Black elderberry, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra, is a plant that has been utilized for centuries due to its health properties and culinary potential. Its small, dark berries pack an impressive nutrient profile. The role of black elderberry in health lies in its rich content of vitamin C [1], accounting for a remarkable 57% of the daily value.
Besides, it's rich in flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants, contributing to the plant's traditional use for defending the immune system.
Taking supplements with black elderberry for immune system support can significantly help you replenish your body’s nutritional demands, including vitamin C, A, fiber and iron. This makes it an important consideration for anyone looking to adjust their health and wellness through nature's bountiful offerings.
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Nature's Powerhouse: Exploring the Health Benefits of Black Elderberry
Fortifying Immune Responses
When a cold or flu virus enters the body, it attaches to our cells and it injects genetic material, replicating itself and eventually causing symptoms such as a runny nose, fever or aches. Here's where black elderberry vitamins step in to disrupt this process.
Elderberry contains anthocyanins, which are known for their strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory [2] and antiviral [3] properties. These anthocyanins inhibit the early stages of an infection by blocking the virus from entering the cell [4]. They also prevent the virus from replicating if it does manage to invade a cell []. This dual-action effect can help to reduce the spread of these viruses within the body []. Thus, these humble, but yet potent berries stand out as necessary allies in reducing common flu symptoms [], all while modulating your immune response.
Supporting Heart Health
The health of our heart is significantly influenced by our diet and lifestyle. Interestingly, the benefits of black elderberry extract can contribute positively towards heart health.
Black elderberries are rich in dietary fiber and potassium [5], two key nutrients that promote heart health. Dietary fiber helps to lower the levels of "bad" cholesterol in the body [6], [7], reducing the risk of developing heart disease []. On the other hand, potassium aids in regulating blood pressure [8] by counteracting the effects of sodium and relaxing the walls of the blood vessels [9].
Energizing Effects of Black Elderberry: Aiding in Exercise Performance
Black elderberry isn't just a nutritional powerhouse; it can also be a great asset for fitness enthusiasts and athletes. These berries offer an impressive amount of vitamin C [10]. This vital nutrient is not only crucial for a healthy immune system, but it's also integral in the synthesis of carnitine [11], a molecule that aids in fat metabolism during exercise. Increased carnitine levels can enhance energy production and exercise performance [12]. Moreover, vitamin C can also help with the absorption of iron, an essential mineral that helps deliver oxygen to working muscles [13], an important factor during exercise.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Chronic inflammation can be detrimental and has been linked to various health conditions. The primary compounds responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects of black elderberry are the flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins and quercetin [14]. Containing lots of antioxidants [15], including vitamin C, black elderberry neutralizes free radicals in the body [16], which are often responsible for triggering an inflammatory response.
Aiding in Skin Health
Black elderberry extract benefits extend to promoting a youthful and glowing skin [17]. Our skin, the largest organ of the body, benefits significantly from a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. The major players in the black elderberry's skin-supporting properties are its high content of vitamin C. It plays a critical role in the production of collagen [18], a protein that gives our skin its elasticity and strength. By promoting collagen synthesis, vitamin C helps maintain the skin's integrity, leading to a youthful and firm appearance []. As a bonus, black elderberry is shown to possess sun protection factor [19].
Boosting Digestive Health
Among the various components that can aid digestion, black elderberry supplements benefits stand out as more effective. Their primary nutrient that supports digestion is dietary fiber. These berries are an excellent source of this essential nutrient. Fiber adds bulk to our diet and helps in the movement of food through the digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation [20].
Supporting Cholesterol Management
Black elderberries are rich in dietary fiber, a nutrient known for its ability to aid in cholesterol management [5]. Specifically, it is the soluble fiber that plays a key role in lowering cholesterol []. Soluble fiber binds to cholesterol in the digestive system and helps remove it from the body before it gets absorbed into the bloodstream. This mechanism results in a decrease in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as "bad" cholesterol [21].
Final Thoughts: Black Elderberry for Optimal Health
Black elderberries, small but mighty fruits, are teeming with an array of nutrients that have profound health-promoting effects. Rich in vitamin C, fiber and anthocyanins, these berries offer an impressive range of health benefits, making them a worthy addition to any diet. These potent berries have the potential to bolster the immune system, serving as a valuable defense against common illnesses such as colds and flu. As a plus, taking elderberry for sleep can be beneficial, thanks to its soothing properties that may help some individuals rest more easily.
Black elderberry is more than just a tasty fruit. Its rich nutrient profile and various health benefits make it a valuable ally in the quest for holistic health. By integrating these berries into a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, we can unlock their full potential and support our bodies in maintaining optimal health.
Unleash the Power of Black Elderberry Today!
Now that you're aware of the astounding health benefits of black elderberry, let’s take another step! Our high-quality supplements are made with pure, carefully sourced elderberry. They are designed to provide you a myriad of benefits in a convenient and effective form. Whether you are looking to fortify your immunity or give your exercise routine a boost, our supplements are here to support you on your health journey.
Resources:
- https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171727/nutrients
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/elderberry#health-benefits
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28198157/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7347422/
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-black-elderberry
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-fiber-helps-lower-cholestrol-and-what-to-eat
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fiber-and-cholesterol#fiber-supplements-and-cholesterol
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4963920/
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure/how-potassium-can-help-control-high-blood-pressure
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464614002400
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1962562/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002916523067448
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3999603/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9100260/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15612766/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8621476/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323288
- https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/vitamin-C
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24007865/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fiber-and-constipation-truth
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/elderberry#health-benefits