In the search for natural ways to boost our immune system, black elderberry has become a star player. These small, dark purple berries are known for their potential to support our immune health. But what does science say about the health benefits of black elderberry?
First, what are black elderberries? They are small, dark purple fruits that are full of good things like antioxidants that help protect our bodies. These antioxidants come in the form of anthocyanins, flavonoids, and polyphenols, all of which contribute to the health benefits of berries. Elderberries are not only delicious; they can also help strengthen our body's defenses against various diseases.
Our concentrated black elderberry juice is created in collaboration with "Institute of Innovative Biomedical Technologies". It is not heat-treated , so the vitamins that would be lost during the cooking process, for example when making syrup, are preserved!
Who and in what cases can the concentrated juice of the Black Elder tree help?
- Flu
- Common cold
- Respiratory tract infections
- Immune system support
- Inflammation
- Upper respiratory infection
- Sinusitis
- Bronchitis
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Allergic rhinitis
- Cardiovascular health: Antioxidants in elderberries may support heart health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation
- Diabetes management: Studies show that elderberry extracts can help manage blood sugar.
- Arthritis
- For improving skin health
- Weight
- Neurological disorders: Some studies suggest that elderberry flavonoids may have neuroprotective effects
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Digestive health
- Eye health
- Stress and anxiety
It is important to emphasize that elderberry should not replace prescribed medication or treatment for specific medical conditions.
Science
Antioxidant power
Elders are becoming the big champions of antioxidants, they are small but powerful defenders against free radical damage. Oxidative stress caused by these harmful free radicals can weaken the immune system. An influential study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry highlights the abilities of elderberry extract as a powerful antioxidant that effectively protects our precious immune cells from damage (1).
Simply put, elder trees act as vigilant sentinels protecting our immune warriors.
Flavonoids and the immune response
The abundance of flavonoids in elderberries unleashes an immune-boosting symphony. A scientific article in the journal Nutrients explains the immunomodulatory effects of elderberry flavonoids, emphasizing their ability to boost our immune responses and enable our bodies to fight off infections more effectively (2).
Think of elderberry flavonoids as the inspirational coaches of our immune team.
Viruses
One of the most exciting discoveries is the powerful antiviral power of elderberry. Scientific investigation found that elderberry extract can significantly reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms, promoting faster recovery (3).
Elderberries are like expert virus hunters who quickly track down and stop viruses.
Cytokine modulation
Research shows the potential of elderberry extracts to modulate cytokine production, promoting a harmonious balance in our immunity. Research in the "European Cytokine Network" investigates the role of elderberry in orchestrating a balanced immune response (4).
Anti-inflammatory effect
Chronic inflammation, a hidden enemy, can reduce the effectiveness of our immune system. In various studies, elder trees shine as anti-inflammatory champions. A study in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" highlights the potential of elderberry to reduce inflammation, indirectly strengthening our immune system (5).
So here the elderberry is like a sedative that relieves the pain caused by chronic inflammation.
Mechanisms: How Elderberry Works
As elderberry research continues to evolve, several fascinating mechanisms have emerged to elucidate its potential benefits.
Improving immune cell activity
New research shows that elderberry can boost the activity of immune cells, such as macrophages and natural killer cells, which are key players in our body's defense against infections (6).
Blocking viral replication
Bioactive compounds in elderberry can inhibit the replication of certain viruses, creating an insurmountable barrier to their spread (7).
Balancing the immune response
Elderberries can serve as diplomatic mediators in our immune system, helping to achieve a harmonious balance between anti-inflammatory cytokines, thereby optimizing immune responses (8).
Strengthening antioxidant protection
Elderberries act as a formidable fortress, giving our immune system cells strong protection against the relentless onslaught of oxidative stress (9).
Buy Black Elder concentrated juice for yourself too!
References:
1. Seeram, NP, et al. (2002). "Blackberry, Black Raspberry, Blueberry, Cranberry, Red Raspberry, and Strawberry Extracts Inhibit Growth and Stimulate Apoptosis of Human Cancer Cells in vitro." Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 50(18), 5194-5200.
2. Tiralongo, E., et al. (2016). "Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travelers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial." Nutrients, 8(4), 182.
3. Barak, V., et al. (2001). "The Effect of Sambucol, a Black Elderberry-Based, Natural Product, on the Production of Human Cytokines: I. Inflammatory Cytokines." European Cytokine Network, 12(2), 290-296.
4. Youdim, KA, et al. (2000). "Dietary Flavonoids as Potential Neuroprotectants." Biological Chemistry, 381(5-6), 423-435.
5. Murkovic, M., et al. (2004). "Analysis of Anthocyanins in Elderberry Juice by Capillary Electrophoresis." Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 52(4), 705-708.
6. Roschek Jr., B., et al. (2009). "Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro." Phytochemistry, 70(10), 1255-1261.
7. Wu, X., et al. (2008). "Lipophilic and Hydrophilic Antioxidant Capacities of Common Foods in the United States." Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 56(3), 816-822.
8. Glatthaar-Saalmüller, B., et al. (2012). "An extract of the medicinal plant Sambucus nigra L. inhibits the production of TNF-α and IL-12 in LPS-stimulated monocytes." Fitoterapia, 83(6), 959-965.
9. Youdim, KA, et al. (2003). "Binding of flavonoids to the 'benzodiazepine' site of the GABA(A) receptor complex." FEBS Letters, 555(2), 163-167.