Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 18 Researches
7.7
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 86 Reviews
8.4
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
**
Top Medical Research Studies
9
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.
Read More
8
Elderberry effective against flu pathogens
We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a standardized elderberry extract against influenza viruses and respiratory bacterial pathogens. The study utilized liquid cultures to examine how various concentrations of the elderberry extract—specifically 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%—inhibited bacterial growth.
Our findings revealed that the elderberry extract is not just a potential ally against flu viruses, but also demonstrates activity against several harmful bacteria. We specifically tested its effects on both H5N1-type influenza A and influenza B viruses using reputable laboratory methods.
The results suggest that elderberry could offer additional strategies for combating infections, particularly during the flu season when complications often arise from bacterial super-infections following viral illnesses. These findings encourage the exploration of natural products like elderberry as a supportive treatment for respiratory infections.
Our findings revealed that the elderberry extract is not just a potential ally against flu viruses, but also demonstrates activity against several harmful bacteria. We specifically tested its effects on both H5N1-type influenza A and influenza B viruses using reputable laboratory methods.
The results suggest that elderberry could offer additional strategies for combating infections, particularly during the flu season when complications often arise from bacterial super-infections following viral illnesses. These findings encourage the exploration of natural products like elderberry as a supportive treatment for respiratory infections.
Read More
8
We examined the effects of vitamin C on pneumonia caused by the influenza virus, specifically the H1N1 strain, in mice under stress. The study found that when exposed to restraint stress, the mice experienced increased mortality and more severe pneumonia symptoms.
However, by giving them oral vitamin C at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg, we observed a significant reduction in these severe outcomes. Vitamin C seemed to modulate the expression of certain genes related to the immune response, such as MAVS and IRF3, and increased the expression of NF-κB, which plays a key role in the body's antiviral defense.
Our research suggested that vitamin C's protective effects might stem from its ability to inhibit excess cortisol production in the adrenal gland, which is often elevated due to stress. By lowering cortisol levels, vitamin C may help reduce susceptibility to influenza infections, making it a potential ally during the flu season, especially for those experiencing stress.
Through these findings, we highlighted a new mechanism for how vitamin C can be beneficial during influenza infections, particularly for those who are feeling overwhelmed.
However, by giving them oral vitamin C at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg, we observed a significant reduction in these severe outcomes. Vitamin C seemed to modulate the expression of certain genes related to the immune response, such as MAVS and IRF3, and increased the expression of NF-κB, which plays a key role in the body's antiviral defense.
Our research suggested that vitamin C's protective effects might stem from its ability to inhibit excess cortisol production in the adrenal gland, which is often elevated due to stress. By lowering cortisol levels, vitamin C may help reduce susceptibility to influenza infections, making it a potential ally during the flu season, especially for those experiencing stress.
Through these findings, we highlighted a new mechanism for how vitamin C can be beneficial during influenza infections, particularly for those who are feeling overwhelmed.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective flu treatment
290 people found this helpful
Excellent drug. Probably the best among this brand. At the first symptoms of a cold, the immunity support is superb. I buy it for my children, and I see the results. Colds genuinely pass faster and easier than other children in the class. Of course, it works best in combination with other medications. It has a record amount of antioxidants and significantly outperforms other plants in fighting the influenza virus. Black elderberry has diaphoretic, bactericidal, and anti-inflammatory effects. It's particularly effective on the first day, so should be used when the initial symptoms of the illness appear. Thanks to this product, I quickly recover from ARVI and flu.
Read More
10
Symptoms cleared fast
21 people found this helpful
Knocked cold/flu symptoms away in three days! I used it last winter and ordered early for the upcoming season. Initially, I felt a cold coming with mild symptoms, joint aches, coughing, and a low-grade fever. I took Sambucol as soon as I got home, and three days later, all symptoms had vanished. The cold/flu never progressed, and I was sold! The only suggestion is to make it less sweet. I highly recommend Sambucol and will repurchase.
