Elderberry Tea and Supplements
Elderberry Tea and Supplements Information
Elderberry is one of the most popular natural remedies for cold and flu symptoms. It is thought to help fight the symptoms of viral infections and could help to speed up health recovery. Elderberry supplements are especially effective as an SOS therapy at the first sign of a cold or flu. They can help to relieve symptoms and support the immune system for a normal, healthy recovery.
What is Elderberry?
Elderberry is a short tree no more than 10 metres high, with brownish-grey bark and fragrant white flowers. Its fruits are shiny, small berries of a dark purple colour, sometimes almost black. Among many varieties, the black or European elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is the most common. Native to Europe, the black elderberry today grows in North America, Asia, and North Africa and its fruits are used medicinally in many countries around the globe.
The benefits of Elderberry
The medicinal properties of elderberries have been known for centuries, and now elderberry extract is used in many pharmaceuticals. Elderberry is most effective precisely on the first day of the onset of the disease. It has an extraordinarily high level of antioxidants and significantly outperforms other plants in the fight against the duration of colds and flu.
Modern scientists and doctors confirm the healing effect of Elderberry. The envelope of influenza viruses contains a protein called hemagglutinin, and the active substances of Elderberry help to destroy this protein. As a result, influenza viruses lose their ability to invade the cells of the mucous membranes, multiply and cause disease.
In addition, flavonoids found in elderberry flowers and fruits have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Elderberry supplements can help to reduce pain, calm the nervous system, normalise the functioning of the gut, and remove excess fluid from the body.
Elderberry immune support supplements
Elderberry acts as an immunomodulator: it can calm an overactive immune system or activate an overly suppressed one. In case of colds or viral diseases, Elderberry could reduce fever, headache, muscle pain, and nasal congestion. It is also an excellent prophylactic, supporting the immune system and protecting against influenza A and B viruses, which cause annual seasonal epidemics. Consider taking an Elderberry in complex with Zinc, vitamin D and vitamin C for the most effective protection against seasonal viral infections and to help boost your immune system.
How to take an Elderberry supplement
Elderberry supplements are available in the form of syrup, tablets, lozenges and effervescent tablets. There are special supplements for children and adults. Elderberry syrup has a pleasant tart taste, which is why it makes for an excellent addition to hot or cold drinks as an everyday immune support tonic.
Excessive consumption of elderberry supplements can lead to negative side effects, so please consult your health specialist for dosage details. You can also find more helpful health advice about immune-boosting supplements on our blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does elderberry do for your body?
Here are some potential benefits of elderberries:
- Boosts Immune System: Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to stimulate the immune system, potentially helping to protect against infections.
- Reduces Inflammation: Elderberries contain compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which may help ease symptoms of conditions like arthritis.
- Improves Heart Health: Elderberries contain flavonoids that can help lower cholesterol and improve heart health.
- Relieves Cold and Flu Symptoms: Elderberries may help reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms due to their antiviral and immune-boosting properties.
Supports Digestive Health: Elderberries contain fibre, which can help promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
Who should not take elderberry?
While elderberry is generally considered safe for most people, there are some groups who should avoid or be cautious when taking elderberry:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: There is not enough research on the safety of elderberry for pregnant or breastfeeding women, so they should avoid taking it.
- People with autoimmune diseases: Elderberry can stimulate the immune system, which can conflict with some autoimmune diseases and their treatment plans.
- People taking certain medications: Elderberry can interact with some medications, such as immunosuppressants or chemotherapy drugs, so it's important to check with a healthcare professional before taking elderberry supplements or remedies.
- People with allergies: Elderberry can cause allergic reactions in some people, particularly those who are allergic to elder pollen.
- Children under one year old: Elderberry syrup is a popular remedy for colds and flu in children, but it should not be given to children under one year old as it can cause complications, as at this age, children’s reactions and health are still developing.
It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before taking elderberry or any other herbal supplements, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.
Can elderberry raise blood pressure?
There is currently no evidence to suggest that elderberry raises blood pressure. In fact, some studies suggest that elderberry may have a positive impact on blood pressure.
Elderberries are high in antioxidants and flavonoids, which are compounds that can help reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function. These properties may help improve blood pressure in some people.
However, it's important to note that elderberry supplements or remedies may interact with certain medications, including blood pressure medications, so it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking elderberry if you have high blood pressure or are taking medication. Additionally, if you experience any unusual symptoms after taking elderberry, you should stop taking it and seek medical advice.
Can elderberry cause liver problems?
There have been a few reports of liver problems associated with the use of elderberry supplements or remedies.
If you have liver disease or are taking medication that affects liver function, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking elderberry supplements or remedies.
Does elderberry affect hormones?
There are very few studies conducted on the effect of elderberries on hormones. According to one study, elderberry extract can affect steroidogenesis in ovarian cells. Another study suggests that the constituents of black elderberry positively affect the reproductive system and might potentially be used to treat reproductive disorders. Even though these studies have come to some conclusions, it is not enough to discuss the possible effects of elderberry on human hormones.
If you are concerned about how elderberry or any other supplement may affect your hormones, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or remedies. They can help you understand the potential risks and benefits of different products and advise you on the best course of action for your individual needs.
Can elderberry overstimulate the immune system?
Does elderberry reduce anxiety?
There is limited research on the effects of elderberry, specifically on anxiety, so the evidence for its use as an anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) agent is not well-established.
However, elderberry might have an indirect effect on stress and anxiety. One research study shows that there is a positive impact of elderberry on the gut-brain axis of those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, a condition which might cause discomfort and stress and prevent the digestive system from taking part in serotonin production processes.
And in general, elderberries are rich in antioxidants and are good at dealing with colds and flu that are known to induce a lot of stress, anxiety and discomfort.
So while there’s no clear link between elderberry intake and improved mood and reduced anxiety, it can help to alleviate the symptoms and root causes of health conditions that often lead to stress and anxiety and or at least contribute to them.
If you need help dealing with anxiety or other mental health issues, please consult your healthcare provider and find a medically approved treatment plan.