Elderberry is a medicinal food that has been used for hundreds of years to improve certain factors of health. And the fact that this dark purple berry from the European elder (Sambucus nigra) tree is still used today, is a testament to its favorable properties. The potential and research-backed benefits include improving cold and influenza symptoms, diabetes, immune system health, contributing to the prevention of cancers, and more.
Today we have for you 13 of the best elderberry supplements on the market and lots of helpful information to go along with it.
- Havasu Nutrition Elderberry Gummies – Buy here Editor’s Choice
- Sports Research Elderberry Complex Capsules – Buy here
- Mary Ruth’s Organic Liquid Elderberry Immunity – Buy here
- Airborne Elderberry Gummies – Buy here
- NOW Supplements Capsules – Buy here
- Amazon Elements Elderberry Complex Lozenges – Buy here
- Nature’s Way Sambucus Standardized Elderberry Gummies – Buy here
- Nature’s Bounty Elderberry Gummies – Buy here
- Zarbee’s Naturals Children’s Elderberry Immune Support – Buy here
- Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup – Buy here
- Nature’s Way Black Elderberry Capsules – Buy here
- Nature’s Truth Vitamins Sambucus Super-Concentrated Black Elderberry Capsules – Buy here
- Nature’s Way Sambucus Standardized Elderberry Original Syrup – Buy here
Check out our top picks…
Editor’s Choice – Havasu Nutrition Elderberry Gummies (9.75/10)
Gummies can make daily supplementation so much more enjoyable and you’ll be looking forward to taking your gummies every day. You may even have to use some restraint to prevent eating more than you’re supposed too…
Now, there are different elderberry gummy products on the market. But this one, in particular, places a focus on immune support. That’s because, in addition to the 100mg full-spectrum elderberry extract per serving, you also get 100% of the daily value of vitamin C. We all know vitamin C is a popular immune-boosting nutrient that also has antioxidants which protect our cells from disease-causing free radicals. 68% zinc contained in the product also supports immune health.
Pectin is also an ingredient in these gummies which is extracted from apple cores and is a prebiotic that feeds probiotic bacteria in our guts that play a role in overall health.
There are only 15 calories in a serving (2 gummies) and 3 g sugar (2 added). This product is gluten-free.
Pros
- Great combination of immune-supporting ingredients
- No preservatives, artificial flavors or colorings
- Third-party tested
- GMP-certified
Cons
- Several complaints of large price increase previously (seemed to have fixed the issue)
Ingredients
- Black elderberry (sambucus nigra L)
- Organic tapioca syrup, raw cane sugar, pectin, sodium citrate, natural flavors, citric acid, coconut oil, carnauba wax
Who makes it
Havasu Nutrition is a top-notch company that makes its products in the USA. They pride themselves on sourcing the highest quality ingredients to ensure the best possible experience.
Sports Research Elderberry Complex Capsules (9.75/10)
Sports Research elderberry complex is packed with ingredients to boost your immune system and help you to maintain good overall health.
In addition to the 500mg elderberry, they’ve included 200% vitamin C and 68% zinc.
This product is made from organic black elderberries which may increase the appeal for a lot of users. The Eldercraft European elderberry extract also comes from the highest quality berries in Austria.
The product is vegan-friendly and gluten-free.
Pros
- Third-party tested for purity and potency
- Non-GMO
- No fillers or artificial colorings
Cons
- Few dissatisfied users regarding the efficacy
Ingredients
- Eldercraft organic black elderberry fruit extract 14%
- Veggie capsule (Non-GMO modified starch), organic rice bran, organic rice hulls
Who makes it
Sports Research is a family-owned and operated business that has been around since 1980 and they offer some of the best quality products around at an affordable price point.
Mary Ruth’s Organic Liquid Elderberry Immunity (9.25/10)
Mary Ruth’s organic liquid elderberry is a ‘berry’ good option for both kids and adults to take a daily dose of elderberry. The formula was created by Culinary Chef and health educator MaryRuth Ghiyam with a delectable blueberry/raspberry flavor but that still offers all of the beneficial properties of elderberry.
It’s an optimally absorbable option that is also gluten-free and vegan-friendly too. Not to mention, there’s no sugar.