Read More
9
Magic flu remedy
2 people found this helpful
A must-have for flu season! It's preventative, but when my 17-year-old son showed flu symptoms this year, I gave him this syrup, and like magic, the symptoms disappeared!
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 18 Researches
7.7
- All Researches
9
We set out to discover how red ginseng and vitamin C work together to enhance immune cell function and fight off viral infections like the flu. In our investigation, we treated human immune cells and specific types of mice unable to produce vitamin C, looking closely at their reaction to influenza A virus/H1N1.
Our findings were quite promising. We observed that both red ginseng and vitamin C elevated the activation levels of immune cells, particularly T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, known for their vital role in combating viruses. This combination not only helped boost immune cell activity but also reduced lung inflammation caused by the influenza virus, which is crucial for better survival rates during infections.
In cases where vitamin C levels were low in a specific mouse model, we noted that the added nutrients significantly improved their condition. They experienced reduced viral load and inflammation in their lungs after receiving red ginseng and vitamin C, compared to those without this supplementation. These insights suggest that while red ginseng and vitamin C collectively support immune health, the interplay of these substances can be crucial in managing flu infections effectively.
Our findings were quite promising. We observed that both red ginseng and vitamin C elevated the activation levels of immune cells, particularly T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, known for their vital role in combating viruses. This combination not only helped boost immune cell activity but also reduced lung inflammation caused by the influenza virus, which is crucial for better survival rates during infections.
In cases where vitamin C levels were low in a specific mouse model, we noted that the added nutrients significantly improved their condition. They experienced reduced viral load and inflammation in their lungs after receiving red ginseng and vitamin C, compared to those without this supplementation. These insights suggest that while red ginseng and vitamin C collectively support immune health, the interplay of these substances can be crucial in managing flu infections effectively.
Read More
9
We investigated the potential of zinc in combination with herbal polyphenols and copper to reduce the infectivity of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu. This study is particularly timely due to the ongoing challenges posed by viruses like SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the need for effective therapeutic solutions.
Zinc ions are known to play a role in modulating viral RNA replication, which makes them an appealing option for decreasing viral loads and infectivity. However, a significant challenge is that the natural concentration of zinc in our cells is often too low for effective results. To tackle this, we combined zinc picolinate, a form of zinc that’s easier for the body to absorb, with a range of flavonoids—natural compounds renowned for their antioxidant properties and existing antiviral effects.
We ensured that these combinations were safe by assessing their impact on cultured cells, confirming that they didn’t harm cell viability. When tested further, our results revealed an impressive 50-95% reduction in viral genome replication levels across a variety of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu virus, which suggests that this combination therapy could be promising in the fight against such illnesses.
Overall, our findings highlight an innovative approach to treating viral infections that is non-toxic, derived from nature, and may remain effective against emerging viral strains.
Zinc ions are known to play a role in modulating viral RNA replication, which makes them an appealing option for decreasing viral loads and infectivity. However, a significant challenge is that the natural concentration of zinc in our cells is often too low for effective results. To tackle this, we combined zinc picolinate, a form of zinc that’s easier for the body to absorb, with a range of flavonoids—natural compounds renowned for their antioxidant properties and existing antiviral effects.
We ensured that these combinations were safe by assessing their impact on cultured cells, confirming that they didn’t harm cell viability. When tested further, our results revealed an impressive 50-95% reduction in viral genome replication levels across a variety of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu virus, which suggests that this combination therapy could be promising in the fight against such illnesses.
Overall, our findings highlight an innovative approach to treating viral infections that is non-toxic, derived from nature, and may remain effective against emerging viral strains.
Read More
9
We explored how European black elderberry affects the immune response, particularly regarding flu infections. Through comparing its water extract and polysaccharide fractions to a traditional alcoholic extract, we focused on the role of dendritic cells (DCs), which are crucial for triggering strong T cell responses.
Our findings showed that the water extract and its polysaccharide components effectively matured DCs, enhancing their ability to stimulate T cells significantly. In contrast, the traditional alcoholic extract did not demonstrate any capacity to induce T cell stimulation.
