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Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Teaspoons (10 ml)
Serving Per Container: 12
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calories
25
Total Carbohydrate
7 g
3%†
Total Sugars
7 g
**
Includes 3.1 g Added Sugars
6.2%
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
110 mg
122%
Zinc (as zinc gluconate)
2.6 mg
24%
Black Elderberry Extract
3.8 g
**
The product is found useful for the following medical conditions
Flu details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 18 Researches
7.7
USERS' SCORE
Excellent
Based on 14 Reviews
9.1
9
Elderberry inhibits H1N1 flu infection
Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro.
Most Relevant Research
We delved into how elderberry, specifically from the black elderberry fruit, impacts the flu virus, H1N1. Using an innovative technique called Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry (DART TOF-MS), we were able to identify the powerful anti-viral properties of elderberry extract without the need for complicated processes like separation or derivatization.
Our findings revealed that elderberry extract does indeed inhibit H1N1 infection in a lab setting, with an effective concentration (IC50) of 252 micrograms per milliliter. Interestingly, we discovered that flavonoids present in the elderberry bind to H1N1 virions—essentially blocking their ability to infect host cells.
Among the compounds, two key flavonoids emerged: the 5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin and dihydromyricetin. These compounds not only bound to the virus but also effectively prevented infection. Notably, the tetra-O-methylquercetin demonstrated an impressive IC50 of just 0.13 micrograms per milliliter, which is comparable to well-known antiviral medications like Oseltamivir and Amantadine.
In summary, elderberry shows promising potential as a natural remedy against the H1N1 flu, offering a fascinating area for further research and utilization in flu prevention strategies.
Our findings revealed that elderberry extract does indeed inhibit H1N1 infection in a lab setting, with an effective concentration (IC50) of 252 micrograms per milliliter. Interestingly, we discovered that flavonoids present in the elderberry bind to H1N1 virions—essentially blocking their ability to infect host cells.
Among the compounds, two key flavonoids emerged: the 5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin and dihydromyricetin. These compounds not only bound to the virus but also effectively prevented infection. Notably, the tetra-O-methylquercetin demonstrated an impressive IC50 of just 0.13 micrograms per milliliter, which is comparable to well-known antiviral medications like Oseltamivir and Amantadine.
In summary, elderberry shows promising potential as a natural remedy against the H1N1 flu, offering a fascinating area for further research and utilization in flu prevention strategies.
9.5
Surprisingly effective remedy
Most Useful Review
I think this actually works! I heard about Sambucol from a cool tool website and was skeptical but intrigued. I ordered it while experiencing sore throat and stuffy nose symptoms. I took it as directed and felt significantly better in 1-2 days. I continued for five days and never got fully sick. It’s hard to tell if I would have gotten worse, but I believe it worked. Though I generally dislike remedies, I consider this effective. It’s pricey, but I'm likely to buy again.
Common Cold details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 17 Researches
7.6
USERS' SCORE
Excellent
Based on 56 Reviews
9
9
Zinc shortens cold duration variability
Quantile Treatment Effect of Zinc Lozenges on Common Cold Duration: A Novel Approach to Analyze the Effect of Treatment on Illness Duration.
Most Relevant Research
We explored how zinc lozenges affect the duration of the common cold through a detailed analysis of multiple trials. In particular, we focused on the Mossad (1996) trial involving zinc gluconate lozenges, which revealed an average reduction of cold duration by about 4.0 days. While that sounds promising, our findings through a quantile treatment effect (QTE) analysis tell a more nuanced story.
Interestingly, the QTE analysis showed that for individuals suffering from lengthy colds lasting 15 to 17 days, the zinc lozenges could shorten their illness by as much as 8 days. On the flip side, those with shorter, 2-day colds only experienced a 1-day reduction in sickness. This suggests that while zinc may help, its effectiveness varies significantly depending on the initial duration of the cold, making the overall average effect less informative than we might think.
