Many people take elderberry gummies to help treat colds and flu. It’s also available in syrup and capsule form. Look for a product that is high quality, third-party tested and properly dosed.
This natural supplement may reduce inflammation and increase the effectiveness of antibiotics. It is also a good source of vitamin C and zinc.
Reduces Cold Symptoms
Zinc is a mineral that has been shown to support healthy immune system function and inhibit the replication of viruses. Studies have also found that it can reduce the length and severity of common cold symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, congestion, coughing and sore throat.
A recent rapid systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials concluded that oral zinc supplements can reduce the duration of cold and flu symptoms. The research specifically looked at trials that compared the effect of zinc lozenges and syrup to placebo in treating colds and influenza. The study noted that, on average, participants who took zinc were symptom-free for two days longer than those who did not take the supplement.
Some studies have found that taking elderberry can help reduce the duration of a cold, but more research is needed. However, elderberry extract is a popular ingredient in many natural remedies, as it is thought to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune modulating properties.
If you’re interested in using a natural supplement to help fight off a common cold or flu, try our Zinc Elderberry ActivMelt capsules. The formula contains immune boosting ingredients like elderberry extract and vitamin C, along with zinc to give your body the extra boost it needs to fight off germs and stay well. Each capsule is made with clean ingredients and flavors, and our ActivMelts are tested for purity and identity – because you deserve the best.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Zinc is an essential nutrient involved in over 300 different enzymes in the body, and is crucial for immune system health. A zinc deficiency can contribute to oxidative stress, which may lead to chronic disease. Research suggests that zinc supplements can help fight oxidative damage and support healthy inflammatory responses.
In one study, elderberry extract shortened the duration of cold and flu symptoms when consumed in lozenge form. This effect was most pronounced when the elderberry was taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. Elderberry was also shown to kill H1N1 (swine flu) virus in lab studies.
The anti-inflammatory properties of elderberry can help alleviate cold and flu symptoms, as well as support cognitive health. Elderberry is a natural source of flavonoids, including anthocyanins, which are phytochemicals known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help to maintain normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels, while reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health.
Aside from its immune-boosting benefits, zinc is important for wound healing and plays a role in maintaining normal skin structure. Zinc supports cell growth, enhances the activity of natural killer cells and helps to preserve mucous membrane integrity as a protective barrier against pathogens.
Several human clinical studies have shown that zinc supplementation can reduce the level of the pro-inflammatory substance IL-6 in the body. In these studies, zinc was administered in the form of gluconate or sulfate and was given for a duration of 4 to 72 weeks.
Our NOW® Elderberry & Zinc supplement is made with a proprietary elderberry concentrate formulated with zinc and vitamin C to provide immune support*. The addition of echinacea, slippery elm and propolis completes this formula to deliver additional herbal support.
Respiratory Health
The respiratory health benefits of zinc and elderberry come together in a powerful duo that helps to maintain healthy immune function. Zinc is a mineral that promotes the function of immune cells and enhances their ability to protect against infection and heal wounds. It is also important for maintaining the integrity of mucous membranes, which serve as barriers against pathogens.
Research shows that consuming elderberry can reduce inflammation in the body, as well as inhibit inflammatory proteins called cytokines. In addition, it has been shown to be able to shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms. In fact, one review found that when ingested as a supplement, elderberry was able to decrease the symptom duration in over half of the studies reviewed.
While the evidence to support the benefits of dietary elderberry is strong, more high-quality human studies are needed to determine whether it can actually prevent or cure a cold or flu. Regardless, it is recommended that anyone who plans to use elderberry extract supplements do so in conjunction with other natural remedies known for their ability to support immune and respiratory health, such as vitamin C and echinacea.
To ensure you are getting the most benefit from your zinc and elderberry supplement, look for a product that contains both ingredients in a highly bioavailable form. This may be in the form of a gummy or lozenge. Additionally, be sure to read the label to make sure you are consuming an appropriate dosage of each ingredient. Finally, before making any significant changes to your nutritional regimen, be sure to consult a healthcare professional. Their knowledge will help you to find the best supplements to support your specific health needs and goals.
Cognitive Health
Zinc is a mineral that can support cognitive health by maintaining a healthy balance of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage DNA and cell membranes, leading to oxidative stress. The antioxidant properties of zinc help counteract this damage by neutralizing free radicals.
Elderberries are rich in anthocyanins, which are a group of flavonoids with reported anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and immune-modulating properties. Consuming a diet that is rich in anthocyanins has been linked to better cardiovascular health, lower blood sugar levels, and improved mood.
A recent randomized placebo-controlled trial of 312 air travelers showed that those who took elderberry extract a few days before, during and after their flight experienced less severe cold and flu symptoms than those who did not take the supplement. Furthermore, the researchers found that those who had a high Vitamin C intake and were taking cholinesterase inhibitors (drugs used to treat Alzheimer’s disease) saw an even greater improvement in their symptoms than those who did not take the drug.
Adding elderberries to your daily routine can also promote cognitive health by supporting your brain function. You can find them in a wide variety of supplements, including syrups, lozenges, and capsules. To get the most benefits, look for a product that contains both elderberry and zinc.
In addition, choose a supplement that is USDA-certified organic to ensure that you are getting the most potent and pure form of these two ingredients. The label should clearly indicate the amount of elderberry extract in each capsule, gummy or serving of syrup. It is also important to make sure you are not consuming it with any medications that may interact with the herb.
Immune Boosting
A healthy immune system is like a fortress, protecting us from foreign invaders. But like any military strategy, it’s important to build several lines of defense to keep out the bad guys. A well-rounded diet and dietary supplements like elderberry, vitamin C and zinc can help strengthen your immune system to help fight off the common cold, infections and other health concerns.
The nutrient-dense elderberry is rich in vitamins and minerals such as potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C and iron, giving it antioxidant properties to help combat oxidative stress and free radical damage to cells. It also has immunostimulant properties, encouraging the production of cytokines to help fight infection and support the body’s natural defense systems.
Several clinical studies have supported the antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits of elderberry, as well as its ability to reduce the duration of colds. In addition, research shows that the trace mineral zinc plays a role in immune function and helps keep respiratory tract tissues healthy.*
Zinc is an essential nutrient that supports normal immune response and is important for cellular metabolism, wound healing and cognitive health. It is found in a variety of foods, including oysters, pork, beef, beans, nuts and whole grains. The Recommended Daily Amount (RDA) of zinc for adults is 2-13 mg.
NOW’s Curcumin Zinc, Elderberry & D Lozenges deliver a combination of ingredients to help fortify the immune system, including a clinically studied curcumin extract, elderberry concentrate and zinc—all known for their immune-boosting properties. Additionally, we’ve included propolis and slippery elm for additional respiratory and immune support.
