The elderberry supplements contain extracts from a dark purple berry that grows on the European elder tree. It's widely used in native medicine for cold and flu. Among the 30 types of elder plants and trees, Sambucus nigra, native to Europe is known for its medicinal healing properties.
Elderberry plant's flowers and berries have antioxidants and vitamins that can support immune health. The polyphenols in elderberry have been known to delay the onset of many chronic conditions.
What are the Elderberry Supplement Benefits?
Elderberry fruits are more commonly used in making jams, jellies, syrups, pies, etc, as they are naturally sweet and fruity. The elderberry supplements bring the health benefits of these berries to everyone who can't get the fruits. The anthocyanins and flavonoids in elderberries offer the following health benefits:
Vitamin C Powerhouse
One cup of raw elderberry has 52.2 mg of vitamin C. We all know that vitamin C is good for the immune system and high levels of vitamin C may help with infections and illnesses. Vitamin C plays a major role in reversing oxidative stress in the body. Further, it also aids in cellular repair and may be useful in muscle recovery. Supplements like NOW Elderberry Liquid contain concentrated extracts that can help you get the vitamin C you need to fight against infections.
Antioxidant Fighters
Elderberry has antioxidant compounds such as chlorogenic acid, protocatechuic acid, phytonutrients like quercetin, rutin, etc, which can neutralize the free radicals in the body. They protect against oxidative damage. This oxidative stress can lead to many chronic conditions and foods containing high antioxidants can help prevent damage on a cellular level.
Inflammation Buster
Elderberries also have anti-inflammatory properties due to the polyphenol flavanoids. This can reduce inflammation in the whole body, supporting brain and gut health.
Immune Booster
Elderberry supplements are commonly known for their immune-boosting properties. With vitamin C, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, etc, the extracts can be useful to boost immunity in the long term. It can strengthen your immunity, reducing the severity and length of infections. Parents also opt for Elderberry liquid for Kids from Now to make their kids' immunity stronger.
Against Cold and Flu
The flower infusions and fruit extracts of elderberry may be useful in bringing down the severity and length of cold and flu symptoms. In a study, people were given elderberry syrup and their influenza symptoms improved within 4 days. Many people start taking black elderberry dietary supplements such as the one from Natures Way during the flu season to strenghthen their body's internal defences against the pathogens.
Respiratory and Lung Support
Elderberry contains an important flavonoid and antioxidant, quercetin. It's well known for its lung function support. In a study, elderberry was found to be helpful in reducing the symptoms in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Thus, it may be useful for reducing the severity of viral respiratory illnesses, thereby providing lung support.
Heart Health Support
Some studies point out that elderberry extracts may have positive effects on heart and blood vessel health. It may be useful in reducing the risk of heart health issues, as the flavonoids in elderberries may be useful to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. It's important to consult a healthcare expert before you take elderberry supplements.
What is the Best Elderberry Supplement to Take?
When you want to buy elderberry supplements, you will find that they are available in a few different forms. On Nutriessential, we have the following:
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Syrups: The most popular form of elderberry supplements is the syrup such as the one from Planetary Herbals. These contain concentrated extracts of elderberries and may contain sweeteners.
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Capsules: Elderberry capsules contain standardized elderberry extracts and they are so easy to take. Top brands like Now can be good options.
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Liquid extracts: Liquid elderberry supplements such as Trace Minerals Research and Global Healing contain elderberry concentrated extracts along with other synergistic ingredients for immunity boost. These are different from syrups as you can mix these liquid supplements in water or juice and consume it.
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Gummies: Elderberry gummies are one of the popular ways of taking elderberry supplements. As the elderberries are naturally fruity, these gummies taste delicious. On Nutriessential, we have elderberry gummies for kids and adults. These gummies may contain other organic fruit blends and added sugar to make them more tasty.
The elderberry extract concentration varies from one form to another. Often, capsules contain standardised extracts, while you can adjust dosage with liquid and syrup supplements. Kids love gummies because they are fun and tasty to eat.
What are the Side Effects of Elderberry Supplements?
Raw elderberry is safe to take only when you eat ripe fruits. Unripe fruits, leaves, or stems are not safe to consume. Cooked elderberries are much safer.
Most of the elderberry supplements contain extracts from ripe fruits. They are safe to consume for the short term during flu season or when you are coming down with a cold. If you wish to take elderberry supplements for a long term connect with a healthcare provider first.
Some people may be allergic to elderberries and they must avoid taking elderberry supplements.
Elderberry supplements may have interactions with other medications you take. So, if you have other health conditions or take medications, you must consult with your doctor first before taking elderberry supplements.
How to Choose the Best-Rated Elderberry Supplement?
To buy the best elderberry supplements, consider the following factors:
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Trusted Brand: Verify that the brand you choose has a good reputation and they assure quality. From Nutriessential, you can buy elderberry supplements from many practitioner-recommended brands.
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Quality assurance: Ensure that the products are tested thoroughly for safety and assurance. Organic elderberry extracts are often third-party tested for safety, quality, and potency.
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Different forms: Pick elderberry capsules, syrups, gummies, or liquid extracts based on your choice. For kids, syrups and gummies are easy to consume.
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Ingredient combination: While elderberry alone has immune boosting properties, many supplements contain additional synergistic ingredients to boost immunity. Read the label to know more about the ingredients and the right dosage.
FAQs
1. Are elderberry supplements safe?
Yes, elderberry supplements are safe to consume for adults and often, they are used for a short term for up to 12 weeks. If you want to take it for long term or you have other health issues and take medications, you should consult a healthcare provider first.
2. Which is the best elderberry supplement for the immune system?
Elderberry supplements with natural elderberry extracts have immune-boosting properties. If you prefer taking elderberry extracts for the cold and flu season, you may opt for syrups. For general immunity and wellness, many people take elderberry capsules and gummies. Ultimately, the choice comes down to the form you prefer and the brand you choose.
3. Can I give elderberry supplements to kids?
Yes, elderberry supplements for kids are available at Nutriessential. They are good for the immune system and protection against cold and flu. If you have any questions, you can contact our health expert who will help you find the right supplement for your child.
