Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 10 Researches
7.9
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.5
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Capsules
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Organic Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract
158 mg
†
Acerola (Malpighia glabra) fruit extract
550 mg
†
Top Medical Research Studies
8
We explored how a natural compound from black elderberry, known as cyanidin-3-sambubiocide, interacts with the influenza virus's neuraminidase. This study employed techniques like mass spectrometry and molecular docking to reveal how this anthocyanin effectively inhibits the enzyme responsible for sialidase activity.
Our findings are significant because they indicate that this anthocyanin binds to a specific area in the neuraminidase, known as the 430-cavity. This region is located away from critical residues that typically contribute to resistance against antiviral treatments. This unique binding location suggests that black elderberry could lead to a new class of antiviral medications that might circumvent current resistance issues.
Importantly, this study highlights the potential of black elderberry as a natural treatment option against influenza, shedding light on its molecular mechanism for the first time. Through this research, we can look forward to exploring new paths for influenza treatment without the concerns associated with traditional antiviral resistance.
Our findings are significant because they indicate that this anthocyanin binds to a specific area in the neuraminidase, known as the 430-cavity. This region is located away from critical residues that typically contribute to resistance against antiviral treatments. This unique binding location suggests that black elderberry could lead to a new class of antiviral medications that might circumvent current resistance issues.
Importantly, this study highlights the potential of black elderberry as a natural treatment option against influenza, shedding light on its molecular mechanism for the first time. Through this research, we can look forward to exploring new paths for influenza treatment without the concerns associated with traditional antiviral resistance.
Read More
9
We analyzed the effects of black elderberry, specifically its mono-herbal preparations, on adults suffering from influenza-like symptoms. The evidence, gathered from five clinical studies involving a total of 936 adults, suggests that these elderberry treatments can be beneficial if taken within 48 hours after symptoms start.
Participants reported a significant reduction in symptoms such as fever, headache, nasal congestion, and runny nose, often experiencing about a 50% improvement within just 2-4 days of starting the treatment. Importantly, the studies indicate that the treatments were well-tolerated, with very few adverse events noted and no serious side effects reported.
However, it's important to clarify that, at this time, there isn't enough reliable evidence to suggest that black elderberry can help with COVID-19 or be safely used by pregnant or nursing women. Overall, while black elderberry shows promise for reducing the severity of influenza symptoms, more research, especially regarding its effects on other viruses like COVID-19, is necessary.
Participants reported a significant reduction in symptoms such as fever, headache, nasal congestion, and runny nose, often experiencing about a 50% improvement within just 2-4 days of starting the treatment. Importantly, the studies indicate that the treatments were well-tolerated, with very few adverse events noted and no serious side effects reported.
However, it's important to clarify that, at this time, there isn't enough reliable evidence to suggest that black elderberry can help with COVID-19 or be safely used by pregnant or nursing women. Overall, while black elderberry shows promise for reducing the severity of influenza symptoms, more research, especially regarding its effects on other viruses like COVID-19, is necessary.
Read More
8
We explored the antiviral potential of black elderberry extract against H1N1 influenza in a study that utilized Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry (DART TOF-MS) alongside a Direct Binding Assay. This experimental approach allowed us to identify how components of elderberry interact with the virus without the need for complex separation or derivatization processes.
The results were compelling, showing that the elderberry extract could inhibit H1N1 infection with an IC(50) value of 252 micrograms per milliliter. Through our binding assays, we observed that specific flavonoids from the elderberry extract bind to H1N1 virions and prevent them from entering and infecting host cells.
Notably, we identified two key compounds—5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin and dihydromyricetin, both of which showed significant antiviral activity. The more potent of the two, 5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin, achieved an IC(50) value of just 0.13 micrograms per milliliter, showing that it could effectively block H1N1 infection at low concentrations.
These findings underscore the potential of elderberry as a natural remedy against influenza, particularly when compared to existing antiviral medications, which can be less effective or may have more side effects.