We also observed that the water extracts promoted the production of key inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, contributing to a robust immune response, which may be beneficial in fighting off viruses like influenza. Thus, it appears that the polysaccharides from elderberry extracts can play a significant role in modulating the immune system, potentially equipping us to better combat viral threats.
Our findings showed that the water extract and its polysaccharide components effectively matured DCs, enhancing their ability to stimulate T cells significantly. In contrast, the traditional alcoholic extract did not demonstrate any capacity to induce T cell stimulation.
We also observed that the water extracts promoted the production of key inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, contributing to a robust immune response, which may be beneficial in fighting off viruses like influenza. Thus, it appears that the polysaccharides from elderberry extracts can play a significant role in modulating the immune system, potentially equipping us to better combat viral threats.
Read More
9
We assessed the effectiveness of black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in treating upper respiratory symptoms, particularly those associated with the flu. The study included 180 participants and examined various factors, such as vaccination status and the underlying causes of symptoms.
Our findings indicated that elderberry supplementation significantly reduced upper respiratory symptoms, offering a promising alternative for those seeking relief without relying on over-the-counter medications or antibiotics. The analysis revealed a strong positive impact, suggesting that elderberry could be particularly beneficial for treating symptoms arising from viral infections.
Overall, this research indicates that elderberry can serve as a safer, effective option for managing flu symptoms and common colds. This could help address concerns about antibiotic misuse and provide a more natural remedy during flu season.
Our findings indicated that elderberry supplementation significantly reduced upper respiratory symptoms, offering a promising alternative for those seeking relief without relying on over-the-counter medications or antibiotics. The analysis revealed a strong positive impact, suggesting that elderberry could be particularly beneficial for treating symptoms arising from viral infections.
Overall, this research indicates that elderberry can serve as a safer, effective option for managing flu symptoms and common colds. This could help address concerns about antibiotic misuse and provide a more natural remedy during flu season.
Read More
9
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.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 86 Reviews
8.4
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Effective flu treatment
290 people found this helpful
Excellent drug. Probably the best among this brand. At the first symptoms of a cold, the immunity support is superb. I buy it for my children, and I see the results. Colds genuinely pass faster and easier than other children in the class. Of course, it works best in combination with other medications. It has a record amount of antioxidants and significantly outperforms other plants in fighting the influenza virus. Black elderberry has diaphoretic, bactericidal, and anti-inflammatory effects. It's particularly effective on the first day, so should be used when the initial symptoms of the illness appear. Thanks to this product, I quickly recover from ARVI and flu.
Read More
10
Symptoms cleared fast
21 people found this helpful
Knocked cold/flu symptoms away in three days! I used it last winter and ordered early for the upcoming season. Initially, I felt a cold coming with mild symptoms, joint aches, coughing, and a low-grade fever. I took Sambucol as soon as I got home, and three days later, all symptoms had vanished. The cold/flu never progressed, and I was sold! The only suggestion is to make it less sweet. I highly recommend Sambucol and will repurchase.
Read More
9
Magic flu remedy
2 people found this helpful
A must-have for flu season! It's preventative, but when my 17-year-old son showed flu symptoms this year, I gave him this syrup, and like magic, the symptoms disappeared!
Read More
9
First sign treatment
1 people found this helpful
An excellent remedy for adults and children. It is more effective at the first sign of ARVI than children's antiviral drugs available in pharmacies. I believe that taking it at the first sign of a cold, if it doesn’t completely prevent flu, helps the child's body to cope with the illness more effectively.
Read More
10
Symptoms disappeared
Excellent! This is suitable for the whole family, from babies to grandparents. After drinking Sambucol, the flu symptoms disappeared immediately.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Works great
Works brilliantly when you just have the initial symptoms of the flu.
9
Saves from cold
This is our favourite syrup; it saves us at the first signs of flu and colds! The quality is superb! With zinc, vitamin C, and elderberry in excellent dosage, I notice improvement by the next day. It helps especially well with coughs.