Our examination extended to three trials that used zinc acetate lozenges, yielding a similar average reduction of around 2.7 days. However, again, those averages concealed varying effects for short and long colds, highlighting the importance of looking beyond simple averages in treatment studies.
Overall, we observed that zinc lozenges can indeed help with cold duration, but the extent of that help is very much dependent on how long a person has been suffering. This approach to understanding treatment effects through QTE analysis could have important implications not just for cold treatment but also for analyzing other health outcomes.
Interestingly, the QTE analysis showed that for individuals suffering from lengthy colds lasting 15 to 17 days, the zinc lozenges could shorten their illness by as much as 8 days. On the flip side, those with shorter, 2-day colds only experienced a 1-day reduction in sickness. This suggests that while zinc may help, its effectiveness varies significantly depending on the initial duration of the cold, making the overall average effect less informative than we might think.
Our examination extended to three trials that used zinc acetate lozenges, yielding a similar average reduction of around 2.7 days. However, again, those averages concealed varying effects for short and long colds, highlighting the importance of looking beyond simple averages in treatment studies.
Overall, we observed that zinc lozenges can indeed help with cold duration, but the extent of that help is very much dependent on how long a person has been suffering. This approach to understanding treatment effects through QTE analysis could have important implications not just for cold treatment but also for analyzing other health outcomes.
9.5
Faster cold recovery
Most Useful Review
Excellent medication; undoubtedly the best from this brand. At the initial symptoms of a cold, the immune support is exceptional. I buy it for my children and have noticed the results. Their colds genuinely pass more swiftly and easily compared to other children in their class, especially when used alongside other treatments. It boasts a significant amount of antioxidants and vastly outperforms other herbal remedies against the influenza virus. Black elder offers diaphoretic, bactericidal, and anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s most effective on the first day, hence should be taken as soon as symptoms arise. This remedy quickly helps us recover from ARVI and flu.
Cold details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 10 Researches
7.8
USERS' SCORE
Excellent
Based on 26 Reviews
9
8
Elderberry reduces cold duration
Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.
Most Relevant Research
We explored whether elderberry could help reduce the duration and severity of colds for economy class passengers traveling internationally. In a well-structured randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 312 participants, we looked at how a standardized elderberry extract affected respiratory health during air travel.
Participants tracked their cold episodes, duration, and symptoms in daily diaries, using a scoring method to quantify their experiences. They also completed surveys about their upper respiratory symptoms and quality of life at different points: before traveling and four days post-travel.
While we noted that the group taking the placebo experienced more cold episodes, the difference wasn't statistically significant. However, those taking elderberry had a significantly shorter duration of cold days and a lower average symptom score overall, suggesting that elderberry may significantly lessen the impact of colds during air travel.
Further research is essential to validate our findings and to better understand the broader health benefits of elderberry, both physical and mental.
Participants tracked their cold episodes, duration, and symptoms in daily diaries, using a scoring method to quantify their experiences. They also completed surveys about their upper respiratory symptoms and quality of life at different points: before traveling and four days post-travel.
While we noted that the group taking the placebo experienced more cold episodes, the difference wasn't statistically significant. However, those taking elderberry had a significantly shorter duration of cold days and a lower average symptom score overall, suggesting that elderberry may significantly lessen the impact of colds during air travel.
Further research is essential to validate our findings and to better understand the broader health benefits of elderberry, both physical and mental.
9.5
Surprised by effectiveness
Most Useful Review
Wow. I truly believe this works. I heard about Sambucol from various sources and was sceptical; however, once I began feeling under the weather, I ordered it. I received it two days into my illness and took it as directed. Within 1-2 days, I felt better and managed to avoid a full-blown cold. It’s expensive, but I’ll buy it again!