The results were compelling, showing that the elderberry extract could inhibit H1N1 infection with an IC(50) value of 252 micrograms per milliliter. Through our binding assays, we observed that specific flavonoids from the elderberry extract bind to H1N1 virions and prevent them from entering and infecting host cells.
Notably, we identified two key compounds—5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin and dihydromyricetin, both of which showed significant antiviral activity. The more potent of the two, 5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin, achieved an IC(50) value of just 0.13 micrograms per milliliter, showing that it could effectively block H1N1 infection at low concentrations.
These findings underscore the potential of elderberry as a natural remedy against influenza, particularly when compared to existing antiviral medications, which can be less effective or may have more side effects.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective against viruses
29 people found this helpful
Elderberry has proven effective against various viruses, including influenza. We have used it for 12 years, finding it beneficial in reducing symptom duration. A dose of two capsules or a spoonful three times daily can halve flu symptoms, making it an excellent choice for long-term wellness.
Read More
7.5
Immunity booster
13 people found this helpful
Black Elderberry is a staple supplement for my family. It’s renowned for enhancing immunity and is a fantastic aid against viruses and influenza. With the onset of seasonal viruses, I have started taking these capsules. I'm confident they'll bolster my immunity against these seasonal threats. Despite the high price, I appreciate the quality of this product and the manufacturer.
Read More
7.5
Effective against influenza
6 people found this helpful
Last year, I gave my child elderberry syrup during the cold season, and we experienced a relatively calm winter regarding viruses and influenza. This year, I’ve decided to stock up for the whole family. These capsules are designed for a one-month course, and I hope they will strengthen our immunity against seasonal illnesses. While I am fond of the product, I recognise that it is pricey, yet it is worth it.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 10 Researches
7.9
- All Researches
9
Black elderberry blend effective against influenza
We evaluated the antiviral properties of a unique blend made from black chokeberry and elderberry extracts against common respiratory viruses, including influenza A. This research involved testing both individual extracts and a combined blend to see how well they could inhibit the virus's ability to replicate.
Our findings showed that the combined extract, referred to as EAM-ESN, was particularly effective against the influenza A virus as well as a type of betacoronavirus closely related to the virus responsible for the current pandemic. Interestingly, while each extract had some antiviral properties, the combination was notably more effective than either extract alone. This suggests that the blend offers a synergistic effect that enhances its efficacy.
We also discovered that the EAM-ESN blend works best when administered after the virus has already established an infection, highlighting its potential for use in treating mild seasonal respiratory infections. Although results against other viruses like herpes and adenovirus were limited, the blend shows promise as a natural remedy for influenza and similar viral challenges.
Our findings showed that the combined extract, referred to as EAM-ESN, was particularly effective against the influenza A virus as well as a type of betacoronavirus closely related to the virus responsible for the current pandemic. Interestingly, while each extract had some antiviral properties, the combination was notably more effective than either extract alone. This suggests that the blend offers a synergistic effect that enhances its efficacy.
We also discovered that the EAM-ESN blend works best when administered after the virus has already established an infection, highlighting its potential for use in treating mild seasonal respiratory infections. Although results against other viruses like herpes and adenovirus were limited, the blend shows promise as a natural remedy for influenza and similar viral challenges.
Read More
9
We analyzed the effects of black elderberry, specifically its mono-herbal preparations, on adults suffering from influenza-like symptoms. The evidence, gathered from five clinical studies involving a total of 936 adults, suggests that these elderberry treatments can be beneficial if taken within 48 hours after symptoms start.
Participants reported a significant reduction in symptoms such as fever, headache, nasal congestion, and runny nose, often experiencing about a 50% improvement within just 2-4 days of starting the treatment. Importantly, the studies indicate that the treatments were well-tolerated, with very few adverse events noted and no serious side effects reported.
