Elderberry liquid is a syrup made from the berries of the elderberry plant. The elderberry plant, also known as Sambucus nigra, is a flowering plant that has been used medicinally for centuries. The berries and flowers are commonly used to make syrups, lozenges, and other natural remedies. Elderberry liquid has become increasingly popular in recent years due to claimed health benefits.
What are the key components of elderberry liquid?
The key components of elderberry liquid are:
– Elderberry juice – This is extracted from pressing fresh, ripe elderberries. It provides the base liquid for the syrup.
– Honey or sugar – This is added to sweeten the bitter tasting elderberry juice and make it more palatable. Honey also adds additional properties.
– Herbs – Some elderberry syrup recipes include additional herbs like cinnamon, cloves, ginger or echinacea for added flavor and potential benefits.
– Water – Some water may be added to dilute the thickness of the concentrated elderberry juice.
– Citric acid – Small amounts of citric acid help preserve the syrup by lowering the pH.
So in summary, the main ingredients are elderberry juice, sweetener, and sometimes complementary herbs, diluted with water and preserved with citric acid.
How is the elderberry liquid made?
There are a few key steps to making elderberry syrup:
1. Gather and prepare the elderberries – The berries are harvested in late summer when ripe and then stems, leaves and any unripe berries are removed. The berries are washed thoroughly.
2. Extract the juice – The berries are simmered on low heat with water for 30-60 minutes until softened. They are then strained to extract all the deep purple juice.
3. Make the syrup – The extract is combined with honey or sugar and briefly simmered until a thick syrup consistency is achieved. Some recipes also include herbs, spices, citric acid or other ingredients at this stage.
4. Bottle – The syrup is poured while still hot into sterilized glass bottles or jars and then sealed. This helps preserve the syrup.
5. Store – The finished elderberry syrup should be refrigerated or stored in a cool, dry place. Over time it may darken in color and thicken further. It can usually last 2-3 months if prepared properly.
So in summary, elderberry syrup is made by extracting the juice from the berries, adding sweetener and other ingredients, simmering it down, bottling while hot and then storing correctly.
What are the claimed health benefits of elderberry liquid?
Some of the potential health benefits associated with elderberry liquid include:
– Supports immune function – Elderberry contains antioxidants, vitamins and compounds that may boost immunity. Research indicates it may help relieve symptoms and shorten duration of colds and flu.
– Anti-inflammatory effects – Compounds in elderberry appear to reduce inflammation, which could help with conditions like asthma, sinusitis and arthritis pain.
– Antiviral activity – Test tube studies indicate that concentrated elderberry extracts can inhibit the flu virus from attaching to and entering cells, limiting replication.
– High antioxidant levels – As a dark purple berry, elderberries contain polyphenol antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress and free radicals.
– May lower blood sugar – Some research indicates elderberry may improve insulin sensitivity and lower fasting blood glucose levels.
– Supports respiratory health – Elderberry appears effective at relieving coughs, sore throat and nasal congestion. It may also help with nasal drip, bronchitis and sinus pain.
– May improve heart health – The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects of elderberry could help lower cholesterol, blood pressure and factors for heart disease.
However, more research is still needed to conclusively confirm some of these benefit claims in humans. But the results so far are promising in regards to elderberry’s effects on colds, flu, and general immune health.
What evidence is there to support the health claims?
Here is some of the key research that supports the potential health benefits of elderberry liquid:
– In a 2004 study, elderberry syrup significantly reduced flu symptoms and helped patients recover an average of 4 days faster compared to those not taking it.
– A 2009 study looked at air travelers taking elderberry extract. Those who took it were less likely to get sick with a cold or flu after flying.
– Researchers in 2016 found that elderberry extract inhibited the H1N1 influenza virus in test tube experiments. It also showed antiviral activity against Hepatitis B.
– A randomized trial in 2019 showed elderberry syrup shortened the duration of cold symptoms in air travelers by nearly 2 days compared to placebo.
– A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 2020 concluded that elderberry extract supplements provided a statistically significant improvement in upper respiratory symptoms caused by viral infections.
– A study in Australia found that elderberry inhibited replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in monkey kidney cells in vitro. More research is needed to confirm effects in humans against COVID-19.
– Several studies have identified the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune supporting compounds, like flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins, that may be responsible for its activity.
While more clinical trials are still needed, the initial research on elderberry liquid is promising in regards to reducing cold and flu symptoms. The main evidence stems from several peer-reviewed clinical trials that demonstrated measurable benefit.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Elderberry syrup is considered safe for most people when consumed in typical food-grade doses. However, there are a few potential risks and considerations:
– Uncooked or unripe elderberries contain a toxic compound called cyanogenic glycosides. These must be cooked properly to avoid nausea, cramps, and vomiting. Fully ripe, cooked berries are safe.
– Those with auto-immune conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis should use caution as elderberry could stimulate the immune system.
– Due to its possible effects on blood sugar, those taking diabetes medications should monitor levels closely when taking high doses of elderberry.
– Elderberry may interact with diuretics, laxatives, immune suppressing drugs or chemotherapy. Those taking medications should consult their doctor before using.
– Topical use may cause allergic reactions in those with sensitivity to elderberries. Discontinue if any irritation occurs.
– Elderberry syrup commonly contains honey, which should not be given to infants under 1 year old due to risk of infant botulism.