9
Reduces flu duration
Experts state that Black Elderberry Syrup should be key in vitamin complexes aimed at strengthening immunity. Research shows it can reduce flu severity and duration by about four days, making it a significant ally in fighting the influenza virus.
9
Magic flu remedy
2 people found this helpful
A must-have for flu season! It's preventative, but when my 17-year-old son showed flu symptoms this year, I gave him this syrup, and like magic, the symptoms disappeared!
10
Symptoms disappeared
Excellent! This is suitable for the whole family, from babies to grandparents. After drinking Sambucol, the flu symptoms disappeared immediately.
9
Accelerates recovery
Elderberry effectively inhibits virus reproduction. Research shows that it can expedite flu recovery by four days compared to those not using it. It's combined with zinc and vitamin C to enhance immune function.
9
Natural boost observed
I recently tried Sambucol Black Elderberry Syrup with Enhanced Immune Support. The 120ml bottle is very convenient. The syrup has a natural berry flavour, making it enjoyable to take. I noticed that I got sick less often and recovered faster from minor ailments during the cold and flu season. Sambucol does not contain artificial colours or preservatives, important to me when selecting supplements. Overall, I have been very pleased with the results and recommend it for immune support.
9
Best flu remedy
Elderberry is the best cold and flu remedy for me. The quality is excellent, the ingredients are natural, and the taste is pleasant, which my children enjoy. At the first signs of a cold, I immediately give elderberry, and our illness quickly goes away.
9
First sign treatment
1 people found this helpful
An excellent remedy for adults and children. It is more effective at the first sign of ARVI than children's antiviral drugs available in pharmacies. I believe that taking it at the first sign of a cold, if it doesn’t completely prevent flu, helps the child's body to cope with the illness more effectively.
9
Effective flu treatment
290 people found this helpful
Excellent drug. Probably the best among this brand. At the first symptoms of a cold, the immunity support is superb. I buy it for my children, and I see the results. Colds genuinely pass faster and easier than other children in the class. Of course, it works best in combination with other medications. It has a record amount of antioxidants and significantly outperforms other plants in fighting the influenza virus. Black elderberry has diaphoretic, bactericidal, and anti-inflammatory effects. It's particularly effective on the first day, so should be used when the initial symptoms of the illness appear. Thanks to this product, I quickly recover from ARVI and flu.
9
Effective prophylaxis
I liked it a lot! It's a nice syrup that I give to my eldest son as a prophylaxis against colds and flu. Very pleased with the results; my immune system is excellent. I recommend buying!
9
Highly effective flu treatment
When I had the flu, I took this syrup three times a day. It worked wonders for me.
7
We examined how vitamin C supplementation can impact flu incidence and symptom duration. Our analysis of clinical studies indicated that vitamin C does show promise in reducing the risk of acute respiratory infections, including flu. Specifically, vitamin C reduced the likelihood of catching an acute respiratory infection by approximately 4% (risk ratio of 0.96).
Additionally, we observed that vitamin C also helps shorten the duration of flu symptoms by around 9%. This effect seemed to be more pronounced in men and people from middle-income countries, highlighting the complexity of health factors influenced by gender and socio-economic status.
Overall, while the findings suggest vitamin C can be a modicum of hope in managing flu symptoms, it isn't a standalone solution. Our results advocate for more research to fully understand the impact of vitamin C, especially in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by various respiratory viruses, including influenza.
Additionally, we observed that vitamin C also helps shorten the duration of flu symptoms by around 9%. This effect seemed to be more pronounced in men and people from middle-income countries, highlighting the complexity of health factors influenced by gender and socio-economic status.
Overall, while the findings suggest vitamin C can be a modicum of hope in managing flu symptoms, it isn't a standalone solution. Our results advocate for more research to fully understand the impact of vitamin C, especially in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by various respiratory viruses, including influenza.
9
We set out to discover how red ginseng and vitamin C work together to enhance immune cell function and fight off viral infections like the flu. In our investigation, we treated human immune cells and specific types of mice unable to produce vitamin C, looking closely at their reaction to influenza A virus/H1N1.