However, it's important to clarify that, at this time, there isn't enough reliable evidence to suggest that black elderberry can help with COVID-19 or be safely used by pregnant or nursing women. Overall, while black elderberry shows promise for reducing the severity of influenza symptoms, more research, especially regarding its effects on other viruses like COVID-19, is necessary.
Participants reported a significant reduction in symptoms such as fever, headache, nasal congestion, and runny nose, often experiencing about a 50% improvement within just 2-4 days of starting the treatment. Importantly, the studies indicate that the treatments were well-tolerated, with very few adverse events noted and no serious side effects reported.
However, it's important to clarify that, at this time, there isn't enough reliable evidence to suggest that black elderberry can help with COVID-19 or be safely used by pregnant or nursing women. Overall, while black elderberry shows promise for reducing the severity of influenza symptoms, more research, especially regarding its effects on other viruses like COVID-19, is necessary.
Read More
8
We evaluated how black elderberry might help strengthen the immune response against influenza and other viral infections. Through our analysis, we looked specifically at the impact of a water extract of elderberry and its polysaccharide-rich fractions on the activation of key immune cells known as dendritic cells (DCs).
Interestingly, we found that the water extract and its polysaccharide fractions did a remarkable job inducing the maturation of these DCs. In fact, when we tested the ability of these matured DCs to stimulate T cells, the results were significantly higher using the water extracts compared to immature DCs.
Conversely, the conventional alcoholic extract did not seem to have the same effect, highlighting the potential unique properties of the water extract. Additionally, the presence of the elderberry water extract led to a surge in the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are important indicators of an active immune response.
In conclusion, it appears that the polysaccharides in water-derived elderberry fractions can trigger a robust immune response, which could be beneficial in fighting off viruses like influenza. This suggests a promising avenue for using black elderberry as a natural booster for our immune systems.
Interestingly, we found that the water extract and its polysaccharide fractions did a remarkable job inducing the maturation of these DCs. In fact, when we tested the ability of these matured DCs to stimulate T cells, the results were significantly higher using the water extracts compared to immature DCs.
Conversely, the conventional alcoholic extract did not seem to have the same effect, highlighting the potential unique properties of the water extract. Additionally, the presence of the elderberry water extract led to a surge in the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are important indicators of an active immune response.
In conclusion, it appears that the polysaccharides in water-derived elderberry fractions can trigger a robust immune response, which could be beneficial in fighting off viruses like influenza. This suggests a promising avenue for using black elderberry as a natural booster for our immune systems.
Read More
8
Black elderberry alleviates influenza symptoms
We explored the effects of black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) on upper respiratory symptoms, particularly those related to influenza. Through a meta-analysis involving 180 participants, we addressed the growing demand for safer alternatives to conventional treatments like antibiotics and antiviral drugs.
Our findings indicated that elderberry supplementation significantly reduced the severity of upper respiratory symptoms commonly associated with cold and flu. The analysis evaluated various factors, including vaccination status and the underlying cause of symptoms, helping ensure a comprehensive understanding of how elderberry performs in this context.
Importantly, our results highlight black elderberry as a promising option that may help alleviate symptoms of viral infections. This offers a potential path forward for those looking to avoid the overuse of antibiotics for conditions like the common cold or influenza.
Our findings indicated that elderberry supplementation significantly reduced the severity of upper respiratory symptoms commonly associated with cold and flu. The analysis evaluated various factors, including vaccination status and the underlying cause of symptoms, helping ensure a comprehensive understanding of how elderberry performs in this context.
Importantly, our results highlight black elderberry as a promising option that may help alleviate symptoms of viral infections. This offers a potential path forward for those looking to avoid the overuse of antibiotics for conditions like the common cold or influenza.
Read More
8
We explored how a natural compound from black elderberry, known as cyanidin-3-sambubiocide, interacts with the influenza virus's neuraminidase. This study employed techniques like mass spectrometry and molecular docking to reveal how this anthocyanin effectively inhibits the enzyme responsible for sialidase activity.
