Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jan 02, 2026 1 hour, 59 minutes ago
Medical News: Elderberry, a plant long used in traditional remedies and everyday nutrition, is now attracting strong scientific interest for its potential role in protecting the heart. This
Medical News report covers the study that carefully reviewed existing laboratory, animal, and human research to understand how phytochemicals found in elderberry plants may support cardiovascular health in multiple ways.
This Medical News report highlights new research showing how elderberry phytochemicals may help protect heart health
The research was conducted by scientists from the Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Poland, who examined over one hundred previously published scientific studies.
Elderberry Species and Plant Parts Investigated
The review focused on two key elderberry species. The first is Sambucus nigra, commonly known as European or black elderberry, widely used in supplements, juices, and functional foods. The second is Sambucus williamsii, a species native to China and commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Researchers analyzed different parts of these plants, including fruits, flowers, leaves, bark, and processed products such as extracts, syrups, and juices.
Phytochemicals That Support Heart Health
Elderberries and elderflowers are rich in phytochemicals, particularly phenolic compounds such as anthocyanins and flavonoids. These compounds act as antioxidants, helping to reduce oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to heart disease and blood vessel damage.
In addition to antioxidants, elderberry contains dietary fiber, unsaturated fatty acids, phytosterols, and triterpenes. These components work together to help regulate cholesterol levels, support healthy blood flow, and reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
How Elderberry May Protect the Heart
The reviewed studies show that elderberry phytochemicals support cardiovascular health through several biological mechanisms. They reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are closely linked to high blood pressure and atherosclerosis. Some compounds also help blood vessels relax, improving circulation and lowering blood pressure.
Animal studies demonstrated reductions in bad LDL cholesterol, increases in good HDL cholesterol, and slower plaque buildup in arteries. Laboratory studies showed enhanced nitric oxide production, which helps maintain flexible and healthy blood vessels. Certain elderberry compounds also improved fat metabolism in the liver, reducing obesity related cardiovascular risks.
What Human Studies Show
Human clinical research remains limited but promising. Small studies suggest elderberry products are generally safe and may offer mild improvements in antioxidant status and cholesterol balance. However, researchers emphasize that elderberry should not replace prescribed heart medi
cations and that larger long term clinical trials are still required.
Safety and Proper Preparation
Raw or unprocessed elderberry parts can be toxic, but proper cooking and processing remove these harmful compounds. When prepared correctly, elderberry fruits and flowers are considered safe and are approved for use in foods and supplements by health authorities in the United States and Europe.
Conclusions
Overall, the evidence reviewed suggests that elderberry fruits and flowers are rich sources of heart protecting phytochemicals. These natural compounds help reduce inflammation, lower oxidative stress, improve cholesterol balance, and support healthy blood vessels. While laboratory and animal studies are strong, the researchers stress that more large-scale human trials are essential before elderberry can be officially recommended for cardiovascular disease prevention or treatment.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/27/1/460
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