' 
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 11 Researches
7.4
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
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
Vitamin C aids ear infection recovery
Malignant external otitis and polymorphonuclear leukocyte migration impairment. Improvement with ascorbic acid.
Highly pertinent to treatment strategy
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.
Read More
5
Zinc's mixed impact on ear infections
Zinc supplements for preventing otitis media.
High relevance to ear infections
We explored whether zinc supplements could help prevent otitis media, which is a common ear infection affecting many, especially young children. Our examination included several randomized, placebo-controlled trials where participants received zinc supplements at least once a week for a minimum of a month.
In total, we identified 12 trials, but only 10 provided sufficient data for analysis. Among healthy children from low-income communities, most studies did not show a clear benefit of zinc on reducing ear infections. However, one trial with over 1600 participants did find a significantly lower incidence of otitis media in those taking zinc, suggesting that it might help. Additionally, a small study focusing on infants with severe malnutrition hinted at potential benefits, yet it is important to note this was based on limited data.
Overall, the evidence isn't definitive—while some results point towards positive effects, particularly in specific groups, many trials did not support the effectiveness of zinc in healthy children. Furthermore, zinc supplements appeared safe, with minimal reports of adverse effects.
In total, we identified 12 trials, but only 10 provided sufficient data for analysis. Among healthy children from low-income communities, most studies did not show a clear benefit of zinc on reducing ear infections. However, one trial with over 1600 participants did find a significantly lower incidence of otitis media in those taking zinc, suggesting that it might help. Additionally, a small study focusing on infants with severe malnutrition hinted at potential benefits, yet it is important to note this was based on limited data.
Overall, the evidence isn't definitive—while some results point towards positive effects, particularly in specific groups, many trials did not support the effectiveness of zinc in healthy children. Furthermore, zinc supplements appeared safe, with minimal reports of adverse effects.
Read More
7
Zinc's mixed impact on otitis media
Zinc supplements for preventing otitis media.
Evaluates varied health group effects
We analyzed the effectiveness of zinc supplements in preventing otitis media, or middle ear infections, through a detailed examination of various studies. The focus was on randomised, placebo-controlled trials where zinc was administered at least once a week for a month or more.
A total of 12 trials were evaluated, involving over 6,800 participants. While most studies, particularly those involving healthy children in low-income areas, showed no significant difference in the occurrence of ear infections between zinc and placebo groups, one trial did indicate a noteworthy reduction in the rate of otitis media among children receiving zinc supplements.
Additionally, a small trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition suggested that zinc may help decrease the number of ear infection episodes. However, the evidence remains mixed, especially for healthy children under five in lower income countries. In the end, while zinc supplements did not lead to serious side effects, some participants experienced mild vomiting after taking them.
Overall, while we found some positive indications for specific groups, the mixed results highlight the need for more research before concluding that zinc could be a reliable preventative measure against ear infections.
A total of 12 trials were evaluated, involving over 6,800 participants. While most studies, particularly those involving healthy children in low-income areas, showed no significant difference in the occurrence of ear infections between zinc and placebo groups, one trial did indicate a noteworthy reduction in the rate of otitis media among children receiving zinc supplements.
Additionally, a small trial involving infants suffering from severe malnutrition suggested that zinc may help decrease the number of ear infection episodes. However, the evidence remains mixed, especially for healthy children under five in lower income countries. In the end, while zinc supplements did not lead to serious side effects, some participants experienced mild vomiting after taking them.
Overall, while we found some positive indications for specific groups, the mixed results highlight the need for more research before concluding that zinc could be a reliable preventative measure against ear infections.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9.3
Increased immunity
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.
Read More
8.8
Doctor visits reduced
Works for us! I'm not an expert, but here's my experience with Sambucol: last winter, my young children had several colds and multiple doctor visits (my youngest had 3 ear infections). Starting in February, we gave them this syrup at the first sign of sickness, twice a day. Now, over a year later, we've made it through this winter without any sick visits to the doctor! They still had some colds but managed to avoid doctor visits with this syrup, honey, and healthy foods. Their immune systems are certainly more mature now, but I’m sticking to this routine as it saves us on doctor visits and the associated stress.
