In an era marked by a growing interest in holistic wellness and a preference for natural solutions, the popularity of herbal supplements and remedies has surged. Many individuals are turning to ancient traditions and folk wisdom to seek alternatives or complementary options to conventional medicine.
Throughout history, many have still been confused about the difference between elderberry vs pokeberry health benefits. It’s crucial to emphasize that despite their striking visual similarities, pokeberry and elderberry plants are distinct from each other.
What Is Elderberry?
Elderberry, scientifically classified as elderberry bush (Sambucus nigra), is a deciduous shrub within the Adoxaceae family. The elder plant, which also yields elderflowers, is where the elderberry is derived.
Elderberries grow in regions of Europe, North America, and parts of Asia; this plant showcases petite, deep purple to black berries renowned for their culinary and medicinal properties.
The elderberry plant yields several well-known products, including elderflower wine and elderberry syrup.
Possible Health Benefits Of Elderberry
Elderberries have various substances and compounds that might offer various impacts on health. While the fruit is best used in jams and sauces, it can be poisonous if eaten raw. From elderberry flowers to elderberry leaves, let’s look at some of their health benefits:
1. Relieving Cold and Flu Symptoms
A review1 suggested that elderberries could offer antioxidant and antiviral effects. However, it’s important to note that the review’s authors emphasized the need for further research in this area.
In a study2, 60 individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms were administered 15 ml of elderberry syrup four times daily. There was a significant improvement in their symptoms four days earlier than those who received clinical treatment.
Additionally, in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, researchers investigated the potential of elderberry extract in averting cold-like symptoms among individuals following air travel. Participants were administered tablets comprising 300 mg of elderberry extract combined with 150 mg of rice flour, taken twice daily for 10 days before embarking on their travels. The trial found that using elderberry before and after overseas travel led to a shorter common cold duration and reduced symptoms among travelers, without any adverse effects3.
2. Minimize the Appearance of Wrinkles
Elderberry fruit is rich in flavonoids, suggesting potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These attributes can shield healthy cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, which are implicated in various skin issues.
Elderberries are rich in vitamin A. Furthermore, the ANA suggests that elderberries have the potential to offer skin-soothing benefits, reduce the visibility of age spots, and potentially prevent or minimize the formation of wrinkles4.
3. Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants comprise naturally occurring compounds found in various foods, encompassing vitamins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, which possess the capacity to counteract reactive molecules. Consuming diets rich in antioxidants could prevent chronic diseases5,6.
The elderberry plant’s flowers, fruits, and leaves are a rich source of antioxidants. Notably, among the anthocyanins present in the berries, one exhibits an astonishing 3.5 times the antioxidant potency of vitamin E6,7.
Possible Risks Of Elderberry
Although elderberry shows promise regarding potential benefits, it’s essential to be aware of associated risks when consuming it. The elderberry plant, including its bark, unripe berries, and seeds, contains trace amounts of compounds known as lectins. Excessive consumption of lectins can lead to stomach-related issues.
Furthermore, the elderberry plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, which, under specific conditions, can release cyanide. Cyanide is a toxin in other foods like apricot seeds and almonds. Therefore, it’s crucial to exercise caution and moderation when using elderberry-based products and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about its consumption8,9.
What Is Pokeberry?
The poke root (Phytolacca americana) is a blossoming shrub featuring distinctive red-pink stems and dark-purple berries. The pokeweed plant is poisonous to humans. Poke berries are the most toxic part.
This poisonous plant originates from the southwestern and eastern parts of the United States but thrives nationwide. Additionally, it can be found in South America, Europe, and Asia.
Other names of poke root include:
- American Nightshade
- American Scoke
- Pokeweed
- Pokeberry
- Inkberry
Possible Health Benefits Of Pokeberry
In the past, poke root found its way into various applications, including cuisine, herbal medicine, and fabric dyeing, and even contributed to wine production. However, it’s essential to note that the entire plant is toxic to humans, necessitating specific cooking methods to render it safe.
While laboratory and animal studies have suggested potential medicinal advantages of poke root as an herbal remedy, it’s essential to highlight the absence of human research, which means there needs to be concrete evidence supporting its potential benefits for people.
1. Pokeweed Berries as Cancer Treatment
Scientists are looking into a substance called pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP) found in poke root. PAP can harm cells, leading to their demise.
An experiment conducted on lab animals in 200310 hinted that PAP might also harm breast cancer cells. This potential effect may be due to its impact on cells with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors, a category that includes specific human breast cancer cells.
Another study from 200411 produced similar findings. However, their results have not been confirmed in human trials.
2. Help with Oral Diseases
Poke roots might possess antibacterial qualities. A 2014 laboratory study12 on animals found that extracts from poke roots were effective in eliminating bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay. The researchers suggested that poke root might work by blocking essential enzymes in the bacteria.
Possible Risks Of Pokeberry
The entire poke root plant is harmful to people, with its berries being the most toxic part. Be aware that poke roots can poison your pets, like dogs and other animals. To stay safe, ensure your pets stay away from this plant.
If you consume or use poke root orally or topically, it can lead to the following side effects:
- Rapid Heart Rate
- Low Blood Pressure
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach Cramps
Several Uses Of Pokeweed Plant
Due to its poisonous properties, it is crucial never to ingest poke root unless prepared correctly.
- Pook Root Tea: This is made by steeping dried poke root in hot water for several minutes.
- Poke Root Oil: It can be made with various carrier oils, such as olive oil.
- Poke Root Salve: It is made by infusing oils and beeswax with poke root.
Elderberry vs Pokeberry Health Benefits
Between wild plants and their ripe berries, comparing elderberry and pokeberry reveals the fascinating diversity of nature’s medicinal properties.
Incorporating these wild plants into your holistic health approach can be a rewarding journey, but always remember the importance of proper identification and preparation, and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure they align with your specific health needs.
