending on the form it is taken and the child’s age. Gummies are a child-friendly way to take Sambucus Nigra, often used for immune support.

Homeopathic Sambucus Nigra is used to treat respiratory problems like coughs, congestion, and blocked noses in children. Avoid giving Sambucus Nigra to children under 2 years old unless directed by a doctor. Always consult a pediatrician before starting any new remedy or supplement for children, especially those under 6.

Who Should Avoid Sambucus Nigra?

Sambucus Nigra is often used for its potential health benefits, particularly in boosting the immune system and treating colds and flu. However, certain individuals should avoid it, and there are potential side effects and risks to consider.

• Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: Due to insufficient research on the safety of Sambucus Nigra during pregnancy and lactation, it is advised not to
• consume it.
• Individuals with Autoimmune Conditions: Sambucus Nigra may stimulate the immune system, which could exacerbate symptoms in people suffering from autoimmune diseases.
• People with diabetes: Sambucus Nigra can affect blood sugar levels, so those with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar closely if using it.
• People on Immunosuppressive Medications: Sambucus Nigra is also used to enhance immune function. It could interfere with medications that suppress the immune system.
• Allergies: Individuals who are allergic to Sambucus Nigra or related plants should avoid using it.

What Are The Side Effects And Risks Of Using Sambucus Nigra?

• Gastrointestinal Issues: Consuming raw Sambucus Nigra plant, seeds, or unripe berries can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides.
• Allergic Reactions: In some rare cases, certain people may experience allergic responses, which can include skin rashes or respiratory issues.
• Interactions with Medications: Sambucus Nigra may interact with certain medications, particularly those that affect blood sugar or immune function.
• Overconsumption Risks: High doses of Sambucus Nigra may lead to toxicity, so it is important to adhere to recommended dosages.

References

• https://www.researchgate.net/publication/276264840_Elderberry_Sambucus_nigra_from_Natural_Medicine_in_Ancient_Times_to_Protection_against_Witches_in_the_Middle_Ages_-_a_Brief_Historical_Overview
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sambucus_nigra
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/sambucus-nigra
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7185606/
• https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/sambucus-nigra/
• https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.1079/cabicompendium.48259
• https://www.1mg.com/otc/sbl-sambucus-nigra-mother-tincture-q-otc338604?srsltid=AfmBOooOZdVtC2akzhC3I4RO0CwVBeaubT1T7kjg4ZmyNPiyYjjf_cQT&wpsrc=Google+Organic+Search

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