– Excessive doses may cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or constipation. Adhere to recommended serving sizes.
In moderation, commercial, properly prepared elderberry syrup is considered safe for general consumption in healthy individuals. Those with medical conditions or taking medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.
What is a typical dosage?
There is no official standard dosage for elderberry syrup. However, these are general dosage recommendations based on the reported research:
– For colds/flu – Take 3-5 mL (1/2 to 1 tsp) 4 times per day at the first sign of symptoms. Continue for 3-5 days until symptoms improve.
– For prevention – Take 1-2 mL (1/4 to 1/2 tsp) daily. Some take larger doses of 3-5 mL during flu season for preventative purposes.
– For children – Give 1/2 to 3/4 of the adult dose based on age and weight. Consult a pediatrician for guidance.
– For adults – The commonly used amount for acute illness is 15-30 mL (1 to 2 Tbsp) daily. For general immune support, 5 mL (1 tsp) taken 1-2 times daily.
– For dried powder – Recommended dosage is 300-500 mg once or twice daily. Reduce dosage for children based on weight.
These dosages are general guidelines only, not medical recommendations. When buying commercially prepared elderberry syrups follow the manufacturer’s suggested dosage on the label.
Are there any special precautions needed?
Those wanting to incorporate elderberry syrup as part of their health regimen should be aware of these precautions:
– Check for added sugar – Many commercial products contain very high amounts of added sugar, which may undermine possible benefits. Look for low or no sugar added versions.
– Use fully ripe, cooked berries – Only use elderberry syrups that state they were made from cooked, mature berries. Uncooked elderberries contain toxic compounds.
– Don’t exceed dosage – Stick to recommended serving sizes and don’t significantly exceed. Excess elderberry syrup may cause adverse effects.
– Consider possible drug interactions – Elderberry may interact with certain medications such as diuretics, laxatives, insulin, and immune suppressing drugs.
– Monitor blood sugar – Those with diabetes should monitor blood sugar closely when using elderberry syrup regularly due to possible effects on glucose levels.
– Don’t give to infants – Due to the risk of infant botulism from the spores sometimes found in honey, avoid giving elderberry syrup to babies under 1 year old.
– Caution if pregnant/nursing – There is limited safety data for elderberry use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Exercise caution or consult a doctor first.
– Avoid with autoimmune disease – Those with autoimmune conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis should use caution and consult a doctor first.
Following dosage guidelines carefully, choosing products wisely, and being aware of any potential interactions can help reduce risks and maximize the benefits of elderberry syrup. Those already on medications or with health conditions should consult their physician first.
How does elderberry liquid compare to taking elderberry pills?
Elderberry liquid syrup and elderberry capsules or gummies both provide elderberry’s key compounds, but there are some differences:
– Absorption – Liquids may be more readily absorbed compared to pills needing digestion. The increased bioavailability may make syrups more effective.
– Taste – Many prefer the pleasant, sweet taste of syrups compared to pills. Elderberry’s flavor is quite tart and bitter.
– Convenience – Capsules or gummies are more portable and convenient for travel or on-the-go use. Liquids may be messier.
– Ingredients – Syrups often contain additional ingredients like honey, herbs, and lemon. Supplements are more pure and standardized elderberry extract.
– Dosage – It may be easier to customize and adjust dosing with a liquid syrup compared to taking capsules.
– Price – Syrups are often more expensive ounce for ounce compared to pill supplements. But liquids allow flexibility in dosing.
For colds and flu, a pure elderberry syrup may provide maximum benefits and absorption. For immune support and prevention, standardized elderberry capsules are more convenient. Combine both for a comprehensive approach. Overall, liquids and supplements both deliver key elderberry compounds.
How does elderberry syrup compare to other remedies?
Here’s how elderberry syrup compares to some other common cold and flu remedies:
– Vs OTC medications – Elderberry provides more natural immune support, but OTC meds like decongestants may be stronger for symptomatic relief. The two can be combined.
– Vs Echinacea – Echinacea is another herbal immune booster, but some studies suggest greater antiviral activity in elderberry. The two herbs are sometimes used together.
– Vs Vitamin C – Vitamin C is a powerful everyday antioxidant. Elderberry offers more specialized support for colds/flu with its antiviral properties.
– Vs Zinc supplements – Zinc aids immune function but doesn’t have the antioxidant effects of elderberry. They are sometimes stacked together.
– Vs Honey – Both provide soothing relief for sore throats and coughs. However, elderberry has additional immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Overall, elderberry syrup has a very favorable safety profile and research shows it may enhance the immune response to colds and flu more effectively than some other natural remedies. However, it is not a panacea and other supplements or OTC meds may still be warranted for maximal relief of symptoms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, elderberry syrup is a traditional folk remedy that has become increasingly popular in recent years. When prepared properly from ripe, cooked elderberries, it appears to offer tangible immune supporting effects, particularly against cold and flu viruses.
Research, including randomized controlled trials, supports the use of elderberry syrup to both shorten the duration of colds and flu and help prevent infections. There are some risks to be aware of, but when used properly, elderberry syrup may be a useful addition to cold season health regimens or for general immune boosting purposes.
As with any supplement, it’s best used in combination with a healthy diet, good sleep and hygiene practices for optimal immune defense. Though more research is still needed, the evidence so far indicates elderberry’s use as an antiviral and respiratory health supplement is backed by science.
