Four Ingredient Elderberry Gummies (Plus a 2 Ingredient Elderberry Syrup Recipe) (2024)

FAQs

Do elderberry gummies work as well as elderberry syrup? ›

Elderberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which are known to boost the immune system and fight inflammation. Both gummies and syrup offer these benefits, but they might be more suitable for different needs and preferences.

However, studies have shown that elderberry syrup is the most effective form of elderberry supplement for immune support.

Preventative Use: Take 1 teaspoon daily during the cold and flu season. During Illness: Increase to 1 teaspoon 3 times a day at the onset of symptoms.

Elderberry appears to have few side effects when used properly for short periods of time (up to 5 days). Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take elderberry. If you have an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, ask your doctor before taking elderberry, as it may stimulate the immune system.

The most potent form of elderberry is raw elderberry syrup (Dr. Mobley suggests syrup made with organic, fresh-pressed elderberries). The syrup is absorbed most quickly by the body—whereas if you take elderberry gummies, capsules, lozenges, or teas, they're less potent and/or take longer for the body to digest.

However, the Aronia is said to be more nutritional than the Elderberry due to its antioxidant-rich property and higher vitamin & mineral content. They are also able to improve blood circulation, particularly beneficial to those who suffer from high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

They seem to help reduce swelling, fight inflammation, and boost the immune system. Limited studies have found that elderberry eases flu symptoms like fever, headache, sore throat, fatigue, cough, and body aches. The benefits seem to be greatest when started within 24 to 48 hours after the symptoms begin.

While Elderberry primarily targets immune health, upper respiratory health, allergies, and acts as an anti-viral - Ashwagandha benefits the brain, lung function, and relieves stress. Put the two together, and you have powerful herbs that benefit so many parts of the body.

Elderberry extract appears to be safe when taken in small doses. Taking amounts greater than recommended could be more likely to result in undesirable side effects. Elderberries should always be cooked and processed before they're consumed. Unripened, raw elderberries can release toxins into your body.

What is the best time of day to take elderberry syrup? ›

Although there is no specific time of day to take elderberry, you'll maximize its benefits by using it consistently on a regular basis. You can choose whether to use it morning, afternoon or evening. It may be best to use elderberry for short periods of time to support healthy immune function, and then take a break.

Elderberry pie, elderberry syrup, elderberry jam—the sweet taste and even sweeter health benefits of this tiny fruit come in many forms. The most popular way to use fresh elderberries is to cook them into a syrup or extract used to support your immune system.

Cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers and liver and kidney function are not altered in postmenopausal women after ingesting an elderberry extract rich in anthocyanins for 12 weeks.

Elderberry is rich in antioxidants, which can help lower inflammation as well as cholesterol and blood pressure. “Elderberry's phytonutrients and fiber content helps to lower the amount of cholesterol circulating [in your blood] by binding to [the cholesterol] and expelling it from the body,” Best said.

Elderberry is possibly unsafe when uncooked leaves, stems, or fruit are consumed. The elderberry plant contains a chemical that produces cyanide in the leaves or other plant parts and in the unripe green fruit. This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or more serious side effects if consumed in large quantities.

Elderberry is commonly used for the common cold, flu, high cholesterol, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses, with the possible exception of the flu. There is also no good evidence to support using elderberry for COVID-19.

The active ingredients in elderberry extract are water-soluble, so they should take effect quickly. Like many supplements, however, elderberry extract commonly has a cumulative effect that builds over the course of 1-2 weeks.

The berries and flowers of elderberry are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system. They could help tame inflammation, lessen stress, and help protect your heart, too. Some experts recommend elderberry to help prevent and ease cold and flu symptoms.