How to Find The Best Elderberry Supplements for Immune Health (2024)

How to Find The Best Elderberry Supplements for Immune Health (1)

Finding the right elderberry product is essential for investing in your immune health. Though maintaining strong immunity during the cooler seasons is especially important, elderberry supplements can keep you feeling your best throughout the year.

Not all supplements are the same though. Some contain added ingredients, such as flavorings and sweeteners, that dilute the potency of the elderberry. Some others contain a type of elderberry that doesn’t provide the optimal benefits that elderberries are known to have. Lastly, there are some supplements that use elderberry not at its peak of freshness or that has been overcooked to where its nutrients are now diminished.

So, to get the results you’re looking for, you must understand why elderberry pills are the preferred choice for strengthening your immune system, especially during seasons when you need it most and how to determine which one will provide you with the best nutrients elderberries can provide.

Elderberry overview

When it comes to maintaining a strong immune system, black elderberries (Sambucus nigra) are the preferred choice. These fruits are high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, notably Vitamin C, potassium and phenolic acid, which combats oxidative damage. These nutrients can boost your immune system and support healthy skin.

The strength of elderberries is found in the berries and flowers, which have been ingredients in natural healing for centuries around the world. However, while the berries and flowers are used for medicinal purposes, the bark, leaves and roots are toxic, and raw elderberries are not safe for consumption.

Three primary characteristics to consider

Locating the best elderberry supplement requires identifying a few factors. Many varieties of elderberry products are available but not all of them offer equal effectiveness.

First, make sure that black elderberry is the primary and first ingredient on the ingredient list. Preferably, find a supplement that has black elderberry as the only active ingredient. This indicates that the supplement contains more black elderberry than the other ingredients added. The top ingredient should state black elderberry, Sambucus nigra, elderberry syrup, elderberry juice or elderberry extract.

Second, check for the freshness and condition of the ingredients. A USDA organic elderberry herbal supplement will ensure you have a high-quality product with berries picked at their peak of freshness. Also note how the elderberries were processed and prepared. Most of the time, a company will advertise if it is producing a potent and fresh product.

Third, avoid elderberry supplements in which the berries are overcooked or boiled, since that form of preparation will naturally reduce their potency and effectiveness. Potency can also be affected if elderberries are past their peak freshness. Rather, seek supplements from companies that state the quality of their ingredients.

Important things to remember about supplements

Consider your preferences and needs when choosing an elderberry supplement. You can choose from many forms, such as capsules, teas, lozenges, liquids and gummies. If you struggle with swallowing, you may prefer lozenges or gummies, whereas if you prefer to consume your supplement as a warm drink, tea will suit you. For quick consumption, an elderberry extract or pills will be the way to go. The form of your supplement may also depend on your lifestyle needs and how portable and accessible you want your supplements to be.

Lastly, consider dosage. Some forms of supplements will allow you to consume more or less than others. Depending on your lifestyle and health, check with a physician to determine the right form and dosage for you.

Recommended elderberry products

Locating quality elderberry products can be a challenge, but if you pay attention to the ingredients, you will find options that are authentic and work, such as Quantum Health's Elderberry Liquid Extract. This supplement is made of elderberry extract. One full dropper of 700 mg of Sambucus nigra will quickly absorb into your body.

For a daily elderberry supplement for immune system defense, try Elderberry Standardized Extract pills. The primary ingredient is 400 mg of elderberry fruit with 5% total antioxidant flavonoids. These pills are ideal as a daily supplement in your diet routine.

Other notable elderberry products are Elderberry + Lozenges and Elderberry + Syrup for on-the-go use and when you need the added benefit of soothing your throat.

Where to find quality elderberry products that work

Ultimately, finding the best elderberry supplement comes down to the company that produces it. Look for a company dedicated to working with natural ingredients that promote a healthy life. Quantum Health shares that goal, and for over 39 years, we’ve been producing supplemental products formulated from scientifically studied ingredients like black elderberry.

Our aim is to provide effective products that support your immune system so you’re always feeling your best, especially during seasons when immune threats are high.

We are trusted by many retailers, such as Walgreens and Rite Aid, where our popular products — including our elderberry supplements — are sold nationwide.