Allergies details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 8 Researches
8.4
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.6
9
Zinc may relieve allergy symptoms
Alleviating effect of intranasal zinc on symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Most Relevant Research
We investigated how intranasal zinc (Zn) treatment affects symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR), specifically focusing on individuals suffering from Japanese cedar pollinosis (JCP), a common seasonal allergy. In our study, we monitored 57 control subjects and 44 patients from preseason through the allergy season, observing the levels of Zn in both nasal fluid and serum.
Our findings showed that after exposure to pollen, the level of zinc in the nasal lining fluid of JCP patients significantly increased, while their serum zinc levels notably decreased compared to the control group during the JCP season. To delve deeper, we used model mice that could mimic these changes and the allergy symptoms of the patients.
The results from this mouse study were promising. We observed that treating these mice with a dose of zinc, similar to what humans might use, led to a notable improvement in their allergy symptoms. Additionally, the number of mucin-secreting goblet cells, which indicate a response to allergies, significantly decreased following the zinc treatment.
Our study points towards the potential of using intranasal zinc as a way to alleviate allergy symptoms, suggesting a new approach to managing allergic rhinitis.
Our findings showed that after exposure to pollen, the level of zinc in the nasal lining fluid of JCP patients significantly increased, while their serum zinc levels notably decreased compared to the control group during the JCP season. To delve deeper, we used model mice that could mimic these changes and the allergy symptoms of the patients.
The results from this mouse study were promising. We observed that treating these mice with a dose of zinc, similar to what humans might use, led to a notable improvement in their allergy symptoms. Additionally, the number of mucin-secreting goblet cells, which indicate a response to allergies, significantly decreased following the zinc treatment.
Our study points towards the potential of using intranasal zinc as a way to alleviate allergy symptoms, suggesting a new approach to managing allergic rhinitis.
9.5
Amazingly effective
Most Useful Review
Absolutely amazing! This herb is exceptionally beneficial, especially during flu and cold season, as it strengthens the immune system. Personally, I rely on it to manage my seasonal allergy flare-ups. It is astonishing how effective this product is at controlling my allergies. I will never be without it!
Bronchitis details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 11 Researches
7.3
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 1 Review
8.6
9.5
Zinc accelerates bronchiolitis recovery
Zinc sulphate for acute bronchiolitis: A double-blind placebo-controlled trial.
Most Relevant Research
We investigated the effectiveness of zinc sulphate in treating acute bronchiolitis in children, aiming to uncover whether this supplement could help speed recovery. In our study, we closely examined 100 young patients diagnosed with the condition. Half of the children received oral zinc sulphate while the other half received a placebo.
Over the course of the treatment, we compared the clinical signs and symptoms between the two groups at several intervals: 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours after starting. Encouragingly, we observed that those in the zinc group showed a more favorable trend in recovery compared to the placebo group across all time points. Notably, significant differences were noted in improvements of coughing and wheezing at the 48 and 72-hour marks.
Remarkably, we found that 98% of the children who received zinc sulphate achieved full recovery within 72 hours of treatment—indicating a rapid response to the therapy. Our findings suggest that zinc sulphate can notably accelerate the improvement of clinical symptoms in acute bronchiolitis. Therefore, we feel confident recommending zinc sulphate as a helpful treatment option for this condition.
Over the course of the treatment, we compared the clinical signs and symptoms between the two groups at several intervals: 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours after starting. Encouragingly, we observed that those in the zinc group showed a more favorable trend in recovery compared to the placebo group across all time points. Notably, significant differences were noted in improvements of coughing and wheezing at the 48 and 72-hour marks.
Remarkably, we found that 98% of the children who received zinc sulphate achieved full recovery within 72 hours of treatment—indicating a rapid response to the therapy. Our findings suggest that zinc sulphate can notably accelerate the improvement of clinical symptoms in acute bronchiolitis. Therefore, we feel confident recommending zinc sulphate as a helpful treatment option for this condition.
