What is the recommended dosage for Elderberry?

Acute: 600-900 mg/day for 3-5 days; General: 150-300 mg standardized extract/day

What are the side effects of Elderberry?

Potential side effects include: Raw or unripe berries cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (cyanogenic glycosides), Mild gastrointestinal effects with prepared extracts, Allergic reactions (rare).

What is elderberry and how does it support immune health?

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a fruit rich in anthocyanins and flavonoids. Clinical studies have examined elderberry extract for its potential to reduce the duration and severity of upper respiratory infections by supporting cytokine-mediated immune responses.

What dosage of elderberry has been studied in clinical trials?

Clinical trials have used elderberry extract at doses equivalent to 300–600 mg per day of standardized extract, or 15 mL of syrup containing 38% elderberry extract, taken multiple times daily for 3 to 5 days.

What are the potential side effects of elderberry?

Standardized elderberry extracts are generally well tolerated. Raw or unripe elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides and must never be consumed unprocessed. Mild gastrointestinal effects may occur. Some experts advise caution in autoimmune conditions due to immune-stimulating properties.

Elderberry

herb

Also known as: Sambucus nigra, Black Elder, European Elder, Sambucol

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About

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) contains anthocyanins and polyphenols that activate immune cells and stimulate cytokine production. Its flavonoids may bind to and inhibit viral surface proteins. Meta-analysis of RCTs found elderberry supplementation substantially reduces upper respiratory symptom duration and severity.

How It Works

Anthocyanins and polyphenols activate immune cells and stimulate cytokine production; flavonoids bind to and may inhibit viral surface proteins, potentially reducing viral entry and replication.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Influenza	B	5	500	View →

Side Effects

Raw or unripe berries cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (cyanogenic glycosides)
Mild gastrointestinal effects with prepared extracts
Allergic reactions (rare)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Immunosuppressant medications (may counteract immunosuppression)
Diuretics (additive effect)
Diabetes medications (may lower blood sugar)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Andrographis Astragalus Echinacea Garlic Olive Leaf Extract

Quick Facts

Dosage: Acute: 600-900 mg/day for 3-5 days; General: 150-300 mg standardized extract/day
Forms: syrup lozenge capsule gummy liquid extract
Natural Sources: Elderberry fruit (must be cooked; raw berries, bark, and leaves are toxic)
Upper Limit: No established UL; short-term use recommended
Best Time: At first sign of symptoms; within 48 hours of onset for best results

Evidence Summary

Influenza B

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.