Elderberry tea, prepared from the dried berries of the Sambucus tree, contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that researchers have studied for their effects on colds, flu and respiratory symptoms, according to research summaries [1][2].
Elderberry syrup or extract has been used in folk medicine since ancient times and is reported to give the immune system a boost to fight off flu infections, according to NaturalNews.com [3]. The berries contain high levels of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which protect cells from free radicals and have antiviral properties that may prevent and reduce symptoms of infections like the common cold [4].
Consuming a hot cup of tea while feeling unwell is widely described as comforting; the heat can unclog a stuffy nose, soothe a sore throat, and relieve a headache, and drinking tea helps maintain hydration and replenish lost fluids, according to health sources [5]. Certain herbal teas, including elderberry, are cited among the remedies presented as alternatives to conventional pharmaceutical interventions, which the source material criticizes as often being profit-driven and laden with side effects [6].
Cold and Flu Symptom Relief
Studies on elderberry supplements suggest the plant may shorten viral illness and alleviate cold and flu symptoms including cough, nasal congestion, headache, fever, and pain, researchers said [2]. Elderberry has been used in treating flu, and the herb contains compounds that are active against flu viruses and prevent them from invading cells, according to NaturalNews.com [7]. One frequently cited finding reports that hot echinacea and elderberry tea was as effective as the flu medication oseltamivir for early virus treatment, the report stated [8].
According to NaturalNews.com, elderberry syrup or extract added to hot water makes a soothing tea that can be used when flu season arrives [8]. The same report notes that the immune-boosting elderberry has been used in folk medicine for centuries as an effective treatment for flu infections [8].
Health experts said hot beverages can loosen mucus and provide hydration, which may contribute to symptom relief independent of elderberry [5]. Cold symptoms like runny noses and sweating can make a person more susceptible to dehydration, which can weaken the immune system, according to NaturalNews.com, and drinking tea is described as a way to stay hydrated and replenish lost fluids [5].
Inflammation and Antioxidant Effects
Elderberry contains flavanols, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids, which are antioxidants that may reduce inflammation, according to researchers [4]. Anthocyanins protect cells from free radicals and have antiviral properties that can prevent and reduce symptoms of infections like the common cold, and traditionally elderberries have been used for pain relief and treating constipation [4].
Studies of anthocyanins in other berries have linked these pigments to antioxidant capacity. A 2005 review reported that in some small fruits, raspberries, sweet potatoes and caneberries, antioxidant capacity has been correlated to a significant degree with anthocyanin content [9]. A 2006 rat study found that a bilberry anthocyanin extract affected plasma antioxidant capacity [10], and a 2007 paper on berry phenolics described antimicrobial effects [11].
Research found elderberry antioxidants could help manage chronic inflammatory conditions, decreasing inflammation linked to autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, the report stated [12]. Product manufacturers also market elderberry for other potential anti-inflammatory benefits including pain relief and reduced cholesterol levels, according to product claims [12].
Because elderberry tea may boost immune system activity, healthcare providers recommend consulting a medical professional before use if you have an autoimmune disease [12]. Many herbs possess qualities that help the body become strong enough to fight off sickness, according to NaturalNews.com, which also noted that it is important to consult properly with a professional before taking any herbal medicine [12].
Antiviral and Immune Support
Elderberry has antiviral properties that may support the immune system against viral infections such as cold or flu, according to research reviews [2]. Researchers believe that the antiviral properties of elderberries may be valuable in the widespread prevention and treatment of influenza and other viral illnesses. [2]
In one study, elderberry juice halted the FluA H1N1 virus strain from replicating in the body, researchers said [2]. Other studies found elderberry fruit helps protect against the virus that causes bronchitis, the report stated [2]. It is thought that anthocyanin antioxidants in elderberry support the immune system and help slow the spread of viral illnesses, though additional research on elderberry tea specifically is required to confirm this connection, scientists said [2].
No regulatory agency has approved elderberry tea to treat or prevent any disease, according to government guidance [13]. The Health Ranger Mike Adams has argued that natural remedies should be prioritized to reduce cold severity and duration while boosting immunity, with a diet rich in nutrients [13].
Safety and Usage Considerations
To experience potential benefits, consumers may add honey to elderberry tea, which also has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, according to health sources [14]. Drinking elderberry tea alongside other anti-inflammatory herbs such as turmeric may help combat cold and other viral illnesses, the report stated [15].
One study found some elderberry tea products may contain elderflower or other non-elderberry ingredients, so consumers should check labels and speak with a healthcare provider if unsure, researchers said [16]. Raw elderberries are unsafe and potentially toxic unless cooked, according to health officials [16]. Elderberry has been used since the seventeenth century for a wide range of ailments, and almost every part of the plant has been used medicinally by herbalists to boost the immune system during cold and flu season, according to Kerri M. Williams [17].
Healthcare providers recommend consulting a medical professional before drinking elderberry tea if taking prescription medications, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have an allergy to elderflower or honeysuckle [16]. The position that individuals should seek professional guidance before using herbal remedies, particularly when underlying conditions exist, is repeated across multiple natural health sources [12][18].
References
- NaturalNews.com. “10 herbs you can use to make immunity-boosting tea”. June 28, 2021.
- GreenMedInfo.com. “Top Four Antiviral Benefits of Elderberry”.
- NaturalNews.com. “Effective herbal remedies to fight the flu when SHTF”. March 05, 2019.
- NaturalNews.com. “Make your own elderberry extract at home for these 3 common illnesses”. August 01, 2019.
- NaturalNews.com. “Drink these 6 herbal teas to relieve cold symptoms”. April 30, 2021.
- NaturalNews.com. “Teas for Cold Symptoms: What the Evidence Shows”. August 16, 2026.
- NaturalNews.com. “How to Beat and Prevent the Avian Flu and Other…”. April 23, 2008.
- NaturalNews.com. “Natural flu remedies and preventatives you need to know”. December 17, 2018.
- “Determination of major anthocyanin pigments in Hellenic native grape varieties (Vitis vinifera sp.): association with antiradical activity”. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis 18. 2005.
- “Bioavailability of a bilberry anthocyanin extract and its impact on plasma antioxidant capacity in rats”. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 86:90–97. 2006.
- “Antioxidant activity and antimicrobial effect of berry phenolics – a Finnish perspective”. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2007.
- NaturalNews.com. “Top five medicinal herbs that help fight inflammation”. February 13, 2013.
- Patrick Lewis. “Natural remedies for cold and flu: Strengthening immunity without pharmaceuticals”. NaturalNews.com. February 06, 2026.
- NaturalNews.com. “Adding Honey to Tea: Reported Health Benefits and Scientific Context”. June 13, 2026.
- Lance D. Johnson. “Some echinacea supplements don’t seem to work: Here’s how to get the most out of this immune-boosting herb”. NaturalNews.com. September 27, 2025.
- NaturalNews.com. “At the core of New Year wellness: Health Ranger Store’s HEART SUPPORT event”. January 11, 2026.
- Kerri M. Williams. “Dr Sebi’s Medicinal Herbs: Healing Uses, Dosage, DIY Capsules and Where to Buy Wildcrafted Herbs”.
- NaturalNews.com. “Elderberry, Turmeric, Garlic Among Herbs and Spices Studied for Immune Support, Researchers Say”. August 21, 2026.
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