Inhibitory activity of a standardized elderberry liquid extract against clinically-relevant human respiratory bacterial pathogens and influenza A and B viruses
2011

Elderberry Extract's Effects on Bacteria and Viruses

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Christian Krawitz, Mobarak Abu Mraheil, Michael Stein, Can Imirzalioglu, Eugen Domann, Stephan Pleschka, Torsten Hain

Primary Institution: Justus-Liebig-University

Hypothesis

Can a standardized elderberry extract inhibit the growth of respiratory bacterial pathogens and influenza viruses?

Conclusion

Rubini elderberry liquid extract is effective against both human pathogenic bacteria and influenza viruses.

Supporting Evidence

  • The elderberry extract reduced bacterial growth by over 70% at a 10% concentration.
  • The extract showed antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus pyogenes and Branhamella catarrhalis.
  • Elderberry extract inhibited the propagation of influenza A and B viruses in cell culture.

Takeaway

Elderberry extract can help fight off colds and flu by stopping bad germs from growing.

Methodology

The study used bacterial growth experiments and cell culture assays to test the extract's antimicrobial and antiviral effects.

Potential Biases

Potential funding bias from BerryPharma AG, the supplier of the elderberry extract.

Limitations

The study does not explore the long-term effects or the exact mechanisms of action of the elderberry extract.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6882-11-16

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