Elderberry

SCIENTIFIC NAME

Sambucus

About

Elderberry is a term that refers to many different varieties of the Sambucus tree. The Sambucus is a flowering plant that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. The European elderberry, also known as the black elder, comes from the European elder tree. It is the most common type of elderberry, grown primarily in Europe; elderberries exist all around the globe. The berries and flowers of elderberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that boost your immune system and neutralize harmful free radicals in your body . They help tame inflammation, lessen stress, and protect your heart, too. It is an old age plant extract with potent benefits

Dosage & Duration

Elderberry extract is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth for up to 12 weeks. There isn't enough reliable information to know if it is safe to use elderberry extract for more than 12 weeks. It is POSSIBLY UNSAFE to consume elder leaves or stems, or unripe or uncooked elderberries.

Benefits

Treats Acne
With high levels of flavonoids, a naturally occurring strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, elderberries help to protect healthy cells from free radicals that play a key role in many skin problems. Some studies suggest that adding elderberry to your face wash can help fight acne because of its antiseptic effects. Also, elderberry has a detoxifying effect to help prevent future breakouts.
Reduces Wrinkles
Elderberries contain a super high level of Vitamin A. The American Nutrition Association states that elderberries may soothe skin, reduce the appearance of age spots, and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines associated with age.
Cold and Flu Killer
Elderberries have been shown to reduce fever, inflammation and reduce the symptoms and duration of colds and flu. Elderberries are also ‘anti-catarrhal’ meaning they help to relieve a stuffy nose and head congestion naturally.
Improves Digestive Health
Elderberries are an excellent source of fiber. One cup of elderberries contains around 10.2g of fiber. This is approximately a third of your daily allowance. For this reason, elderberries help to relieve constipation, reduce excessive gas and increase your overall digestive health. Fibre is also needed for weight management, blood sugar regulation and has been linked to increased life longevity.
Boosts The Immune System
Elderberries are extremely potent in anthocyanins. This is what gives them their deep purplish colouring. Anthocyanins are extremely powerful antioxidants that work to boost the immune system. Elderberries also contain antiviral agents which are thought to be strong enough to kill off viruses and pathogens that enter the immune system, keeping them strong and resilient. The flavonoids in elderberries have been proven to help fight inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. This helps your skin and body maintain optimal health.
Aids in Relieving Urinary Tract/Bladder Infections
Who says cranberries are the best option to treat urinary tract/bladder infections? Elderberries can provide great relief for those suffering with such conditions. Acting as a natural diuretic, elderberries increase urination and help to flush out toxins from your system. This can prevent the infection from spreading further to the kidneys and reduce the bacteria that causes cystitis.

TOP 3 STUDIES

Advanced research on the antioxidant and health benefit of elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in food – a review