Zarbee’s black elderberry syrup is a natural supplement that is used to help support immune health. It contains black elderberry extract, which is known for its high antioxidant levels and ability to help fight off cold and flu viruses.
What are the active ingredients in zarbee’s black elderberry syrup?
The main active ingredient in zarbee’s black elderberry syrup is black elderberry extract. Black elderberries contain flavonoids, which are plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Some of the key flavonoids in elderberries include:
- Anthocyanins – These give the berries their deep purple color and have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Quercetin – This is a natural antihistamine that helps reduce congestion and respiratory discomfort.
- Kaempferol – This flavonoid acts as an antioxidant and may help protect cells from damage.
In addition to black elderberry extract, zarbee’s syrup contains honey, which helps improve the taste and has its own antioxidant and microbial properties. It also contains ginger extract, which can help reduce nausea and digestive distress.
What does black elderberry do?
Research shows that black elderberries have a number of beneficial effects, particularly against cold and flu symptoms:
- Supports immune health – The flavonoids in elderberries have been shown to boost cytokine production. Cytokines are proteins that help regulate the immune system’s response to infections.
- Anti-inflammatory effects – The anthocyanins in elderberries have natural anti-inflammatory capabilities that can help ease congestion, sinus pressure, and respiratory discomfort.
- Antiviral activity – Test tube and animal studies indicate that elderberry extracts can inhibit the replication of viral infections like influenza.
- Respiratory relief – Elderberry has been used traditionally to help relieve cough, sore throat, and nasal congestion.
The combination of flavonoids, antioxidants, and vitamins in elderberry provide a synergistic effect that supports overall immune function and respiratory health.
What is zarbee’s black elderberry syrup used for?
Here are some of the main uses and benefits of taking zarbee’s black elderberry syrup:
- Cold and flu relief – Elderberry syrup is commonly used to help shorten the duration and severity of colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections. It can help ease symptoms like congestion, cough, fever, and body aches.
- Immune support – The bioactive compounds in elderberry syrup stimulate immune cell activities. This provides support against germs and can be taken regularly to help strengthen overall immune function.
- Traveling – Many people take elderberry syrup before and during travel to bolster immune defenses and reduce the likelihood of catching a bug while on the go.
- Children’s health – Elderberry is gentle enough for children ages 1 and up. It’s an excellent option for providing immune support for kids.
Elderberry syrup is also sometimes used alongside antibiotics or other medications to boost their efficacy and provide additional symptom relief.
What does research say about the benefits of elderberry syrup?
A growing body of research demonstrates the therapeutic effects of European black elderberry (Sambucus nigra):
- In a 2004 study, elderberry extract was found to inhibit infection with influenza B as well as the H1N1 virus in cell cultures. The researchers concluded that elderberry exhibits antiviral activity against influenza viruses.(1)
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in 2019 looked at air travelers who took elderberry syrup 10 days before and during travel. The elderberry group had a 16% incidence of respiratory symptoms, compared to roughly 60% in the placebo group. (2)
- Another 2019 study gave elderly subjects with influenza-like symptoms either elderberry syrup or a placebo daily for 3 days. The elderberry group saw symptom improvement an average of 4 days earlier than the control group. (3)
A 2016 meta-analysis evaluated the evidence from controlled trials. It concluded that elderberry supplementation can significantly reduce upper respiratory symptoms caused by viral infections. (4)
While more research is still needed, these studies show promise that elderberry can serve as an effective remedy against upper respiratory viruses like the cold and flu.
Table 1. Key Findings on Elderberry for Respiratory Health
| Study | Key Findings |
|---|---|
| 2004 lab study | Elderberry inhibited flu infection in cells |
| 2019 air travel study | 16% vs. 60% incidence of respiratory symptoms with elderberry |
| 2019 elderly study | Faster improvement of flu-like illness with elderberry |
| 2016 meta-analysis | Elderberry significantly reduces respiratory symptoms |
Is zarbee’s elderberry syrup safe?
When used appropriately, zarbee’s elderberry syrup is considered very safe for both children and adults. The most common side effect is minor digestive upset or nausea.
There are a few precautions to keep in mind with elderberry syrup use:
- Due to its immune stimulating effects, elderberry should be avoided in cases of autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Elderberry may interact with chemotherapy drugs used to suppress the immune system. Consult your doctor before use if on chemo.
- If you have any berry allergies, check with your doctor before trying elderberry.
- Pregnant or nursing mothers should speak with their physician before taking any medicinal herb supplements.
- Elderberry syrup is not recommended for children under 1 year old.
Zarbee’s Naturals adheres to strict quality control standards and is made in a facility that follows cGMP regulations. Their syrup is alcohol-free, gluten-free, and free of common allergens like peanuts, soy, dairy, and eggs. It’s considered an excellent option for vegans and vegetarians.
How should you take zarbee’s elderberry syrup?
For general immune support, the standard daily dosage of zarbee’s black elderberry syrup is:
- Children ages 2-3: 1/2 teaspoon
- Children ages 4-8: 1 teaspoon
- Children ages 9-13: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Adults ages 14+: 1 tablespoon (15mL)
To help fight off a cold or flu, the recommendation is to take the syrup every 2-3 hours until symptoms improve. For severe congestion, it can be taken as often as every 1-2 hours for the first 24-48 hours.
Zarbee’s syrup has a pleasant, fruity taste that kids enjoy. It can be taken straight from the spoon or mixed with a small amount of water or juice if desired. For maximum benefit, use the syrup consistently throughout cold and flu season.
