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Organic Elderberry Concentrate

Also known as: Black elderberry, European elderberry, Elderberry, Elder, *Sambucus nigra*

Overview

Black elderberry (*Sambucus nigra*) is a plant native to Europe, western and central Asia, and North Africa, known for its medicinal properties. The supplement is primarily derived from its ripe berries, which are rich in bioactive compounds such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and various vitamins. Traditionally, elderberry has been utilized for treating cold, flu, and other respiratory ailments, acting as a laxative, diaphoretic, and diuretic. Recent research indicates moderate to high levels of effectiveness in reducing symptoms related to upper respiratory infections, although the quality of evidence varies among studies. Preparations commonly take the form of concentrated extracts, tinctures, or dried berries, targeting a wide population for both prevention and symptomatic relief during illnesses.

Benefits

Elderberry supplementation is associated with several evidence-based benefits, particularly in alleviating upper respiratory symptoms. A meta-analysis involving 180 participants indicated a substantial reduction in such symptoms, suggesting elderberry could serve as a potential alternative to antibiotic treatments. Additionally, systematic reviews noted decreased duration and severity of cold and influenza symptoms, although the evidence is marked with some uncertainty. The anti-inflammatory properties of elderberry have also been highlighted, with studies linking it to reductions in inflammatory markers. Notably, special populations, such as children and the elderly, may benefit from elderberry, although there is limited data on safety in these groups. Overall, the strength of evidence is considerable, although variability and gaps exist in reporting exact effect sizes.

How it works

Elderberry exhibits its effects primarily through its antiviral and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. The flavonoids found in elderberry can bind to viral proteins, thereby inhibiting viral infections such as H1N1. Moreover, elderberry may modulate inflammatory responses by affecting cytokine production, which plays a significant role in the immune response. This interaction enhances the body's ability to fight infections while possibly reducing excessive inflammatory responses associated with viral illnesses.

Side effects

Elderberry is generally safe when derived from ripe berries, but unripe berries should be avoided due to their cyanogenic glycoside content, which can be toxic. Common side effects are not well documented, but when they do occur, they tend to be mild and infrequent. There is no significant evidence linking elderberry to rare side effects, and data surrounding potential drug interactions suggest it may have immunomodulatory effects, necessitating caution when used alongside immunosuppressants. It is advisable for children and pregnant women to use elderberry with medical supervision due to the lack of comprehensive safety data in these demographics. Individuals with known allergies to elderberry should avoid it.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of elderberry extract typically ranges between 500 mg to 1000 mg daily, although optimal dosages may vary. For effective symptom management, adults may take 2.5 ml to 5 ml of elderberry extract (with 89 g extract per 100 g of liquid) up to three times a day. There are no established maximum safe doses, but exceeding 1000 mg daily is uncommon in studies. While timing of administration is not critical, consistency is important, particularly at the onset of cold or flu symptoms. Both dried and fresh elderberry preparations are available, with a preference towards dried plant extracts due to their widespread usage in supplements.

FAQs

Is elderberry safe for everyone?

Elderberry is safe when made from ripe berries; avoid unripe berries due to their toxic content.

When should I take elderberry supplements?

Elderberry is best taken at the onset of symptoms for maximum effectiveness, although timing is generally flexible.

What results can I expect from taking elderberry?

Users often experience reduced severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms, although individual results may vary.

Can elderberry replace my medication for a viral infection?

Elderberry is not a substitute for medical treatment; it serves as a complementary approach to symptom relief.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30670267/ – This meta-analysis examined the use of elderberry supplementation across several studies involving 180 participants, concluding substantial reductions in upper respiratory symptoms with a large mean effect size. Limitations included a small number of studies, impacting generalized conclusions.
https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-report/final-assessment-report-sambucus-nigra-l-fructus_en.pdf – A systematic review involving five randomized trials suggested elderberry effectively reduces the duration and severity of colds and influenza, although the evidence was not as robust. No overstimulation of the immune system or increased cytokine storm risk was found.
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9717/10/11/2288 – This review highlighted elderberry's rich chemical composition, particularly anthocyanins and phenolic compounds, contributing to its health benefits. Although not a clinical trial, it provided insights into elderberry's biological effects and potential therapeutic roles.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33827515/ – This research discusses elderberry's antiviral properties, particularly its ability to inhibit key viral infections, which can support its use in treating respiratory illnesses effectively.
https://ouci.dntb.gov.ua/en/works/7WdmwGL4/ – The assessment found moderate effectiveness of elderberry in cold treatment, acknowledging its natural origins and traditional applications in respiratory health, as well as variations in study quality impacting overall evidence strength.