Read More
8.5
Better health observed
Effective. I suffer from chronic sinus infections and fibromyalgia, and both my doctor and massage therapist recommended Sambucol syrup. After my first bottle, I felt compelled to continue as it has noticeably improved my health. A recent upper respiratory virus led to bronchitis in my husband, but I only experienced a mild cold. This syrup seems to have decreased my susceptibility to infections. I genuinely feel like I'm developing an edge since I started taking it.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 11 Researches
7.4
9
Vitamin C aids ear infection recovery
[Pathogenetic validation of optimal antioxidant therapy in suppurative inflammatory otic diseases in children].
Supports combined treatment exploration
We explored the effects of vitamin C, alongside other antioxidants, in the treatment of ear infections in children, particularly focusing on middle ear inflammation. The study aimed to determine if these antioxidants could significantly enhance recovery from what can be quite painful and distressing conditions like purulent inflammation of the middle ear.
Through the trial, we combined ascorbic acid with retinol and alpha-tocopherol as part of a combined treatment approach. The results were promising, showing a high response rate in children suffering from these infections. This suggests that vitamin C and the other antioxidants may play a beneficial role in supporting the healing process.
Overall, the findings indicate that incorporating antioxidants like vitamin C into treatment regimens could potentially improve outcomes for young patients dealing with ear infections. While further research is necessary to confirm these benefits definitively, the initial results are encouraging and highlight an interesting avenue for more effective treatments.
Through the trial, we combined ascorbic acid with retinol and alpha-tocopherol as part of a combined treatment approach. The results were promising, showing a high response rate in children suffering from these infections. This suggests that vitamin C and the other antioxidants may play a beneficial role in supporting the healing process.
Overall, the findings indicate that incorporating antioxidants like vitamin C into treatment regimens could potentially improve outcomes for young patients dealing with ear infections. While further research is necessary to confirm these benefits definitively, the initial results are encouraging and highlight an interesting avenue for more effective treatments.
Read More
9
Vitamin C aids ear infection recovery
Malignant external otitis and polymorphonuclear leukocyte migration impairment. Improvement with ascorbic acid.
Highly pertinent to treatment strategy
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.
Read More
9
Nutraceuticals show promise for ear infections
Single-Center-Single-Blinded Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of a Nutraceutical Containing Boswellia Serrata, Bromelain, Zinc, Magnesium, Honey, Tyndallized Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Casei to Fight Upper Respiratory Tract Infection and Otitis Media.
Zinc's effect on ear infections unclear
We conducted a study to examine how a specific nutraceutical, which includes zinc, can support the treatment of ear infections in children. In our trial, 120 children were divided into three groups: a control group that only received standard treatment, and two treatment groups that received both the standard care and the nutraceutical.
The treatment involved the combination of Boswellia serrata, Bromelain, and other ingredients, including zinc, over 20 to 30 days. We used various methods, like otoscopy and auditory tests, to assess the children's health at the start of the study and after treatment.
Our results showed that both treatment groups performed better compared to the control group concerning measures like ear exams and hearing tests after treatment. However, while we observed improvements in the treatment groups, the specific impact of zinc alone could not be clearly determined given that it was part of a larger formula.
The findings highlight the potential of using this nutraceutical blend as a supportive therapy against upper respiratory infections in children, particularly with the inclusion of Boswellia and Bromelain for their anti-inflammatory properties. Nonetheless, we found it challenging to isolate zinc's individual benefit in this context.
The treatment involved the combination of Boswellia serrata, Bromelain, and other ingredients, including zinc, over 20 to 30 days. We used various methods, like otoscopy and auditory tests, to assess the children's health at the start of the study and after treatment.
Our results showed that both treatment groups performed better compared to the control group concerning measures like ear exams and hearing tests after treatment. However, while we observed improvements in the treatment groups, the specific impact of zinc alone could not be clearly determined given that it was part of a larger formula.
The findings highlight the potential of using this nutraceutical blend as a supportive therapy against upper respiratory infections in children, particularly with the inclusion of Boswellia and Bromelain for their anti-inflammatory properties. Nonetheless, we found it challenging to isolate zinc's individual benefit in this context.
Read More
8
Pediatric ear infection treatment study
Efficacy of complex herbal compound of Echinacea angustifolia (Imoviral® Junior) in recurrent upper respiratory tract infections during pediatric age: preliminary results.
Effectiveness of herbal compound evaluated
We evaluated the effects of a herbal compound that includes Vitamin C, among other ingredients, on recurrent upper respiratory tract infections in children. The study involved 37 kids suffering from conditions like pharyngotonsillitis and otitis media. The children received a treatment called Imoviral® Junior, which is a blend of Echinacea angustifolia, Arabinogalactan, Beta-Glucan, and Zinc, alongside Vitamin C.