How to Find The Best Elderberry Supplements for Immune Health (2024)

FAQs

How to Find The Best Elderberry Supplements for Immune Health? ›

Preferably, find a supplement that has black elderberry

black elderberry
Sambucus nigra is a species complex of flowering plants in the family Adoxaceae native to most of Europe. Common names include elder, elderberry, black elder, European elder, European elderberry, and European black elderberry.
https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Sambucus_nigra
as the only active ingredient. This indicates that the supplement contains more black elderberry than the other ingredients added. The top ingredient should state black elderberry, Sambucus nigra, elderberry syrup, elderberry juice or elderberry extract.

What is the healthiest way to consume elderberry? ›

The most popular way to use fresh elderberries is to cook them into a syrup or extract used to support your immune system. With this step-by-step homemade elderberry syrup recipe, you can make your own tincture whenever you want to give your immune system a little extra TLC.

What form should I take elderberry in? ›

There is no standard dose of elderberry. For flu, some studies have used 1 tablespoon of an elderberry syrup extract four times a day. Another common form of elderberry is a lozenge, often with zinc, that is taken numerous times daily after a cold begins. Ask your health care provider for advice.

Does elderberry really work for immune system? ›

The berries and flowers of elderberry are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system. They could help tame inflammation, lessen stress, and help protect your heart, too. Some experts recommend elderberry to help prevent and ease cold and flu symptoms.

Which elderberry is the most medicinal? ›

If you're looking for a fall harvest of fruit, Sambucus nigra (and S. canadensis, which is closely related to S. nigra) is the species of elderberry that is edible and has medicinal uses.

Why not to take elderberry daily? ›

There is a downside to consuming too much elderberry, and that is an upset stomach. Just like with any high fiber fruit, eating too much can cause stomach pain, upset stomach, and diarrhea.

What not to mix with elderberry? ›

Because elderberry may stimulate the immune system, it could interfere with medications taken to suppress the immune system. These medications include corticosteroids (prednisone) and medications used to treat autoimmune diseases. People with organ transplants should also avoid elderberry.

How much elderberry should I take to boost my immune system? ›

Dosing. Elderberry fruit extracts have most often been used by adults in doses up to 1200 mg by mouth daily for 2 weeks. Elderberry is available in many different types of products, including syrups and mouth rinses.

Should I take elderberry in the morning or at night? ›

Although there is no specific time of day to take elderberry, you'll maximize its benefits by using it consistently on a regular basis. You can choose whether to use it morning, afternoon or evening. It may be best to use elderberry for short periods of time to support healthy immune function, and then take a break.

Is elderberry safe for kidneys? ›

Cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers and liver and kidney function are not altered in postmenopausal women after ingesting an elderberry extract rich in anthocyanins for 12 weeks. J Nutr. 2009 Dec;139(12):2266-71. doi: 10.3945/jn.

Can you take magnesium and elderberry together? ›

Interactions between your drugs

No interactions were found between Elderberry Gummies with Vitamin C and Zinc and magnesium oxide. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.

Can you take elderberry and vitamins together? ›

Although elderberry has a history of being used for a wide variety of health reasons, when the goal is to supplement your diet to help support your immune system with Vitamin C and Zinc, the combination of elderberry with Vitamin C and Zinc provides the antioxidant and immune system support that is more helpful than ...

What form of elderberry is most effective? ›

When it comes to maintaining a strong immune system, black elderberries (Sambucus nigra) are the preferred choice.

Do doctors recommend elderberry? ›

Therefore, elderberry cannot be recommended for any particular health benefit. Reasonable evidence supports its use to help reduce the length and severity of flu symptoms. Also, it may support heart health, improve antioxidant status, and have a variety of anti-cancer, anti-diabetes, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Which is better for immune system elderberry or echinacea? ›

The pair can be used in different ways but can also work in conjunction with one another as natural infection fighters – and more. Echinacea benefits make it best for preventative measures, while elderberry is best for when an illness is already present.

What is the difference between elderberry and Sambucus elderberry? ›

American elderberry ( Sambucus canadensis) is more shrub-like and can grow up to 8 to 10 feet high, while European black elder ( Sambucus nigra) has the makings of a small tree and will reach 20 feet. It is well adapted to a wide range of habitats.

Is it better to take elderberry in the morning or at night? ›

Elderberry can generally be consumed at any time of day—in the morning, at night, or in between. Since it's a food itself, you could take Elderberry on an empty stomach if it seems to work for you. It can also be taken with food.

Are elderberry gummies or pills better? ›

Other commonly used elderberry supplements include elderberry syrups and capsules. Like gummies, most elderberry syrups contain added sugar. If you're trying to decrease your sugar intake but still want to take elderberry, capsules — which contain powdered elderberries — are the best choice.

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