Our findings are significant because they indicate that this anthocyanin binds to a specific area in the neuraminidase, known as the 430-cavity. This region is located away from critical residues that typically contribute to resistance against antiviral treatments. This unique binding location suggests that black elderberry could lead to a new class of antiviral medications that might circumvent current resistance issues.
Importantly, this study highlights the potential of black elderberry as a natural treatment option against influenza, shedding light on its molecular mechanism for the first time. Through this research, we can look forward to exploring new paths for influenza treatment without the concerns associated with traditional antiviral resistance.
Our findings are significant because they indicate that this anthocyanin binds to a specific area in the neuraminidase, known as the 430-cavity. This region is located away from critical residues that typically contribute to resistance against antiviral treatments. This unique binding location suggests that black elderberry could lead to a new class of antiviral medications that might circumvent current resistance issues.
Importantly, this study highlights the potential of black elderberry as a natural treatment option against influenza, shedding light on its molecular mechanism for the first time. Through this research, we can look forward to exploring new paths for influenza treatment without the concerns associated with traditional antiviral resistance.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.5
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Effective against viruses
29 people found this helpful
Elderberry has proven effective against various viruses, including influenza. We have used it for 12 years, finding it beneficial in reducing symptom duration. A dose of two capsules or a spoonful three times daily can halve flu symptoms, making it an excellent choice for long-term wellness.
Read More
7.5
Immunity booster
13 people found this helpful
Black Elderberry is a staple supplement for my family. It’s renowned for enhancing immunity and is a fantastic aid against viruses and influenza. With the onset of seasonal viruses, I have started taking these capsules. I'm confident they'll bolster my immunity against these seasonal threats. Despite the high price, I appreciate the quality of this product and the manufacturer.
Read More
7.5
Effective against influenza
6 people found this helpful
Last year, I gave my child elderberry syrup during the cold season, and we experienced a relatively calm winter regarding viruses and influenza. This year, I’ve decided to stock up for the whole family. These capsules are designed for a one-month course, and I hope they will strengthen our immunity against seasonal illnesses. While I am fond of the product, I recognise that it is pricey, yet it is worth it.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
7.5
Effective against influenza
6 people found this helpful
Last year, I gave my child elderberry syrup during the cold season, and we experienced a relatively calm winter regarding viruses and influenza. This year, I’ve decided to stock up for the whole family. These capsules are designed for a one-month course, and I hope they will strengthen our immunity against seasonal illnesses. While I am fond of the product, I recognise that it is pricey, yet it is worth it.
7.5
Immunity booster
13 people found this helpful
Black Elderberry is a staple supplement for my family. It’s renowned for enhancing immunity and is a fantastic aid against viruses and influenza. With the onset of seasonal viruses, I have started taking these capsules. I'm confident they'll bolster my immunity against these seasonal threats. Despite the high price, I appreciate the quality of this product and the manufacturer.
9
We analyzed the effects of black elderberry, specifically its mono-herbal preparations, on adults suffering from influenza-like symptoms. The evidence, gathered from five clinical studies involving a total of 936 adults, suggests that these elderberry treatments can be beneficial if taken within 48 hours after symptoms start.
Participants reported a significant reduction in symptoms such as fever, headache, nasal congestion, and runny nose, often experiencing about a 50% improvement within just 2-4 days of starting the treatment. Importantly, the studies indicate that the treatments were well-tolerated, with very few adverse events noted and no serious side effects reported.
However, it's important to clarify that, at this time, there isn't enough reliable evidence to suggest that black elderberry can help with COVID-19 or be safely used by pregnant or nursing women. Overall, while black elderberry shows promise for reducing the severity of influenza symptoms, more research, especially regarding its effects on other viruses like COVID-19, is necessary.
