Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Elderberries on a grey background

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

The purple-black berries from the black elder plant, which is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, are known for their nutritional content and antioxidant power.1,2 They contain many active chemicals, including anthocyanins, which have been shown to support immune function, as well as A- and B-group vitamins, tocopherols, and vitamin C.2,3*

 

Properties and mechanism of action

Anthocyanins are a type of flavonoid that have been shown in scientific studies to possess antioxidative and other properties that are believed to actively support the body’s immune system.4*

Scientific support

Elderberries have demonstrated immune supporting and promoting capabilities in laboratory studies.5,6* In a recent meta-analysis of clinical studies, supplementation with elderberry was found to significantly support the upper respiratory system.2*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Ingredient details are provided as general information and are not intended to be associated with any specific Zarbee’s® products.

REFERENCES: 1. Krawitz C, Mraheil MA, Stein M, et al. Inhibitory activity of a standardized elderberry liquid extract against clinically-relevant human respiratory bacterial pathogens and influenza A and B viruses. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2011;11:16. 2. Sidor A, Gramza-Michalowska A. Advanced research on the antioxidant and health benefit of elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in food – a review. J Funct Foods. 2015;19(Part B):941-958. 3. Hawkins J, Baker C, Cherry L, Dunne E. Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials. Complement Ther Med. 2019;42:361-365. 4. Khoo HE, Azlan A, Tang ST, Lim SM. Anthocyanidins and anthocyanins: colored pigments as food, pharmaceutical ingredients, and the potential health benefits. Food Nutr Res. 2017;61(1):1361779. 5. Vlachojannis JE, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. A systematic review on the sambuci fructus effect and efficacy profiles. Phytother Res. 2010;24(1):1-8. 6. Tiralongo E, Wee SS, Lea RA. Elderberry supplementation reduces cold duration and symptoms in air-travellers: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Nutrients. 2016;8(4):182.