About This Product
Elderberry refers to several different varieties of the Sambucus tree, which is a flowering plant belonging to the Adoxaceae family. The most common type is Sambucus nigra, also known as the European elderberry or black elder. This tree is native to Europe, though it is widely grown in many other parts of the world as well. S. nigra grows up to 30 feet (9 meters) tall and has clusters of small white- or cream-colored flowers known as elderflowers.
The berries are found in small black or blue-black bunches. The berries are quite tart and need to be cooked to be eaten. The flowers have a delicate muscat aroma and can be eaten raw or cooked. Other varieties include the American elder, dwarf elder, blue elderberry, danewort, red-fruited elder, and antelope brush. Various parts of the elderberry tree have been used throughout history for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Historically, the flowers and leaves have been used for pain relief, swelling, inflammation, stimulating the production of urine, and inducing sweating. The bark was used as a diuretic, laxative and to induce vomiting. In folk medicine, the dried berries or juice are used to treat influenza, infections, sciatica, headaches, dental pain, heart pain, and nerve pain, as well as a laxative and diuretic.
Additionally, the berries can be cooked and used to make juice, jams, chutneys, pies, and elderberry wine. The flowers are often boiled with sugar to make a sweet syrup or infused into the tea. They can also be eaten fresh in salads.
Health Benefits of Elderberry Fruit Extract
1- High In Nutrients
Elderberries are a low-calorie food packed with antioxidants. 100 grams of fresh berries contain 73 calories, 18.4 grams of carbs, and less than 1 gram each of fat and protein.
Plus, they have many nutritional benefits. Elderberries are:
- High in vitamin C: There is 6–35 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams of fruit, which accounts for up to 60% of the recommended daily intake.
- High in dietary fiber: Elderberries contain 7 grams of fiber per 100 grams of fresh berries, which is over one-quarter of the recommended daily intake.
- A good source of phenolic acids: These compounds are powerful antioxidants that can help reduce damage from oxidative stress in the body.
- A good source of flavonols: Elderberry contains the antioxidant flavonols quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin. The flowers contain up to 10 times more flavonols than the berries.
- Rich in anthocyanins: These compounds give the fruit its characteristic dark black-purple color and are a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects.
2- Elderberry Fruit Extract May Reduce Cold and Flu
Black elderberry extracts and flower infusions have been shown to reduce the severity and length of influenza. Commercial preparations of elderberry for the treatment of colds come in various forms, including liquids, capsules, lozenges, and gummies.
3- High In Antioxidants
During normal metabolism, reactive molecules may be released that can accumulate in the body. This can cause oxidative stress and lead to the development of diseases like type 2 diabetes and cancer. Antioxidants are natural components of foods, including some vitamins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, that are able to remove these reactive molecules. Research suggests that diets high in antioxidants may help prevent chronic disease. The flowers, fruits, and leaves of the elderberry plant are excellent sources of antioxidants. For example, anthocyanins found in the berries have 3.5 times the antioxidant power of vitamin E.
4- Promotes Heart Heart
Elderberry may have positive effects on some markers of heart and blood vessel health. Studies have shown elderberry juice may reduce the level of fat in the blood and decrease cholesterol. In addition, a diet high in flavonoids like anthocyanins has been found to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Furthermore, elderberry can increase insulin secretion and improve blood sugar levels. Given that type 2 diabetes is a major risk factor for heart and vascular disease, blood sugar control is important in preventing these conditions. A study found that elderberry flowers inhibit the enzyme α-glucosidase, which may help lower blood sugar levels. Also, research on diabetic rats given elderberry showed improved blood sugar control.
Safety Information
Do not exceed recommended dose. Pregnant or nursing mothers, children under the age of 18, and individuals with a known medical condition should consult a physician before using this or any dietary supplement. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use if the safety seal is damaged or missing. Store in a cool, dry place. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease
Suggested Use
As a dietary supplement take one (1) veggie capsule twice a day. For better results, take 20-30 minutes before a meal with an 8oz glass of water or as directed by your healthcare professional.
Ingredients
Elderberry Fruit Extract
Legal Disclaimer
Do not exceed recommended dose. Pregnant or nursing mothers, children under the age of 18, and individuals with a known medical condition should consult a physician before using this or any dietary supplement. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use if the safety seal is damaged or missing. Store in a cool, dry place. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.
Evans –
I have been using GC for 14 months now. I have lost a total of 40 pounds. I had lost most of the weight in the first 4 months, but have stabilized and am now maintaining. No change in exercise, just added the GC. It has helped me to stave off cravings and control portions. The biggest thng has been the between meal snacks that I no longer crave.
Mary –
I love this product, it does exactly as described. I’ve used this several times in the past to help with weight loss. It does decrease my appetite and give me more energy. If you’re taking this alone and you’re not exercising/eating healthy than you will not see any progress. This is just an aid to help with decreasing your appetite, which is exactly what I needed to help continue with my diet. I didn’t experience any headaches or jitters, thankfully.
Libby –
Help me stay healthy by building up my immune system. Easy to swallow and great ingredient quality.
Mike –
I believe it’s a great supplement. I added it to my daily vitamins and it’s great!
Mary –
I purchased a second bottle of elderberry I see that my husband sinus improve. Easy to swallow. great product.