9.5
Avoided bronchitis completely
Most Useful Review
An Ancient Remedy. Living with my brother's family, someone is often ill. Following a severe cold, I sought to boost my immunity using elderberry tea, a traditional remedy. Unable to collect my own elderberries, I opted for Sambucol due to its excellent reviews. After starting it, I managed to avoid getting sick while my family faced pneumonia and bronchitis. I now take it daily and ensure the kids do too, which has prevented further illnesses.
Cough details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 4 Researches
6.5
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.6
2
Zinc acetate ineffective for cough
Efficacy and tolerability of zinc acetate for treatment of chronic refractory cough: pilot randomised futility trial.
Most Relevant Research
We conducted a pilot trial to explore the effectiveness of zinc acetate in treating chronic refractory cough, a condition that causes significant discomfort for many people. In this study, we compared zinc acetate against a placebo over a period of six weeks, with the aim of measuring improvements in quality of life and cough symptoms using several established questionnaires.
Our group included 34 participants who were primarily white females suffering from moderate to severe cough. Throughout the trial, we noted that those taking zinc acetate did experience a rise in serum zinc levels, which indicates that the treatment was effective in that regard. However, when assessing the overall impact on cough symptoms and quality of life, both the zinc and placebo groups showed improvements, but those improvements were minimal.
Importantly, the treatment effects observed did not reach the clinically meaningful thresholds that would suggest zinc acetate significantly benefits cough management. Therefore, we concluded that there is no substantial advantage to using zinc therapy over placebo for people dealing with chronic cough, and suggest that larger trials are unnecessary at this time.
Our group included 34 participants who were primarily white females suffering from moderate to severe cough. Throughout the trial, we noted that those taking zinc acetate did experience a rise in serum zinc levels, which indicates that the treatment was effective in that regard. However, when assessing the overall impact on cough symptoms and quality of life, both the zinc and placebo groups showed improvements, but those improvements were minimal.
Importantly, the treatment effects observed did not reach the clinically meaningful thresholds that would suggest zinc acetate significantly benefits cough management. Therefore, we concluded that there is no substantial advantage to using zinc therapy over placebo for people dealing with chronic cough, and suggest that larger trials are unnecessary at this time.
9.5
Effective for cough
Most Useful Review
NUMBER ONE FOR SORE THROAT AND COUGH. This Sambucol Black Elderberry syrup tastes amazing and is healthy. It works better than what I used to get from my doctor for sore throats and coughs. I also appreciate that it boosts the immune system with high antioxidant levels. I recommend this product, and many would agree that doctors have never prescribed anything that tastes good. I bought the 7.8 oz bottle to ensure I have enough for a long time.
Ear Infection details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 11 Researches
7.4
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.6
9
Vitamin C aids ear infection recovery
Malignant external otitis and polymorphonuclear leukocyte migration impairment. Improvement with ascorbic acid.
Most Relevant Research
We observed that malignant external otitis (MEO), a severe infection of the outer ear often found in elderly patients with uncontrolled diabetes, can significantly impair the body's defense mechanisms. In a notable case, a 58-year-old man struggling with MEO had faced months of ineffective treatments.
To delve deeper, we tested the function of his immune cells, specifically his polymorphonuclear neutrophil leukocytes (PMNs), which play a crucial role in fighting infections. Our findings revealed that his PMNs had difficulty migrating to the site of infection, a critical step for addressing such health issues.
We discovered that ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, could improve this migration defect in laboratory tests. In practical terms, after just one month of vitamin C treatment, the patient's chemotaxis results normalized, and remarkably, his ear lesions began to heal.
Even though the exact reasons for the PMN dysfunction remain unclear, possibly due to factors like age and diabetes, this case highlights the importance of assessing PMN function in MEO patients and suggests that immunomodulators like vitamin C might offer a valuable treatment pathway.
To delve deeper, we tested the function of his immune cells, specifically his polymorphonuclear neutrophil leukocytes (PMNs), which play a crucial role in fighting infections. Our findings revealed that his PMNs had difficulty migrating to the site of infection, a critical step for addressing such health issues.
