Elderberry and Reishi May Help Shorten and Ease Respiratory Infections in Seniors

Researchers tested whether a daily combination of elderberry and reishi mushroom extracts could help older adults (65 years and older) during the winter season by reducing how long and how severe respiratory infections last. In a 14-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, residents of a nursing home were randomly given either the herbal extract combination or a placebo each day.

The study found that although both groups experienced similar numbers of respiratory infections, the people taking the elderberry + reishi supplement had shorter colds, fewer severe flu-like illness events, and less sleep disruption compared with those taking placebo.

In practical terms, the results suggest that daily intake of elderberry and reishi extracts during cold season may help older adults recover faster from common respiratory infections and experience milder symptoms.