In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleReviewsOur Top RecommendationsWhat Are Elderberries?How to Use ElderberryWe Also ConsideredThe Bottom LineOur Vetting ProcessChoosing an Elderberry SupplementOur Trusted Expertise
In This ArticleView All
In This Article
View All
Reviews
Our Top Recommendations
What Are Elderberries?
How to Use Elderberry
We Also Considered
The Bottom Line
Our Vetting Process
Choosing an Elderberry Supplement
Our Trusted Expertise
Photo:EatingWell / Henry Wortock
EatingWell / Henry Wortock
Elderberry syrups and gummies weren’t commonly sold in drugstores five to 10 years ago. If a pharmacy did carry it, then there were very few options to choose from. But fast-forward to today and elderberry supplements have claimed their own shelf or two on the supplement aisle. They’re a popular product during cold and flu season to ease symptoms and help you feel better more quickly. And as we learned, some people alsouse elderberry regularlyto support their immune system and reduce risk of getting sick.
What’s important to know about elderberry supplements? Which are the most effective? Can kids take them? We consulted our favorite holistic healthcare provider, Dr. Keri Marshall, M.S., ND, who has over 20 years of experience in the natural products industry. She filled us in on what’s important and shared her top elderberry recommendations.
Spoiler: Marshall’s immediate answer when asked about her overall thoughts on elderberry supplements was “huge fan!” One reason she likes them is for their nutrition and safety, because they are made from edible berries. Marshall adds that the berries are loaded with potent antioxidants known as polyphenols. They are particularly high in a type of polyphenol known as anthocyanins from which the berries—and subsequently syrups and gummies—get their deep purple color. Marshall explains that antioxidants neutralize free radicals in the body, preventing cellular damage. Anytime the immune system is triggered, there is an increase in inflammation and free radicals. As a result, antioxidant intake takes on an even greater importance to prevent free radical damage and to support immune function when the immune system is fighting off illness.
Marshall says elderberry supplements can be used one of two ways, depending on your health goals. First, Marshall notes they can be used as a preventive therapy. “When a patient is going on a trip and wants to know what they can take to boost the immune system, this is what I suggest. Elderberry increases the body’s defenses with its concentrated antioxidants,” says Marshall. She says taking an elderberry supplement doesn’t guarantee you won’t get sick, but that it can definitely help.
An elderberry supplement may not be one you may take every day, but we think it’s a really good idea to keep them on hand for when you need some extra immune and defense support. We combed the shelves to compare products, and here are the seven best elderberry supplements we found on the market.
Best OverallBold Botanica Bold Elderberry ElixirPHOTO: Amazon$25 at AmazonView on Boldbotanica.comForm:Liquid |Amount per serving:1 teaspoon |Independently verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$25 for 24 dosesWhat we like:It containsthe highest amount of fresh berries (18 g) per dose and the extraction process is designed to limit loss of antioxidants. It’s also sugar-free and keto- and Paleo-friendly.What to know:It needs to be refrigerated once opened and used within 60 days.One teaspoon of this elderberry elixir is equivalent to consuming the antioxidants found in 18 grams of fresh elderberries. This is the most we found among supplements, and this potency is due to Bold Botanica’s low-heat, solvent-free extraction method, which preserves the integrity of the polyphenols in the berries. The primary ingredients in this syrup-like elixir are elderberry extract, water and extracts of aronia and rowan berries, two other berries with high antioxidant content according to Marshall. Monk fruit gives the sugar-free syrup its sweetness and makes it a great option for anyone watching blood glucose levels or trying to minimize added sugars. According to the brand, this also means the supplement can be used while following a keto or Paleo eating approach. The standard adult dosage is one teaspoon a day, but the product says adults can take one teaspoon four times a day for more “intensive” needs when sick. We like the fact that while it’s designed for adults, it also includes dosage recommendations for kids 4 years and up.Once we discovered it, this Bold Elderberry Elixir quickly became the standard against which compared all other elderberry supplements. You’re not going to find a bigger antioxidant boost, and the brand’s focus on quality and preservation of antioxidants is why this was an easy pick for #1.PHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell/Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry Wortock
Best OverallBold Botanica Bold Elderberry ElixirPHOTO: Amazon$25 at AmazonView on Boldbotanica.com
Best OverallBold Botanica Bold Elderberry Elixir
Best Overall
Bold Botanica Bold Elderberry Elixir
PHOTO: Amazon
$25 at AmazonView on Boldbotanica.com
Form:Liquid |Amount per serving:1 teaspoon |Independently verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$25 for 24 doses
What we like:It containsthe highest amount of fresh berries (18 g) per dose and the extraction process is designed to limit loss of antioxidants. It’s also sugar-free and keto- and Paleo-friendly.
