What You Need to Know
Before choosing which elderberry supplement you should take, it’s important to learn more about the supplement to see if it’s right for you.
Just like with any supplement, it’s important that you only purchase elderberry supplements from a trusted source. You can ensure safety and purity of products that have been third-party tested. Also, when possible choose products that have been GMP-certified.
Types
You can consume elderberry in several different forms, depending on your preference. You can make soup or broth from elderberry by mixing 2 ounces of elderberry syrup into hot water. Also, you can consume elderberry in the form of a tea, extract, juice, wine, or in capsules.
Benefits
Elderberry is most well-known for treating cold and flu symptoms. However, people also use elderberry to boost the immune system. Not to mention that people use elderberry to relieve pain of the sinuses, leg, back, headache, toothache, and nerve pain.
Research shows that elderberry extract can help reduce the length and severity of cold symptoms in air travelers. In this study, travelers were given 2 capsules of 300 mg for days ten to two before traveling. Then, travelers took three capsules equaling 900 mg daily the day before traveling and four days while traveling.
Cons
There are no adverse side effects linked with elderberry, however, due to a lack of knowledge of the safety in pregnant and breastfeeding women, such women are advised not to take the supplement. Experts also suggest that you should not take more than the suggested dosage.
Also, since uncooked leaves, stems, and raw or unripe berries contain a toxic substance, if it’s not prepared properly, it may cause nausea, vomiting, or severe diarrhea. Therefore, be sure to stick to elderberry supplements processed from a trusted source to be safe. Also, there are limited studies on the long-term effects of elderberry, so just take short-term as needed.
Anything else a shopper should know
If you have any food allergies or intolerances, be sure to check the label of the product you’re buying as some products may also contain other compounds to add flavor, texture, or structure.
Why Would You Take Elderberry Supplement?
Since the cold and flu symptom relief properties of elderberry are most well-studied, those with such symptoms would most benefit from the supplement. Other people may benefit from the antioxidant properties of elderberry, but should not rely on this supplement alone in treating illness. Therefore, use elderberry as a supplement to primary treatments for colds, flu symptoms, and pain for best results.