Our findings were quite promising. We observed that both red ginseng and vitamin C elevated the activation levels of immune cells, particularly T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, known for their vital role in combating viruses. This combination not only helped boost immune cell activity but also reduced lung inflammation caused by the influenza virus, which is crucial for better survival rates during infections.
In cases where vitamin C levels were low in a specific mouse model, we noted that the added nutrients significantly improved their condition. They experienced reduced viral load and inflammation in their lungs after receiving red ginseng and vitamin C, compared to those without this supplementation. These insights suggest that while red ginseng and vitamin C collectively support immune health, the interplay of these substances can be crucial in managing flu infections effectively.
Our findings were quite promising. We observed that both red ginseng and vitamin C elevated the activation levels of immune cells, particularly T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, known for their vital role in combating viruses. This combination not only helped boost immune cell activity but also reduced lung inflammation caused by the influenza virus, which is crucial for better survival rates during infections.
In cases where vitamin C levels were low in a specific mouse model, we noted that the added nutrients significantly improved their condition. They experienced reduced viral load and inflammation in their lungs after receiving red ginseng and vitamin C, compared to those without this supplementation. These insights suggest that while red ginseng and vitamin C collectively support immune health, the interplay of these substances can be crucial in managing flu infections effectively.
4
We investigated the effects of various compounds, including vitamin C, on the neuraminidase (NA) activity of influenza viruses, specifically H1N1 and H5N2. Neuraminidase is crucial for the virus as it helps release new viral particles from infected cells, making it a key target for antiviral treatments.
In this study, we focused on five different compounds that are structurally distinct from sialic acid, which is the natural substrate of neuraminidase. Among those tested, vitamin C was one of the compounds alongside others like acetyl phenylalanylmethionine and propanoic acid derivatives. We found that these compounds inhibited NA activity, but the degree of inhibition varied.
Notably, the inhibition we observed was in the millimolar range, which suggests that while there is some effect, the affinity of vitamin C to inhibit neuraminidase is moderate compared to the reference drug zanamivir. The IC values for the compounds ranged from 6.4 to 73 mM, indicating that they are not as potent as zanamivir.
Overall, our study presents vitamin C and other small organic molecules as potential lead compounds for developing new neuraminidase inhibitors, even if vitamin C’s impact on flu remains to be clarified as part of a broader analysis of multiple compounds.
In this study, we focused on five different compounds that are structurally distinct from sialic acid, which is the natural substrate of neuraminidase. Among those tested, vitamin C was one of the compounds alongside others like acetyl phenylalanylmethionine and propanoic acid derivatives. We found that these compounds inhibited NA activity, but the degree of inhibition varied.
Notably, the inhibition we observed was in the millimolar range, which suggests that while there is some effect, the affinity of vitamin C to inhibit neuraminidase is moderate compared to the reference drug zanamivir. The IC values for the compounds ranged from 6.4 to 73 mM, indicating that they are not as potent as zanamivir.
Overall, our study presents vitamin C and other small organic molecules as potential lead compounds for developing new neuraminidase inhibitors, even if vitamin C’s impact on flu remains to be clarified as part of a broader analysis of multiple compounds.
8
We examined the effects of vitamin C on pneumonia caused by the influenza virus, specifically the H1N1 strain, in mice under stress. The study found that when exposed to restraint stress, the mice experienced increased mortality and more severe pneumonia symptoms.
However, by giving them oral vitamin C at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg, we observed a significant reduction in these severe outcomes. Vitamin C seemed to modulate the expression of certain genes related to the immune response, such as MAVS and IRF3, and increased the expression of NF-κB, which plays a key role in the body's antiviral defense.
Our research suggested that vitamin C's protective effects might stem from its ability to inhibit excess cortisol production in the adrenal gland, which is often elevated due to stress. By lowering cortisol levels, vitamin C may help reduce susceptibility to influenza infections, making it a potential ally during the flu season, especially for those experiencing stress.