Pros
- Organic ingredients
- Non-GMO
- Zero sugar
- Great absorption
- Interesting blueberry/raspberry flavor made by a chef
Cons
- Few complaints about the quality
Ingredients
- Black elderberry
- Purified water, organic non-GMO vegan vegetable glycerin (sourced from vegetable and/or coconut oil), organic non-GMO vegan citric acid (from citrus), organic non-GMO vegan natural raspberry and blueberry flavors (from raspberry and blueberry fruits)
Who makes it
Mary Ruth’s is owned and operated by a mother-daughter duo. The founder, MaryRuth Ghiyam, is a culinary chef, nutritional consultant, and health educator.
Airborne Elderberry Gummies (9.25/10)
The options for gummy elderberry supplements are plentiful and we’ve provided several similar options in our review of the best elderberry supplements. Airborne is a pharmacist-recommended brand that is extremely popular for the various product options that they offer.
A serving gives you 25 calories, 6g carbs, 4g sugar (added), plus vitamins C, D, and E with some zinc. It does also have some added sugars which some users will need to be mindful of.
The product is also gelatin and gluten-free.
Pros
- No artificial sweeteners or colors
- Contains added nutrients
Cons
- contains 4g added sugar per serving which may be high for some
Ingredients
- Black elder juice powder
- Sugar, tapioca syrup, pectin, citric acid, sodium citrate, natural flavors, maltodextrin
Who makes it
Airborne was developed by a former school teacher and the products focus on providing a healthy dose of necessary nutrients for supporting immune system health.
NOW Supplements Capsules (9/10)
NOW Supplements is a household name which is a testament to their reputation. They provide all types of food and supplement products and we’re confident their elderberry product is good to go.
A serving provides you with 500mg of elderberry at a 10:1 concentrate and the product is vegetarian/vegan friendly.
Pros
- Charitable giving company
- GMP certified
- Lab-tested
Cons
- Few complaints about quality/effectiveness
- Some users reported allergic reaction
Ingredients
- Elderberry 10:1 concentrate
- Hypromellose (cellulose capsules), silicon dioxide and stearic acid (vegetable source)
Who makes it
NOW Supplements was started in 1968. They’re family-owned and operated and one of their core values is charitable giving.
Amazon Elements Elderberry Complex Lozenges (8.75/10)
A great product from Amazon, their elderberry lozenges are as good quality as most other products.
The 100mg of elderberry with 114% DV (daily value) of vitamin C and 109% zinc are super-immune boosters and there are only 5 calories per serving with 1g sugar (added). The product is vegetarian, gluten-free, and is blended and packaged in the USA.
Pros
- Low-calorie
- Low-sugar
- No artificial flavors or colors
- No chemical preservatives
- GMP certified
- Verified for purity, potency, and integrity
Cons
- Several complaints about the taste
- Few concerns with efficacy
Ingredients
- Elderberry extract (fruit)
- Cane sugar, natural flavors, stearic acid, citric acid, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, stevia leaf extract
Who makes it
Amazon is the largest online marketplace in the world and all products reviewed on this list are found on their website through the links we’ve provided.
Nature’s Way Sambucus Standardized Elderberry Gummies (8.75/10)
Nature’s Way elderberry gummies are very similar to the editor’s choice Havasu gummies. Although, there are a few differences including the amount of elderberry, sugar content (not significantly different), and this product contains vegetable oil which some users were not pleased with.
Pros
- Tested for bioavailability
- No artificial flavors or colors
Cons
- Many users don’t appreciate the apparent change in formula
- Few concerns about the quality
Ingredients
- Black elder (sambucus nigra L) extract (berry) standardized to bioactive from 3.2 g of premium cultivar elderberries
- Organic tapioca syrup, cane sugar, pectin, sodium citrate, natural flavors, citric acid, vegetable oil (palm and coconut) beeswax
Who makes it
Nature’s Way has been in business since 1969 after the founder Tom Murdock needed to find a solution to his wife’s compromised health. He learned about the healing powers of plants and helped his wife live an additional 25 years.
