There is not enough evidence to say that elderberry prevents colds. Research on specific extracts also cannot be used to claim that Clariberry syrup prevents or treats illness.
Clariberry is sold as a food and is not a licensed natural health product. This page updates an older article that drew broader conclusions from the research than the evidence supports.
Prevention and symptom research are different questions
A study of symptoms in people who are already ill does not show that a product prevents infection. Likewise, a result for a particular preparation or dose cannot automatically be applied to a different recipe. These distinctions matter when reading headlines about elderberry.
The overall evidence remains limited
The NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health describes only a small number of studies on elderberry and respiratory infections. It does not establish broad health benefits or justify treating elderberry foods as medicine.
Source: NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Elderberry.
Individual studies can produce different results
A randomized placebo-controlled trial published in 2020 did not find a benefit in its primary outcome for patients with influenza. This is one reason to read the overall evidence rather than rely on a single positive headline. The trial did not test Clariberry.
Read the randomized influenza trial in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.
What this means for Clariberry
We offer a syrup for its flavour and ingredients: elderberry juice, Ontario honey, lemon juice and cinnamon. We do not recommend a medicinal dose or claim that it boosts immunity or prevents, treats or cures colds or flu.
When to seek advice
Speak with a healthcare professional about illness prevention, symptoms or treatment. If you take medication, are pregnant or are breastfeeding, ask before using elderberry for a health purpose. Products containing honey must not be given to children under 12 months.