Results showed that before treatment, children had an average of 3 inflammatory episodes over six months, which dropped to just 1. After completing the treatment, 77% of the children reported fewer episodes of inflammation. Additionally, their quality of life scores improved significantly. Importantly, there were no reported side effects from using this herbal compound, indicating a safe alternative for managing these conditions.
While this study demonstrates promising outcomes regarding the frequency of ear infections with the use of Vitamin C as part of an herbal blend, we should note that it does not provide specific insights into Vitamin C's individual role on its own. Considering that other compounds were also involved, isolating the effects of Vitamin C alone remains a challenge.
Results showed that before treatment, children had an average of 3 inflammatory episodes over six months, which dropped to just 1. After completing the treatment, 77% of the children reported fewer episodes of inflammation. Additionally, their quality of life scores improved significantly. Importantly, there were no reported side effects from using this herbal compound, indicating a safe alternative for managing these conditions.
While this study demonstrates promising outcomes regarding the frequency of ear infections with the use of Vitamin C as part of an herbal blend, we should note that it does not provide specific insights into Vitamin C's individual role on its own. Considering that other compounds were also involved, isolating the effects of Vitamin C alone remains a challenge.
Read More
8
Efficacy of herbal compound explored
Efficacy of complex herbal compound of Echinacea angustifolia (Imoviral® Junior) in recurrent upper respiratory tract infections during pediatric age: preliminary results.
Zinc effect not independently evaluated
We explored the effectiveness of a new herbal compound containing Echinacea angustifolia, along with ingredients like zinc, in treating recurrent upper respiratory infections, particularly ear infections (otitis media), in children. Our study involved 37 pediatric patients who regularly experienced pharyngotonsillitis or otitis media. They were given a treatment combining Echinacea, vitamin C, beta-glucan, and zinc for six months.
We observed a significant reduction in the mean number of inflammatory episodes before and after the treatment— from 3 episodes down to just 1. Moreover, 77% of the children reported a noticeable improvement in the frequency of these episodes, showing that the treatment may positively influence their quality of life. The results were further supported by an improvement in a quality-of-life questionnaire, albeit with the acknowledgment that no isolated effect of zinc was highlighted since it were used with other herbal ingredients.
While our findings suggest that the herbal compound may help alleviate symptoms of recurrent ear infections, it's essential to note that the combined effect of zinc with other ingredients makes it challenging to measure its isolated impact. However, overall, we find that the herbal compound is a promising option for enhancing pediatric health without any reported side effects.
We observed a significant reduction in the mean number of inflammatory episodes before and after the treatment— from 3 episodes down to just 1. Moreover, 77% of the children reported a noticeable improvement in the frequency of these episodes, showing that the treatment may positively influence their quality of life. The results were further supported by an improvement in a quality-of-life questionnaire, albeit with the acknowledgment that no isolated effect of zinc was highlighted since it were used with other herbal ingredients.
While our findings suggest that the herbal compound may help alleviate symptoms of recurrent ear infections, it's essential to note that the combined effect of zinc with other ingredients makes it challenging to measure its isolated impact. However, overall, we find that the herbal compound is a promising option for enhancing pediatric health without any reported side effects.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.6
9.3
Increased immunity
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.
Read More
8.8
Doctor visits reduced
Works for us! I'm not an expert, but here's my experience with Sambucol: last winter, my young children had several colds and multiple doctor visits (my youngest had 3 ear infections). Starting in February, we gave them this syrup at the first sign of sickness, twice a day. Now, over a year later, we've made it through this winter without any sick visits to the doctor! They still had some colds but managed to avoid doctor visits with this syrup, honey, and healthy foods. Their immune systems are certainly more mature now, but I’m sticking to this routine as it saves us on doctor visits and the associated stress.
Read More
8.5
Better health observed
Effective. I suffer from chronic sinus infections and fibromyalgia, and both my doctor and massage therapist recommended Sambucol syrup. After my first bottle, I felt compelled to continue as it has noticeably improved my health. A recent upper respiratory virus led to bronchitis in my husband, but I only experienced a mild cold. This syrup seems to have decreased my susceptibility to infections. I genuinely feel like I'm developing an edge since I started taking it.
Read More
