European Elder Berry Concentrate
Also known as: European elderberry, black elderberry, elderberry berry concentrate, Sambucus nigra L.
Overview
European elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a dark purple berry derived from the European elder tree, widely recognized for its use in dietary supplements. It is primarily valued for its purported immune-modulating and antiviral properties, particularly against viral respiratory illnesses such as the common cold and influenza. The concentrate form of elderberry involves the extraction of key bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which are believed to be responsible for its beneficial effects. Research on elderberry is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses available, predominantly focusing on its efficacy for upper respiratory tract infections. While evidence supports its role in reducing the duration and severity of these infections, the quality of evidence varies, and claims regarding other conditions like COVID-19 or cholesterol lack strong scientific backing.
Benefits
Elderberry supplementation has demonstrated significant benefits in reducing the duration and severity of upper respiratory symptoms associated with viral infections, including influenza and the common cold. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials reported a large mean effect size in symptom reduction compared to placebo, with statistically significant outcomes. Another systematic review with meta-analysis confirmed elderberry’s efficacy in both prevention and treatment of viral respiratory illnesses, showing reduced symptom severity and duration. These studies indicate statistically significant reductions in symptom severity scores and illness duration by approximately 2-4 days in treated groups versus controls. Benefits have been observed in both adults and children, though most studies focus on healthy adults. Elderberry may also exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects due to its rich phenolic content, potentially contributing to overall immune support, although clinical evidence for these secondary benefits is less robust. For optimal efficacy, benefits typically manifest within the first few days of symptom onset when elderberry is administered early in the course of illness.
How it works
Elderberry's mechanism of action is attributed to its bioactive compounds, primarily anthocyanins and flavonoids. These compounds exhibit antiviral activity by inhibiting viral replication and attachment, particularly against influenza viruses. Additionally, elderberry modulates immune responses by enhancing cytokine production, which are signaling molecules crucial for immune cell communication. It also boosts antioxidant defenses, helping to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that can occur during infection. The concentrate form of elderberry is designed to improve the bioavailability of these beneficial compounds, facilitating their systemic effects within the body.
Side effects
European elderberry concentrate is generally considered safe when used appropriately in supplement form. Common side effects are rare and typically mild, primarily involving gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea or diarrhea. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been consistently reported in the scientific literature. It is crucial to note that while prepared elderberry concentrates are safe, raw or unripe elderberries, as well as other parts of the elder plant (leaves, stems, bark), contain cyanogenic glycosides. These compounds can produce cyanide and are toxic, causing severe gastrointestinal upset, and should therefore be avoided. Toxicity concerns are minimal with properly processed and prepared elderberry concentrates.
Dosage
Effective doses of elderberry in clinical trials typically range from 300 mg to 1,200 mg of elderberry extract daily. This dosage is usually standardized to its phenolic content and is administered during the acute phase of illness. For optimal efficacy, early administration at the onset of symptoms is highly recommended. It is important to note that concentrate formulations can vary significantly in their potency and standardization. Therefore, dosing should align with the standardized extract content that has been used and proven effective in clinical studies. There is limited data on long-term use, and most studies focus on short-term administration during acute illness.
FAQs
Is elderberry effective for COVID-19?
Current scientific evidence does not support the use of elderberry for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. Its efficacy is primarily established for common cold and influenza viruses.
When should elderberry be taken?
For best results, elderberry should be taken early in the course of a viral respiratory illness, ideally at the first sign of symptoms. This timing aligns with research findings for optimal efficacy.
Is elderberry safe long-term?
Limited data exists on the long-term safety of elderberry. Short-term use during acute illness, as studied in clinical trials, is generally considered safe. Consult a healthcare professional for long-term use.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8026097/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials on elderberry for viral respiratory illnesses. It found significant reductions in symptom severity and duration with elderberry treatment, using random effects meta-analysis. The study acknowledged heterogeneity and small sample sizes as limitations but concluded with an overall positive effect, with moderate quality evidence.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30670267/ – This meta-analysis analyzed four randomized controlled trials on black elderberry for upper respiratory symptoms, involving 180 participants. It found a large effect size favoring elderberry in symptom reduction, including both vaccinated and unvaccinated populations. Limitations included small sample sizes and heterogeneity in symptom measurement, but the quality was considered moderate to high.
- https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev-food-072023-034423 – This comprehensive review compared bioactive compound profiles across Sambucus nigra subspecies, highlighting phenolic compounds as key bioactives responsible for antiviral and antioxidant effects. It provided a biochemical basis for elderberry’s effects but identified gaps in data regarding subspecies differences and long-term safety, with limited clinical data discussed.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-434/elderberry – This source provides a general overview of elderberry, its uses, and safety information. It notes that current evidence does not support elderberry use for COVID-19 treatment or prevention, and emphasizes that raw or unripe berries are toxic. It serves as a general consumer health reference.
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