Participants reported a significant reduction in symptoms such as fever, headache, nasal congestion, and runny nose, often experiencing about a 50% improvement within just 2-4 days of starting the treatment. Importantly, the studies indicate that the treatments were well-tolerated, with very few adverse events noted and no serious side effects reported.
However, it's important to clarify that, at this time, there isn't enough reliable evidence to suggest that black elderberry can help with COVID-19 or be safely used by pregnant or nursing women. Overall, while black elderberry shows promise for reducing the severity of influenza symptoms, more research, especially regarding its effects on other viruses like COVID-19, is necessary.
8
We evaluated how black elderberry might help strengthen the immune response against influenza and other viral infections. Through our analysis, we looked specifically at the impact of a water extract of elderberry and its polysaccharide-rich fractions on the activation of key immune cells known as dendritic cells (DCs).
Interestingly, we found that the water extract and its polysaccharide fractions did a remarkable job inducing the maturation of these DCs. In fact, when we tested the ability of these matured DCs to stimulate T cells, the results were significantly higher using the water extracts compared to immature DCs.
Conversely, the conventional alcoholic extract did not seem to have the same effect, highlighting the potential unique properties of the water extract. Additionally, the presence of the elderberry water extract led to a surge in the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are important indicators of an active immune response.
In conclusion, it appears that the polysaccharides in water-derived elderberry fractions can trigger a robust immune response, which could be beneficial in fighting off viruses like influenza. This suggests a promising avenue for using black elderberry as a natural booster for our immune systems.
Interestingly, we found that the water extract and its polysaccharide fractions did a remarkable job inducing the maturation of these DCs. In fact, when we tested the ability of these matured DCs to stimulate T cells, the results were significantly higher using the water extracts compared to immature DCs.
Conversely, the conventional alcoholic extract did not seem to have the same effect, highlighting the potential unique properties of the water extract. Additionally, the presence of the elderberry water extract led to a surge in the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are important indicators of an active immune response.
In conclusion, it appears that the polysaccharides in water-derived elderberry fractions can trigger a robust immune response, which could be beneficial in fighting off viruses like influenza. This suggests a promising avenue for using black elderberry as a natural booster for our immune systems.
8
We explored the antiviral potential of black elderberry extract against H1N1 influenza in a study that utilized Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry (DART TOF-MS) alongside a Direct Binding Assay. This experimental approach allowed us to identify how components of elderberry interact with the virus without the need for complex separation or derivatization processes.
The results were compelling, showing that the elderberry extract could inhibit H1N1 infection with an IC(50) value of 252 micrograms per milliliter. Through our binding assays, we observed that specific flavonoids from the elderberry extract bind to H1N1 virions and prevent them from entering and infecting host cells.
Notably, we identified two key compounds—5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin and dihydromyricetin, both of which showed significant antiviral activity. The more potent of the two, 5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin, achieved an IC(50) value of just 0.13 micrograms per milliliter, showing that it could effectively block H1N1 infection at low concentrations.
These findings underscore the potential of elderberry as a natural remedy against influenza, particularly when compared to existing antiviral medications, which can be less effective or may have more side effects.
The results were compelling, showing that the elderberry extract could inhibit H1N1 infection with an IC(50) value of 252 micrograms per milliliter. Through our binding assays, we observed that specific flavonoids from the elderberry extract bind to H1N1 virions and prevent them from entering and infecting host cells.
Notably, we identified two key compounds—5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin and dihydromyricetin, both of which showed significant antiviral activity. The more potent of the two, 5,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methylquercetin, achieved an IC(50) value of just 0.13 micrograms per milliliter, showing that it could effectively block H1N1 infection at low concentrations.
These findings underscore the potential of elderberry as a natural remedy against influenza, particularly when compared to existing antiviral medications, which can be less effective or may have more side effects.
