Elderberries contain amino acids, carotenoids, flavonoids, organic pigments, tannin, rutin, viburnic acid, vitamins A and B and lots of vitamin C. Elderberries are used to lower cholesterol, improve vision, boost the immune system, improve heart health and for fighting coughs, colds, flu, bacterial and viral infections.
Elderberry tree berries and flowers are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that may boost immune system and help prevent and ease flu and cold symptoms. They help lessen inflammation and stress.
The European elder (a.k.a. black elderberry) is the species most often used in supplements, such as capsules, gummies, lozenges, syrups, teas, and more.
Health Benefits
Eldelberry is known as a good good antioxidant (mostly due to anthocyanin). Anthocyanin clears the body of free radicals that damage cells at the DNA level as well as helps prevent and reduce the severity of certain common infections.
*Elderberry-based medications are classified as dietary supplements by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
lower cholesterol
improve vision
boost the immune system
improve heart health
fight coughs, colds, flu
prevents bacterial and viral infections
pain relief
Colds and Flu
Elderberry has been used for centuries as a home remedy to treat cold and flu virus infections. Elderberry is believed to reduce the severity and duration of the infection significantly if taken within 48 hours of the first symptoms.
2019 studies on elderberry for both cold and flu showed that the fruit substantially reduced upper-airway symptoms.
Pain Relief
Anthocyanins are known to reduced inflammation by inhibiting immune cells nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide serves as a signaling molecule that triggers inflammation in response to injury or disease. By tempering this response, pain and swelling may be relieved.
Topical elderberry tinctures and salves have long been used in folk medicine to treat dental pain, cuts, bruises, and burns. There are even some who claim that elderberry syrup can treat sciatica and other forms of neuropathic pain.