Elderberry

What is elderberry?

Elderberries are the small, dark purple fruits of the black elder, Sambucus nigra, a shrub that grows wild across Europe. The berries are rich in natural colour pigments called anthocyanins. Supplements use elderberry extract or juice concentrate, and many are standardised – the label then states the anthocyanin content.

Elderberry comes in several forms:

• Capsules – a measured amount of extract.
• Syrups and liquids – often sweet; check the sugar content on the label.
• Gummies and chewables – some made for children; follow the age stated on the label.
• Lozenges – to let dissolve slowly in the mouth.

Our range

• NOW Foods Elderberry 500 mg and Elderberry Liquid.
• NOW Foods Sambucus Zinc-C – lozenges with elderberry, zinc and vitamin C.
• Swanson Elderberry, Elderberry Extract Syrup and Elderberry Gummies with Zinc & Vitamin C.
• Nature's Answer Sambucus, Sambucus Daily Gummies and Kid's Sambucus Chewables.
• Garden of Life mykind Organics Elderberry – certified organic.

Elderberry with vitamin C and zinc

Several products combine elderberry with vitamin C and zinc. For these two nutrients there is an authorised claim: vitamin C and zinc contribute to the normal function of the immune system. This applies to the vitamin C and zinc in the product, not to the elderberry.

What to look for on the label

• Extract and standardisation: the amount of extract per serving and, where given, the anthocyanin content.
• Added nutrients: with or without vitamin C and zinc.
• Sugar and sweeteners: especially in syrups and gummies.
• Organic certification: for example the Garden of Life range.
• Dose and age: follow the directions on the label.

Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet. If you take medicines or are pregnant, ask your doctor first.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between elderberry and sambucus?

There is none: Sambucus is the Latin name of the elder genus. Products called Sambucus contain extract of black elderberry, Sambucus nigra.

Are there elderberry products for children?

Yes, for example Nature's Answer Kid's Sambucus Chewables. Always follow the age and the dose given on the label.

Syrup, gummies or capsules?

It is a matter of taste and convenience. Syrups and gummies are sweet and pleasant to take, capsules are free of sugar and easy to carry.