7
We investigated how elderberry extract influences influenza, specifically focusing on the H9N2 virus in human epithelial cell cultures. The study involved observing the effects of different concentrations of elderberry on the virus's ability to replicate and spread. By employing methods like virus titration and quantitative real-time RT-PCR, we gathered comprehensive data on the extract's impact.
We applied elderberry in two different ways: first, by pre-treating the virus with elderberry before infecting the cells, and second, by adding the extract to cells already infected with the virus. Interestingly, lower doses of elderberry seemed to boost viral replication, indicating no inhibitory effect from the extract. However, when we used higher doses, such as 40 and 80 μg/mL, we saw a significant drop in both virus production and viral protein synthesis.
Our results suggest that elderberry might interfere with the virus's entry or its release from the infected cells. This implies that elderberry can potentially alter the processes involved in how the influenza virus interacts with human cells, particularly concerning lipid rafts that play a crucial role in viral fusion and budding.
Overall, our findings illustrate that the timing and dosage of elderberry treatment can significantly influence its effectiveness against influenza viruses.
We applied elderberry in two different ways: first, by pre-treating the virus with elderberry before infecting the cells, and second, by adding the extract to cells already infected with the virus. Interestingly, lower doses of elderberry seemed to boost viral replication, indicating no inhibitory effect from the extract. However, when we used higher doses, such as 40 and 80 μg/mL, we saw a significant drop in both virus production and viral protein synthesis.
Our results suggest that elderberry might interfere with the virus's entry or its release from the infected cells. This implies that elderberry can potentially alter the processes involved in how the influenza virus interacts with human cells, particularly concerning lipid rafts that play a crucial role in viral fusion and budding.
Overall, our findings illustrate that the timing and dosage of elderberry treatment can significantly influence its effectiveness against influenza viruses.
References
- Ochnik M, Franz D, Sobczyński M, Naporowski P, Banach M, et al. Inhibition of Human Respiratory Influenza A Virus and Human Betacoronavirus-1 by the Blend of Double-Standardized Extracts of (Michx.) Elliot and L. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15. doi:10.3390/ph15050619
- Stich L, Plattner S, McDougall G, Austin C, Steinkasserer A. Polysaccharides from European Black Elderberry Extract Enhance Dendritic Cell Mediated T Cell Immune Responses. Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23. doi:10.3390/ijms23073949
- Harnett J, Oakes K, Carè J, Leach M, Brown D, et al. The effects of berry on acute respiratory viral infections: A rapid review of clinical studies. Adv Integr Med. 2020;7:240. doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2020.08.001
- Hawkins J, Baker C, Cherry L, Dunne E. Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials. Complement Ther Med. 2019;42:361. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2018.12.004
- Shahsavandi S, Ebrahimi MM, Hasaninejad Farahani A. Interfering With Lipid Raft Association: A Mechanism to Control Influenza Virus Infection By . Iran J Pharm Res. 2017;16:1147.
- Swaminathan K, Dyason JC, Maggioni A, von Itzstein M, Downard KM. Binding of a natural anthocyanin inhibitor to influenza neuraminidase by mass spectrometry. Anal Bioanal Chem. 2013;405:6563. doi:10.1007/s00216-013-7068-x
- Kinoshita E, Hayashi K, Katayama H, Hayashi T, Obata A. Anti-influenza virus effects of elderberry juice and its fractions. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2012;76:1633.
- Krawitz C, Mraheil MA, Stein M, Imirzalioglu C, Domann E, et al. Inhibitory activity of a standardized elderberry liquid extract against clinically-relevant human respiratory bacterial pathogens and influenza A and B viruses. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2011;11:16. doi:10.1186/1472-6882-11-16
- Roschek B, Fink RC, McMichael MD, Li D, Alberte RS. Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro. Phytochemistry. 2009;70:1255. doi:10.1016/j.phytochem.2009.06.003
- Vlachojannis JE, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. A systematic review on the sambuci fructus effect and efficacy profiles. Phytother Res. 2010;24:1. doi:10.1002/ptr.2729