Nature’s Bounty Elderberry Gummies (8.75/10)
Another great gummy option, Nature’s Bounty is a trusted brand that makes effective products. Similar to several products in this list, the formula contains vitamins and zinc in addition to the 100mg of elderberry. A serving has 20 calories, and 5g carbs, 3 g sugar (added). Pectin is also contained in the product.
All this at an affordable price point!
This product is not vegetarian/vegan-friendly.
Pros
- Great ingredient profile
- Low-calorie
- Lab-tested formula
Cons
- Few complaints about the taste and texture of gummies
Ingredients
- 100mg elderberry extract
- Tapioca syrup, cane sugar, pectin natural flavors, carnauba wax, citric acid, coconut oil, grape juice concentrate (color), maltodextrin
Who makes it
Nature’s Bounty has made quality products for 50 years and they have a great reputation among supplement users.
Zarbee’s Naturals Children’s Elderberry Immune Support (8.75/10)
Need something for the little ones too? Zarbee’s gummies is an excellent option for supporting their immune health and overall health in general due to the antioxidants in elderberry. Plus… every child loves gummies! Not to mention, the playful packaging and branding is based on bees that make honey.
This product also contains vitamins A, C, D3, E. Vitamins A, and E which are antioxidants while vitamin D supports immune health as well as the mineral zinc. You also have some pectin in here as well.
You can give your young one 1 or 2 gummies of which will determine how much of each ingredient in a serving. The product suggests 1 gummy for 2-3 years and 2 for 4+ years. This product is for children ages 2 and up. It’s also vegetarian/vegan-friendly.
Pros
- No artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors or gelatin
- Contains a nice dose of vitamins
Cons
- 2 gummies contain 5g added sugar which is a little high (1 gummy contains 2g)
- Contains corn syrup
- Few complaints about taste and texture
Ingredients
- Black elderberry extract
- Sugar, corn syrup, pectin, citric acid, natural flavor, color added (vegetable juice, grape skin extract, and enocianina
Who makes it
Zarbee’s was founded by a father and pediatrician after noticing how many people came into his office with a cough. So he discovered the benefits of dark honey for calming coughs and made quality products that were safe.
Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup (8.75/10)
Gaia Herbs doesn’t just come in a fancy bottle. The formula consists of a super-concentrated source of elderberry to support good overall health. The 37mg of added acerola fruit extract is also added for its antioxidant properties.
The syrup is USDA organic, vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and lab-tested for purity and potency.
Pros
- USDA organic
- Screened for purity and heavy metals
- Certified B corporation
Cons
- Low-calorie
- Low-sugar (1g per serving)
- Several complaints about quality and taste
Ingredients
- Black elderberry fruit juice concentrate
- Acerola fruit extract
- Organic cane sugar, water, and lemon fruit juice (to preserve freshness)
Who makes it
Since 1987, Gaia Herbs have gone above and beyond to provide health solutions in supplement form. Their products start at the Gaia Farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina in one of the most biodiverse regions in North America.
Nature’s Way Black Elderberry Capsules (8.5/10)
Another product from Nature’s Way, they really do make some decent elderberry supplements overall. This product contains 920mg of elderberry from the berry and 230mg from the flower. This is 1,150mg total and a potent dose for immune health support.
Apparently, the flower offers benefits as well. However, this is in supplement form as you don’t want to eat or cook the flowers otherwise.
It’s also a gluten-free product.
Pros
- No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
- No sugar
- No preservatives
- Certified authentic Tru-ID
- Non-GMO
Cons
- Several complaints of stomach discomfort
Ingredients
- European elder (berry)
- European elder (flower)
- Plant-derived capsule (hypromellose), silica
Who makes it
Nature’s Way has been in business since 1969 after the founder Tom Murdock needed to find a solution to his wife’s compromised health. He learned about the healing powers of plants and helped his wife live an additional 25 years.
Nature’s Truth Vitamins Sambucus Super-Concentrated Black Elderberry Capsules (8/10)
Each serving of Nature’s Truth black elderberry provides 1000mg (1g) of the active ingredient. It’s also lab-tested, Non-GMO, and has no preservatives, artificial flavors or sweeteners. It’s also a very affordable option for elderberry supplementation.