We discovered that ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, could improve this migration defect in laboratory tests. In practical terms, after just one month of vitamin C treatment, the patient's chemotaxis results normalized, and remarkably, his ear lesions began to heal.
Even though the exact reasons for the PMN dysfunction remain unclear, possibly due to factors like age and diabetes, this case highlights the importance of assessing PMN function in MEO patients and suggests that immunomodulators like vitamin C might offer a valuable treatment pathway.
9.3
Increased immunity
Most Useful Review
Living with my brother and his kids, I sought to boost my immunity. After a challenging cold season, I decided to try Sambucol, an elderberry product, upon hearing excellent feedback. As my family battled pneumonia, bronchitis, and ear infections, taking Sambucol faithfully helped me avoid illness completely. I’ve felt resilient and have not experienced any symptoms in the past two months. I highly recommend it to anyone in similar circumstances.
Mononucleosis details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 1 Review
8.6
9.5
Quick mononucleosis recovery
Most Useful Review
Nothing is better for flu and viral infections. Sambucol has been a staple in our family for over thirty years and never fails. A double-blind test in Israel proved it cures the flu in three days for 90% of users, in two days for 70%, and in one day for 20%. It cured my flu in two days and my son’s mononucleosis in under two days. We had to wheel him into emergency with blood pressure at 65 over 30 due to mono. The next day, I started him on Sambucol, and he woke up two days later with all symptoms gone. It simply works!!!
Pneumonia details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.6
9.5
Pneumonia management success
Most Useful Review
I absolutely love this elderberry brand! My son has significant health challenges and is immune-compromised. Thanks to Sambucol, he has had minimal illnesses. When he contracted pneumonia, we increased his dosage, and miraculously, he stayed out of the hospital after a
quick visit and some antibiotics. His recovery was swift; within 2-3 days, he improved greatly. I’m incredibly grateful to have found this syrup!
Sore Throat details
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 9 Researches
7.7
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.6
9.5
Zinc reduces postoperative sore throat
Preoperative oral zinc tablet decreases incidence of postoperative sore throat.
Most Relevant Research
We investigated the impact of dispersible zinc tablets on postoperative sore throat (POST) experienced by patients after endotracheal intubation. In our study, 88 patients were divided into two groups. One group received a 40 mg zinc tablet, while the other received a placebo 30 minutes before their surgery.
Our findings revealed that the zinc group reported significantly fewer instances of POST at the 4-hour mark compared to the placebo group. Specifically, only 6.8% of patients in the zinc group experienced POST, while a higher 31.8% in the placebo group did. Furthermore, none of the patients taking zinc reported severe sore throat, a stark contrast to three patients in the placebo group who did.
Additionally, we noted lower severity ratings for sore throat in the zinc group at various time intervals post-surgery. The results emphasize that taking zinc tablets before surgery can effectively mitigate the incidence and discomfort of sore throat following intubation, presenting a simple solution for a common postoperative issue.
Our findings revealed that the zinc group reported significantly fewer instances of POST at the 4-hour mark compared to the placebo group. Specifically, only 6.8% of patients in the zinc group experienced POST, while a higher 31.8% in the placebo group did. Furthermore, none of the patients taking zinc reported severe sore throat, a stark contrast to three patients in the placebo group who did.
Additionally, we noted lower severity ratings for sore throat in the zinc group at various time intervals post-surgery. The results emphasize that taking zinc tablets before surgery can effectively mitigate the incidence and discomfort of sore throat following intubation, presenting a simple solution for a common postoperative issue.
10
Avoided illness
Most Useful Review
Elderberry Rocks! As a grandma caring for two grandbabies, I used to frequently catch viruses from them. After starting elderberry, I began a daily dosing routine which has kept me healthy during exposures. I’ve avoided full-blown colds while others fell ill.
