Elderberry

Discover The Healing Powers of Elderberry Supplements

Elderberry (Sambucus) is a genus of flowering plants in the Adoxaceae family. The different Sambucus species, referred to as elder, elderflower or Elderberry, have a rich history of traditional use in various cultures. The elderberry plant is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. However, it is most widespread in the Northern Hemisphere, and its presence is restricted to Australasia and South America in the South. Elderberry supplements have been used for centuries, with evidence suggesting it may have been cultivated by prehistoric man. 

The elderberry plant and its berry have been (and continue to be) used in myriad culinary and medicinal applications, as well as in the production of dyes and cosmetics. Moreover, historical texts tell us that the elder tree was considered sacred in European folklore and believed to ward off evil spirits. 

Sambucus nigra (or black elderberry) is the variety most commonly used in medicinal applications, and, unsurprisingly, it is the species which has been most scientifically studied. 

All parts of the black elderberry plant (flower, bark, leaf, and fruits) are rich sources of phytochemicals, including vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, lipids, terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids (including rutin), alkaloids, essential oils, and perhaps most notably, essential fatty acids. Black elderberry fruits are especially rich in polyphenols, including anthocyanins, with high antioxidant potential. This rich biochemical composition imparts the black elderberry with considerable health benefits. 

Key Health Benefits of Elderberry Supplements

• Activates The Immune System
• Anti-Inflammatory Support
• Boosts Antioxidant Defenses
• Help Relieve And Shorten The Duration Of Cold And Flu
• Regulates Hormones
• Supports Respiratory Health

Who Would Most Benefit From Elderberry?

A quality black elderberry supplement may be particularly advantageous for individuals looking to support their immune system. Rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids and anthocyanins, black elderberry is ideal for anyone looking to strengthen their body's defences against common colds and flu viruses. People with a busy lifestyle or those frequently exposed to environments where infections are prevalent (doctors, nurses, schools, daycares, etc.) may also find black elderberry supplements beneficial in bolstering their immune response. Additionally, individuals prone to respiratory issues or seasonal allergies might find a black elderberry supplement helpful.

Elderberry Supplements Varieties: Forms, Formats & More

Black elderberry supplements are offered in various formats to accommodate diverse preferences. These include capsules, tablets, gummies, liquid extracts, powders, and teas. Moreover, while black elderberry supplements are widely available in isolated form (featuring only elderberry), they can also be found in combination blends featuring other immune-supportive ingredients such as echinacea, garlic, vitamin C, zinc, etc.

What To Look For When Shopping For Quality Elderberry

When shopping for a high-quality black elderberry supplement, it's essential to prioritize a few things. First and foremost, look for a standardized extract with a specified percentage of active compounds, particularly anthocyanins, one of elderberry's most important bioactive compounds. 

Also, look for supplements that use organic and non-GMO elderberries to ensure purity and avoid harmful contaminants. The extraction method matters too, so ideally, opt for supplements that use CO2 extraction to preserve the potency of the beneficial compounds. Additionally, third-party testing for quality and purity is crucial; look for certifications from reputable organizations which assure the supplement's authenticity, safety, and efficacy.

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