Pros
- No preservatives, artificial flavors or sweeteners
- Non-GMO
- GMP certified
- Lab-tested
Cons
- Several complaints about the efficacy
Ingredients
- Sambucus black elderberry from 15.625 of 64:1 extract
- Rice powder, gelatin capsule, beet root color, vegetable magnesium stearate, and silica
Who makes it
Nature’s Truth was founded by three generations of vitamin innovators and their team of experts have over 40 years of experience in creating healthy and effective supplements.
Nature’s Way Sambucus Standardized Elderberry Original Syrup (8/10)
Nature’s Way Sambucus elderberry syrup contains a triple action immune blend that contains full-spectrum elderberry extract which ensures flavonoid BioActives content, tested for optimal quality.
Aside from the 100mg of potent elderberry extract, there are 30 calories, 7g carbs, and 6g sugar (added). This is a gluten-free and vegan product.
Pros
- Tested for bioavailability
- No artificial flavors or colors
Cons
- 6g sugar per serving may not be the most optimal amount
- Contains fructose as a sweetener which isn’t the best
- Fructose can cause digestive discomfort
Ingredients
- Black elder (sambucus nigra L) extract (berry) standardized to bioactive from 6.4 g of premium cultivar elderberries
- Fructose, purified water, glycerin, malic acid, natural flavor
Who makes it
Nature’s Way has been in business since 1969 after the founder Tom Murdock needed to find a solution to his wife’s compromised health. He learned about the healing powers of plants and helped his wife live an additional 25 years.
Benefits
Research has shown us that elderberry can offer some respectable benefits. Now, there are several forms of elderberry. However, the European version (also known as Sambucus nigra) is what most people use for the potential health-promoting effects. We’ve provided some useful information on the benefits of taking elderberry below…
Improved symptoms of the cold and flu
Improved symptoms of the cold and flu is one of the most prominent benefits of elderberry.
In one study of 312 economy class passengers that traveled for several hours overseas, researchers found that taking elderberry extract can result in “a significant reduction of cold duration and severity in air travelers“. (1)
When 300mg of elderberry was taken 10 days prior and 4-5 days following the trip, the duration of cold symptoms was shortened by 2 days. This study compared the effects of elderberry against a placebo group who experienced cold symptoms for a longer duration although cold episodes weren’t significant between the two groups.
According to the study, there was a low overall occurrence of symptoms in this particular trial of travelers. Therefore, it was concluded that more research needed to be done. However, this is definitely promising evidence.
One review of a study that enrolled sixty patients with influenza-like symptoms during the influenza season of 1999-2000 in Norway found that taking 15 ml of elderberry syrup four times a day for 5 days improved the duration 4 days earlier compared to the placebo group. (2)
As far as immune system health, research in rats has shown positive effects on white blood cells which make up a large portion of the immune system.
Many products also include immune-boosting ingredients in elderberry products such as vitamin C and zinc to possibly heighten the overall effects.
Elderberry seems to be a viable option for improving cold and flu symptoms.
Heart health
A few studies of rats discovered improvements in HDL (good) cholesterol and blood pressure due to the Anthocyanins contained in black elderberry which are polyphenols that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. (3, 4)
It may also reduce levels of uric acid which is associated with hypertension and significant vascular changes. (5)
Diabetes and obesity
More and more people are being diagnosed with diabetes which occurs when the body cannot effectively utilize insulin. If your body cannot use insulin properly, blood sugar levels can become too high and this can result in some serious health issues.
Elderberry has been shown to have hypoglycemic properties in addition to the antioxidant properties. (6)
Protection from UV radiation
Chronic exposure to UV radiation from the sun can cause premature aging of the skin and skin cancer. (7)
Research shows that the polyphenols in elderberry can supplement the use of sunscreen in some instances to protect the skin against damage and the cancers that can develop.
Could protect against cancer
Elderberry has antiviral and anticancer properties according to scientific literature. This comes down to the compounds mentioned that are contained in it. (8, 9)
May have antidepressant properties
In one study, elderberry showed remarkable antidepressant activity in mice. It was also concluded to be a safe therapy. (10)
This by no means implies that it’s an effective treatment for humans as more research needs to be conducted.
