Elderberry is actually a term used to describe numerous botanical species around the world. However, the most widely used kind of elderberry is the fruit of the Sambucus nigra, a shrub native to and common in Europe.
Elderberries are important in cuisine and viticulture and are featured in various pie and cookie recipes, as well as in wine.
But for others, elderberries are considered an important dietary supplement, and one which may carry important benefits related to immune support.
It is true that elderberry extract is potent in antioxidants and vitamins that have the potential to reduce oxidative stress and even support immune function. But what do the studies suggest?
Well, one 2001 publication indicated that sambucol (a compound found in elderberry extract) may be selectively effective as an antiviral agent. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study found sambucol to be effective at reducing the duration of flu symptoms in participants.
Elderberry’s supposed antiviral properties are not the only thing that makes it appealing. The same study suggested that the sambucol could also benefit the immune system by significantly increasing the production of inflammatory cytokines (critical immune cell signaling, immunomodulating agents).
More recent studies may also suggest that elderberry extract may have clinically significant antiviral properties. While small in scale (and calling for additional research) a separate study concluded that elderberry extract can be effective at mitigating the symptoms of influenza in affected patients.
Another study showed promise, too. Although the test subjects were rats, the conclusions drawn were that elderberry extract has the potential to positively affect immune response, specifically by increasing the number of protective lymphocytes in the blood.
While more studies are warranted, and more evidence is forthcoming, these cursory studies show the potential for elderberry extract to be effective in supporting immune health in general and perhaps even in viral convalescence.
How Much Elderberry Should You Take for Immune Support?
There is no standard dose for elderberry extracts, but many supplements contain between 150mg and 300mg of elderberry extract per dose or capsule. As with any supplement, you should consult your physician before use.
Are There Other Benefits to Taking Elderberry Immune Support Supplements?
The supposed benefits of elderberry extract are not restricted to immune support. Elderberry extract may support many other areas of health and wellness.
Some studies have suggested that elderberry extract may be able to reduce the risk of CVD, which may be attributable to an ability to regulate levels of cholesterol in the blood. Elderberry extract may also be able to reduce the levels of uric acid and sugar in the blood.
Elderberry extract is also packed with a wealth of antioxidants which can help fight the oxidative stress that can exacerbate the risk of chronic diseases such as Type 2 Diabetes. The phenolic acids, flavonoids, and other antioxidants in elderberry extract may be effective at reducing inflammation, neutralizing free radical damage, and even fighting infections.
Certain phenolic compounds are now known to diminish the virility and antibiotic resistance of some bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, so select antioxidant content may actually contribute to elderberry’s significance as an immune support supplement.
Where Can You Find a High-Quality Emergency Elderberry Supplement?
If you’re interested in trying a high-quality emergency elderberry supplement, consider the Emergency Immune Support with Echinacea + Elderberry available online at FeelYounger.net.
In addition to elderberry extract, their antibiotic-free, vegan-friendly formula contains healthy helpings of vitamins C, E, and B6, along with zinc, echinacea powder, garlic powder, and turmeric.
Their formula is also free of gluten, sugar, corn, hormones, binders, fillers, and lactose, and is made in the USA.
For more information on their emergency elderberry supplement, visit their website or contact their customer service team at [email protected].
