Elderberry has been traditionally used for to relieve pain, inflammation, water retention, and congestion.

Laboratory studies have shown that elderberry decreaes excessive sinus mucus secretion. Some studies suggest that elderberry can help reduce swelling of mucous membranes, improve sinus drainage, and decreased nasal congestion in those with bacterial sinusitis.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra [Latin]), also called elder flower, is a tree that bears cream-colored flowers followed by dark purple berries in autumn. Elderberry trees are native to Europe, but have been naturalized to the Americas, and have a long history of medicinal use. All parts of the elderberry tree, including the bark, flowers, and leaves, have been used in herbal medicine. However, it is the flowers and berries of this tree that are most often used medicinally.