Rich in healthy nutrients
Elderberry contains antioxidants which help to protect the body’s cells from damage. This prevents the development of diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, etc. Overall, its high activity compounds include polyphenols (mostly anthocyanins), flavonols, phenolic acids, proanthocyanidins, terpenes, and lectins. (6)
It also contains protein and amino acids of which the latter are the building blocks of protein, plus vitamins, minerals, fiber, unsaturated fatty acids, and more.
How We Ranked
Here are a few criteria that we took into consideration when putting together our list of best elderberry supplements.
Effectiveness
Because we chose quality products that are dosed right where you’d want them to be for daily supplementation, there’s no doubt that our picks are effective. Now with that being said, some users will have a different experience depending on the product.
Therefore, we can’t necessarily say that one is better than the other. We recommended choosing a product from a reputable company that tests its products and uses good manufacturing practices. In addition, see what other users are saying about it.
Overall value
We consider a good value to be a combination of…
- Quality of ingredients
- Amount of servings for the price
- Company reputation/history
- User feedback
Some companies are newer or just haven’t been around for as long but are definitely top-notch. We also consider these companies if they meet the above criteria as well.
Who Should Buy an Elderberry Product
Elderberry may a viable option for improving many factors of health. Although research isn’t conclusive on all of the potential benefits, we think there’s enough that justifies including in a daily nutritional health regime. It can be safe and helpful for both adults and children although the doses should be taken accordingly.
Also, it should only be considered by healthy individuals who aren’t currently taking medication/s. Although, it’s always a good idea to consult with a medical professional who may give you clearance to use it depending on your situation.
How Should I Pick A Good Elderberry Product?
- Ingredients – All ingredients should contribute to the overall effectiveness of the product.
- Brand reputation – Many brands have been around for a while and have built a solid reputation. They disclose their ingredients, make known their manufacturing practices with certifications, and have a loyal fanbase. But this can also be said for newer companies with the same credentials and satisfied users.
- Value – A good value offers a respectable amount of the key ingredient/s with an appropriate number of servings for a price that reflects what the product offers.
- Key Ingredients content – elderberry should be of good quality from a reputable source with a good track record. Additional ingredients should contribute to the effectiveness or quality of the products and should be safe.
- Convenience factor – elderberry capsules, gummies, or syrups are all convenient and you won’t have to go out your way to get your daily dose.
Side Effects
Elderberry can cause common side effects such as stomach discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, and sometimes other unfavorable reactions. Although, it’s generally considered safe in supplement form.
Where it can be unsafe is when you consume the bark, raw, unripe berries, and leaves which contain a poison called cyanogenic glycoside. Therefore, we don’t recommend that you consume elderberry in this form as it can cause some very unpleasant side effects, although rarely ever is it fatal.
As long as you follow the recommended dosages on the product label, you should be fine.
Recommended Dosage
There isn’t really a one-size-fits-all recommendation for the “most optimal” intake of elderberry. Quality companies typically dose their products appropriately and so with that being said, we recommend that you follow the instructions on the product label to ensure you’re taking a safe and effective dose. Do not exceed the recommended dosages.
At the onset of cold or flu symptoms, you’d probably experience the most benefits by taking it within 48 hours.
FAQ
What's the best form of elderberry?
There isn’t much evidence to suggest that there’s a superior form. Gummies, syrups, teas, etc, all seem to be viable options and the product itself is a better indicator of quality and effectiveness.
Can children take elderberry?
Yes. In fact, there are products that are made specifically for little ones. They need a smaller dose than adults.
Can I just eat elderberry for the same benefits?
Consuming elderberries is an option, however, it’s not recommended to eat raw berries, that contain a poison called cyanogenic glycoside. Cooking and eating elderberries in moderation is considered safe though.
Does it matter when you take elderberry?
There’s no “ideal” time to take elderberry in general. However, you’re likely to benefit from taking it most at the onset of cold and flu symptoms. Research supports this strategy.
Recap
We hope you found this list of best Elderberry supplements and the information provided to be very helpful in deciding if it’s right for you. Elderberry definitely has its place in the health regimes of many as it does provide health benefits and there are various ways to take your daily dose.
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