'
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 18 Researches
7.7
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 1 Review
8.6
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
Elderberry inhibits H1N1 flu infection
Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro.
Significant study on elderberry's effects
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.
Read More
8
Elderberry effective against flu pathogens
Inhibitory activity of a standardized elderberry liquid extract against clinically-relevant human respiratory bacterial pathogens and influenza A and B viruses.
Direct focus on influenza impact
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.
Read More
8
Vitamin C mitigates flu pneumonia
A new mechanism of vitamin C effects on A/FM/1/47(H1N1) virus-induced pneumonia in restraint-stressed mice.
Highly relevant study findings
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.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

10
Symptoms cleared fast
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

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 18 Researches
7.7
9
Immune booster for flu treatment
Red ginseng and vitamin C increase immune cell activity and decrease lung inflammation induced by influenza A virus/H1N1 infection.
Synergistic effects with limited isolation
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.
Read More
9
Zinc and flavonoids combat flu
Inhibition of Respiratory RNA Viruses by a Composition of Ionophoric Polyphenols with Metal Ions.
Study includes multiple treatments
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.
Read More
9
Elderberry enhances immune response
Polysaccharides from European Black Elderberry Extract Enhance Dendritic Cell Mediated T Cell Immune Responses.
Relevant to immune and flu response.
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.
Read More
9
Elderberry shows promise for flu relief
Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials.
Elderberry evaluated for flu treatment
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.
Read More
9
Elderberry inhibits H1N1 flu infection
Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro.
Significant study on elderberry's effects
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.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 1 Review
8.6
10
Symptoms cleared fast
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
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