Organic Elderberry Fruit Extract
Also known as: Sambucus nigra L., Black elderberry, Black elderberry fruit extract, Organic elderberry extract, Elderberry, Sambucus nigra
Overview
Organic Elderberry Fruit Extract is derived from the berries of the Sambucus nigra plant, a shrub native to Europe and North America. This extract is rich in bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is primarily used to alleviate symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold and influenza, and to support the immune system. Research indicates that elderberry extract can significantly reduce the duration and severity of these symptoms. The extract is available in various forms, including capsules, syrups, lozenges, and gummies, making it a versatile option for consumers seeking natural remedies. While generally considered safe, it's important to source organic extracts to minimize potential contaminants and ensure better preservation of active compounds.
Benefits
The primary benefit of Organic Elderberry Fruit Extract is the significant reduction in the duration and severity of upper respiratory symptoms associated with the common cold and influenza. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 180 participants demonstrated a large effect size in symptom reduction compared to placebo, with statistical significance (p<0.05). Secondary benefits include the modulation of the immune response by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ) and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10), suggesting an immunoregulatory effect. These benefits are primarily observed in adults with viral respiratory infections. The clinically meaningful benefits in reducing cold and flu symptoms are typically observed within days of supplementation during acute respiratory illness episodes.
How it works
Organic Elderberry Fruit Extract exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. Its antiviral activity is attributed to flavonoids and anthocyanins, which inhibit viral replication. Additionally, it modulates the immune system by shifting the T-helper cell response from Th1 (pro-inflammatory) to Th2 (anti-inflammatory), reducing inflammatory cytokines and increasing regulatory cytokines. Key molecular targets include cytokines such as TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-10. Anthocyanins and flavonoids are absorbed into the body, although their bioavailability can vary. Organic extracts may offer better preservation of these active compounds, enhancing their overall effectiveness.
Side effects
Organic Elderberry Fruit Extract is generally recognized as safe, with no serious adverse events reported in clinical trials. The most commonly reported side effect is mild gastrointestinal discomfort, which is rare. There are no significant reports of allergic reactions or immune overstimulation. However, caution is advised when using elderberry with immunosuppressants due to its immune-modulating effects. While no contraindications are clearly established, caution is also advised in individuals with autoimmune diseases due to the potential immune effects. Further studies are needed to confirm the safety of elderberry in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and children.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of Organic Elderberry Fruit Extract typically ranges from 300 mg to 600 mg of standardized extract daily. During acute illness, it is best to divide the daily dosage into multiple administrations. Standardized extracts with quantified anthocyanin content are preferred to ensure consistent potency. It is advisable to take elderberry with food, as this may improve the absorption of flavonoids. While the maximum safe dose is not well-defined, doses up to 600 mg/day have been well-tolerated in clinical trials. It is most effective when taken at the onset of symptoms for acute respiratory infections.
FAQs
Is elderberry safe for long-term use?
Limited data exists regarding the long-term safety of elderberry. Most studies have focused on short-term use during acute illness. Further research is needed to determine its safety for prolonged consumption.
Can elderberry prevent colds?
The evidence supporting elderberry's effectiveness is stronger for treating colds rather than preventing them. While it may offer some preventative benefits, more research is needed to confirm this.
Does elderberry overstimulate the immune system?
No evidence suggests that elderberry overstimulates the immune system. Instead, it modulates the immune response, promoting a shift towards anti-inflammatory pathways.
How quickly does it work?
Symptom improvement is often observed within 2-4 days of starting elderberry supplementation, particularly when taken at the onset of respiratory infection symptoms.
Is organic elderberry better?
Organic elderberry extracts may have fewer contaminants and better preservation of active compounds. However, direct comparative studies are lacking to definitively prove its superiority.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30670267/ – This meta-analysis of RCTs, involving 180 participants with upper respiratory symptoms, found that elderberry supplementation significantly reduced symptom severity and duration with a large effect size (p<0.05). The study highlights the potential of elderberry as a treatment for upper respiratory infections, though it acknowledges limitations such as moderate total sample size and heterogeneity in study designs.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33827515/ – This systematic review of elderberry for viral respiratory illnesses concludes that elderberry is a safe and potentially effective option for treating these infections without causing immune overstimulation. The review emphasizes the need for larger RCTs to confirm preventive effects and further validate its efficacy.
- https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev-food-072023-034423 – This URL does not directly relate to the research content provided. It is a general URL for the Annual Review of Food Science and Technology. Without a specific article or summary, it is not possible to provide a relevant summary.
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09540105.2021.1978941 – This randomized controlled trial investigated the immunomodulatory effects of elderberry extract. The study found that elderberry extract reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ) and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10), shifting the immune response towards Th2, supporting the biological plausibility of its clinical effects.
- https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/10156963/1/A%20new%20high.pdf – This study provides evidence that elderberry extract can modulate the immune response by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines. This shift in cytokine profile supports the observed clinical benefits of elderberry in reducing the severity and duration of upper respiratory infections.
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