Elderberries and COVID: Potential treatment in the making?

In the previous post, we looked into some of the well-known uses and benefits of elderberries, with the relieving of flu symptoms being one of them. Now, researchers from East Kent hospitals are now looking into harnessing these same benefits for the treatment of COVID-19 symptoms. 

Under the purview of UK's National Health Service (NHS), the trial, which began in January, aims to investigate whether elderberries, specifically Sambucol's Black Elderberry liquid, have the potential to reduce certain COVID-19 symptoms which are rather similar to a flu's. 

According to pharmacist Shabir Daya, elderberry extract has long been recognized for its ability to inhibit viral infections, and it is hoped that this same property includes inhibiting COVID-19 as well. In addition, elderberries are very nutritious as they contain the necessary minerals and vitamins to support the body when infected.

Jessica Evans, the trial's director, said that a previous study showed that those who took elderberry extract showed significant improvements in their flu symptoms within two days, compared to the six-day period among those who didn't. She also adds, "“We will be testing whether there are similar effects in people in the community who have tested positive for Covid-19 and are experiencing symptoms, to see if the severity and length of time can be reduced.”

The trial will be administered among 200 patients, where they will be given either the elderberry liquid or a placebo.

Sources: https://www.ekhuft.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/news-centre/latest-news/east-kent-researchers-trial-black-elderberry-liquid-as-a-treatment-for-covid-19/  

https://www.getthegloss.com/news/elderberry-liquid-to-treat-covid

Disclaimer: This is not an endorsement of elderberry extract as a guaranteed treatment for COVID-19, but a sharing of ongoing research into COVID-19. Please continue to adhere to existing SOPs (mask wearing, hand washing, social distancing).