Through these findings, we highlighted a new mechanism for how vitamin C can be beneficial during influenza infections, particularly for those who are feeling overwhelmed.
However, by giving them oral vitamin C at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg, we observed a significant reduction in these severe outcomes. Vitamin C seemed to modulate the expression of certain genes related to the immune response, such as MAVS and IRF3, and increased the expression of NF-κB, which plays a key role in the body's antiviral defense.
Our research suggested that vitamin C's protective effects might stem from its ability to inhibit excess cortisol production in the adrenal gland, which is often elevated due to stress. By lowering cortisol levels, vitamin C may help reduce susceptibility to influenza infections, making it a potential ally during the flu season, especially for those experiencing stress.
Through these findings, we highlighted a new mechanism for how vitamin C can be beneficial during influenza infections, particularly for those who are feeling overwhelmed.
References
- Abioye AI, Bromage S, Fawzi W. Effect of micronutrient supplements on influenza and other respiratory tract infections among adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Glob Health. 2021;6. doi:10.1136/bmjgh-2020-003176
- Márquez-Domínguez L, Reyes-Leyva J, Herrera-Camacho I, Santos-López G, Scior T. Five Novel Non-Sialic Acid-Like Scaffolds Inhibit In Vitro H1N1 and H5N2 Neuraminidase Activity of Influenza a Virus. Molecules. 2020;25. doi:10.3390/molecules25184248
- Kim H, Jang M, Kim Y, Choi J, Jeon J, et al. Red ginseng and vitamin C increase immune cell activity and decrease lung inflammation induced by influenza A virus/H1N1 infection. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2016;68:406. doi:10.1111/jphp.12529
- Wang H, Xu R, Shi Y, Si L, Jiao P, et al. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel L-ascorbic acid-conjugated pentacyclic triterpene derivatives as potential influenza virus entry inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem. 2016;110:376. doi:10.1016/j.ejmech.2016.01.005
- Cai Y, Li YF, Tang LP, Tsoi B, Chen M, et al. A new mechanism of vitamin C effects on A/FM/1/47(H1N1) virus-induced pneumonia in restraint-stressed mice. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:675149. doi:10.1155/2015/675149
- Muniz FWMG, Casarin M, Pola NM, Rösing CK, Silveira TMD, et al. Efficacy of regular gargling with a cetylpyridinium chloride plus zinc containing mouthwash can reduce upper respiratory symptoms. PLoS One. 2025;20:e0316807. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0316807
- Nishi K, Yoshimoto S, Nishi S, Nishi T, Nishi R, et al. Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy Down-regulates the Expression of Cav1.2: A Key Molecule in Influenza Virus Entry. In Vivo. 2022;36:2357. doi:10.21873/invivo.12967
- Kreiser T, Zaguri D, Sachdeva S, Zamostiano R, Mograbi J, et al. Inhibition of Respiratory RNA Viruses by a Composition of Ionophoric Polyphenols with Metal Ions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15. doi:10.3390/ph15030377
- Nakashima A, Horio Y, Suzuki K, Isegawa Y. Antiviral Activity and Underlying Action Mechanism of Euglena Extract against Influenza Virus. Nutrients. 2021;13. doi:10.3390/nu13113911
- Sadeghsoltani F, Mohammadzadeh I, Safari MM, Hassanpour P, Izadpanah M, et al. Zinc and Respiratory Viral Infections: Important Trace Element in Anti-viral Response and Immune Regulation. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2022;200:2556. doi:10.1007/s12011-021-02859-z
- 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
- Wieland LS, Piechotta V, Feinberg T, Ludeman E, Hutton B, et al. Elderberry for prevention and treatment of viral respiratory illnesses: a systematic review. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2021;21:112. doi:10.1186/s12906-021-03283-5
- 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.
- Holst L, Havnen GC, Nordeng H. Echinacea and elderberry-should they be used against upper respiratory tract infections during pregnancy?. Front Pharmacol. 2014;5:31. doi:10.3389/fphar.2014.00031
- 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