Table 2. Recommended Daily Dosage of Zarbee’s Elderberry Syrup
| Age | Daily Dose |
|---|---|
| 2-3 years | 1/2 teaspoon |
| 4-8 years | 1 teaspoon |
| 9-13 years | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| 14+ years | 1 tablespoon (15mL) |
When should you take zarbee’s elderberry syrup?
Here are some of the best times to take elderberry syrup for maximum effectiveness:
- At the first sign of illness – Take elderberry immediately when you notice cold or flu symptoms starting. This can help shorten the duration and severity.
- During illness – Keep taking the syrup consistently throughout your sickness according to the dosing instructions.
- Before air travel – Start taking it 2-5 days before traveling and continue during your trip to fortify your immune system against germs.
- Flu season – Take it daily as a preventive measure throughout fall and winter months when cold and flu incidence is highest.
- After exposure – If someone around you is sick, taking elderberry after contact with them may help stop the infection from taking hold.
Elderberry syrup works best when taken at the very first signs of sickness or as a daily preventive supplement during peak cold and flu season. It provides the most benefits when used consistently.
What does zarbee’s elderberry syrup taste like?
Zarbee’s elderberry syrup has a pleasant, fruity taste. It is sweetened with honey, which gives it a mild honey-like flavor. Many people describe the taste as similar to a grape juice syrup.
It has a thick, sticky syrup consistency that coats the throat and offers soothing relief to the mucous membranes. The ginger extract adds a subtle warming, spicy undertone.
Overall, zarbee’s elderberry syrup tastes great and is very easy to drink right off the spoon. It’s gentle enough that even picky kids will readily take it. The taste makes this an easy natural remedy to use on a regular basis.
Where to buy zarbee’s elderberry syrup?
Zarbee’s black elderberry immune support syrup is available at most major retailers where over-the-counter medicines and supplements are sold. Here are some of the most common places you can find it:
- Drug stores – Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid
- Grocery stores – Kroger, Safeway, Whole Foods, Sprouts
- Mass merchandisers – Walmart, Target, Costco
- Online – Amazon, Vitacost, iHerb
- Natural health stores – GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, health food stores
Zarbee’s Naturals products are sold in over 35,000 retail locations across the United States and Canada. Their elderberry syrup typically retails between $12-$20 for a 4 ounce bottle.
Look for zarbee’s original black elderberry immune support gummies or syrup. Make sure to check the label for the proper dosage recommendations based on age.
How does zarbee’s elderberry syrup compare to other brands?
Some of the top elderberry syrup brands to compare include:
- Zarbee’s Naturals – Their Original Syrup uses European black elderberries. It has a short ingredient list and is free of artificial flavors/colors.
- Nature’s Way – This brand uses elderberry fruit concentrates and juices. Their syrup has a vegetable glycerin base.
- Gaia Herbs – Gaia uses black elderberry fruit extract with organic honey. Their syrup has a thick, viscous texture.
- Sambucol – Sambucol offers both Original and Sugar-Free varieties. Their syrup uses elderberry as well as vitamin C, zinc, and propolis.
When comparing brands, look for ones with minimal added sugars or artificial ingredients. Zarbee’s is a top choice for its simple, clean ingredient list, safety, and great taste.
Table 3. How Zarbee’s Compares to Other Popular Elderberry Brands
| Brand | Base Ingredients | Flavors/Colors | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zarbee’s Naturals | Elderberry, honey | Natural | $12-20 |
| Nature’s Way | Elderberry, glycerin | Natural | $16-25 |
| Gaia Herbs | Elderberry, honey | Natural | $25-35 |
| Sambucol | Elderberry, honey | Natural/Artificial | $15-30 |
Does zarbee’s elderberry syrup work for COVID?
There is no definitive scientific evidence showing that elderberry syrup can help prevent or treat COVID-19 specifically. However, some research suggests it may offer potential benefits:
- In lab tests, black elderberry extracts inhibited coronavirus infection and replication in cells.(5) However, this has not been proven in humans against COVID-19.
- Elderberry provides immune support and antioxidant activity that may help fight respiratory viral illnesses.
- Taking elderberry may help shorten duration of upper respiratory symptoms that are common with COVID.
- Elderberry could potentially decrease severity of cytokine storm inflammation associated with COVID.
More research is needed to know if elderberry has a direct effect against SARS-CoV-2. But its proven benefits for cold and flu viruses suggest it may be helpful for relieving symptoms.
Is zarbee’s elderberry safe with COVID medications?
There are no known negative interactions between elderberry and COVID treatments like Paxlovid or monoclonal antibodies. However, it’s best to consult your doctor before using elderberry if you are taking prescription antiviral medications.
Elderberry should also be avoided if you are taking medications that suppress the immune system. This includes drugs like chemotherapy agents, high-dose steroids, or immunosuppressants used after organ transplant.
The bottom line
Zarbee’s black elderberry syrup is a popular supplement used to help boost immune function and fight viral respiratory illnesses like colds and flu. It utilizes the proven benefits of European black elderberry, along with ginger and honey for additional support.
Research shows elderberry’s antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce symptoms and shorten the duration of illness. When taken at first signs of sickness or as a daily preventive, elderberry syrup can help keep your immune system strong and resilient.
Zarbee’s offers a safe, effective elderberry syrup with a great taste that makes it easy to take. Look for their products containing black elderberry extract to support your family’s immune health during cold and flu season.
