Sambucus ebulus (Elderberry) Fruits Modulate Inflammation and Complement System Activity in Humans.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pharmacology
• Human Nutrition

Background:

• Sambucus ebulus (SE) fruits are traditionally used for immune support and gastrointestinal health.
• Scientific evidence for SE's effects on human immune response mechanisms is lacking.
• This study investigates the immunomodulatory potential of SE fruit infusion in healthy individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of Sambucus ebulus fruit infusion in healthy human volunteers.
• To assess changes in immune markers and inflammatory status following a 4-week intervention.
• To identify key anthocyanins responsible for the observed effects.

Main Methods:

• Fifty-three healthy volunteers participated in a 4-week intervention with SE fruit infusion.
• Blood samples were analyzed for complete blood count, total protein, and inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, hs-CRP, C3, C4, IL-8).
• Anthocyanin profiling of SE samples was performed using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions were observed in Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNFα), Interleukin-8 (IL-8), C3, and C4 levels.
• Specific reductions in inflammatory markers and complement proteins were noted in both men and women.
• Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels showed a slight decrease in the overall group and in women.

Conclusions:

• Sambucus ebulus fruit intake demonstrates significant immune-modulatory activity in healthy humans.
• The intervention led to a decrease in pro-inflammatory status and complement system activity.
• SE fruits, rich in anthocyanins like cyanidin-3-O-galactoside, show potential as natural immune modulators.