The Use of Sambucol for Pets

Sambucol is a brand syrup manufactured from black elderberries as a primary ingredient. It is used for treating flu symptoms in humans. According to Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP, an unnamed corporate-sponsored study claims a significant decrease in avian flu symptoms in dogs treated with sambucol.,

  1. History

    • Black elderberry has been used in many cultures, including the Native American Indian, to treat fever, stomach ache and other ailments. The use of black elderberry for medicinal purpose, its leaves and bark, dates back to the the fifth century and has evolved in modern times in products like Sambucol.

    Identification

    • Sambucol is a dark blue to purple-colored liquid, similar to cough syrup, packaged for human consumption.

    Significance

    • Black elderberry has three active flavonoids with powerful medicinal properties, working to improve the immune system in humans. Scientific studies in Israel demonstrate a positive result in treating human flu symptoms, which eventually may spur further research for the use of Sambucol for pets.

    Use

    • Sambucol is taken orally. The suggested dose is 1 tbsp. daily to prevent flu-like symptoms but no data exists to support this recommendation.

    Warnings

    • Unripe and uncooked black elderberries are poisonous.