Elderberry extract for immunity?

Traditional folk medicine describes numerous preparations made from natural ingredients that can be helpful during periods of weakened immunity. One of the best-known remedies for strengthening the body during colds and certain other illnesses is elderberry extract. It is characterised by a high concentration of substances with health-promoting properties and can be administered to the body in various ways.

1. Characteristics of elderberry
2. The effect of elderberry on immunity
3. Elderberry for weakened immunity

Characteristics of elderberry

Elderberry is a plant that grows in parts of Europe, North America, Asia and North Africa. The trees reach 2–4 metres in height, and their fruits are 5–6 mm in diameter and dark purple in colour. The branches bear characteristic white flowers with a pleasant, slightly rancid smell.

Both the flowers and fruits of the elderberry are used for therapeutic purposes. The fruits are also perfect for making syrups, wines, jams and cakes. In some regions of the world, the elderberry was called the holy tree because of its many uses.

The effect of elderberry on immunity

One of the reasons why elderberry is so popular is its effect on the immune system. Both the flowers and the fruit are rich in compounds with great health-promoting potential. The fruit is particularly important due to its high vitamin C content, while the flowers are characterised by the presence of specific bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antiviral properties. Both herbal raw materials are used in the production of infusions, syrups, lozenges and dietary supplements. Their potential can be successfully exploited, among other things, in the treatment of colds and flu.

There are indications that the active substances in elderberry may help to shorten the duration of the illness and alleviate its symptoms. This applies to a large extent to symptoms affecting the upper respiratory tract. The effectiveness of these compounds, apart from reports from traditional folk medicine, also seems to be confirmed by modern scientific observations.

Elderberry for weakened immunity

Elderberry and various elderberry products can be used both preventively during periods of increased colds and when it is already ‘too late’ and we have caught a cold. The substances contained in both the flowers and fruits strengthen the body and are considered safe. They can be used after self-preparation, e.g. in the form of tea made from flowers with fruit syrup, as well as in the form of ready-made extracts with high doses and high stability. The doses most commonly used for the prevention and treatment of colds range from 600 to 1500 mg of extract per day.