There is quite a discussion brewing about using elderberry during COVID-19. Here are some posts supporting both sides. There is no definitive answer. Do your diligent research and move on...
The issue with the use of elderberry as part of one's herbal protocol for COVID-19 seems to focus on inciting a cytokine storm. Here are some links I've found interesting:
National Center for Biotechnology Information(one of my favorite sites for research)
Are there herbs that may help to reduce a cytokine storm? You betcha! These have been shown to help out in this regard. However, if you reach the point of thinking you are experiencing said storm, you should probably be hospitalized already! However, I figure, why not include some early on in the protocol as a preventative. I'm including calendula in much of my protocol - it is a gentle yet powerful flower, great for supporting both the immune and lymph systems.
Herbs that may help reduce a cytokine storm, from my notes, so I'm not sure of the source - sorry...
(Please correct me if you disagree or find research to the contrary)
Calendula
Curcumin (found in turmeric)
Elecampane
Garlic
Ginger
Green tea
Mullein flower
Red Sage, Salvia milthiorrhiza
Skullcap (I prefer Baikal Skullcap, but some herbalists indicate American Skullcap is also useful)
The issue with the use of elderberry as part of one's herbal protocol for COVID-19 seems to focus on inciting a cytokine storm. Here are some links I've found interesting:
National Center for Biotechnology Information (one of my favorite sites for research)
Dr. Ananya Mandal, MD
Frankly, if one reaches this point during COVID-19, they should already have been checked out at their clinic and likely already be in the hospital!
Are there herbs that may help to reduce a cytokine storm? You betcha! These have been shown to help out in this regard. However, if you reach the point of thinking you are experiencing said storm, you should probably be hospitalized already! However, I figure, why not include some early on in the protocol as a preventative. I'm including calendula in much of my protocol - it is a gentle yet powerful flower, great for supporting both the immune and lymph systems.
Herbs that may help reduce a cytokine storm, from my notes, so I'm not sure of the source - sorry...
(Please correct me if you disagree or find research to the contrary)
Calendula
Curcumin (found in turmeric)
Elecampane
Garlic
Ginger
Green tea
Mullein flower
Red Sage, Salvia milthiorrhiza
Skullcap (I prefer Baikal Skullcap, but some herbalists indicate American Skullcap is also useful)
St. John's Wort
My good friend and great herbalist, Paige Swanson, wrote an article about her view of elderberry use with COVID-19. View here.