What to know:It needs to be refrigerated once opened and used within 60 days.
One teaspoon of this elderberry elixir is equivalent to consuming the antioxidants found in 18 grams of fresh elderberries. This is the most we found among supplements, and this potency is due to Bold Botanica’s low-heat, solvent-free extraction method, which preserves the integrity of the polyphenols in the berries. The primary ingredients in this syrup-like elixir are elderberry extract, water and extracts of aronia and rowan berries, two other berries with high antioxidant content according to Marshall. Monk fruit gives the sugar-free syrup its sweetness and makes it a great option for anyone watching blood glucose levels or trying to minimize added sugars. According to the brand, this also means the supplement can be used while following a keto or Paleo eating approach. The standard adult dosage is one teaspoon a day, but the product says adults can take one teaspoon four times a day for more “intensive” needs when sick. We like the fact that while it’s designed for adults, it also includes dosage recommendations for kids 4 years and up.
Once we discovered it, this Bold Elderberry Elixir quickly became the standard against which compared all other elderberry supplements. You’re not going to find a bigger antioxidant boost, and the brand’s focus on quality and preservation of antioxidants is why this was an easy pick for #1.
PHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell/Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry Wortock
Also GreatGaia Herbs Black Elderberry SyrupPHOTO: Amazon$45 at AmazonView on Gaiaherbs.comForm:Liquid |Amount per serving:1 teaspoon |Independently verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$32 for 32 dosesWhat we like:It contains the second highest amount of fresh berries (14.5 g) per dose, is organic and has a simple ingredient list that includes cane sugar for sweetener.What to know:It also needs to berefrigerated once opened and each dose contains 4 g added sugar.Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup is a great alternative to the Bold Botanic syrup (our top overall pick), especially if you’d prefer one that’s sweetened with a natural sugar source rather than an alternative one such as monk fruit. It’s also a great value at only around $1 per dose (the cheapest syrup on this list). A one-teaspoon dose contains the same amount of immune-boosting compounds as what you’d find in 14.5 g of fresh elderberries, making this product the second highest among our recommendations. We like that its ingredients are simple—only elderberry extract, water, cane sugar syrup and lemon juice. We also love the fact that this product includes dosing for those ages 4 and up, as well as for toddlers between the ages of 1 to 3.The product is USDA-certified organic, and Gaia Herbs does extensive in-house testing throughout the procurement and manufacturing process. This elderberry syrup is among Marshall’s top three recommendations and is a great liquid option for the whole household.PHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry Wortock
Also GreatGaia Herbs Black Elderberry SyrupPHOTO: Amazon$45 at AmazonView on Gaiaherbs.com
Also GreatGaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup
Also Great
Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup
$45 at AmazonView on Gaiaherbs.com
Form:Liquid |Amount per serving:1 teaspoon |Independently verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$32 for 32 doses
What we like:It contains the second highest amount of fresh berries (14.5 g) per dose, is organic and has a simple ingredient list that includes cane sugar for sweetener.
What to know:It also needs to berefrigerated once opened and each dose contains 4 g added sugar.
Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup is a great alternative to the Bold Botanic syrup (our top overall pick), especially if you’d prefer one that’s sweetened with a natural sugar source rather than an alternative one such as monk fruit. It’s also a great value at only around $1 per dose (the cheapest syrup on this list). A one-teaspoon dose contains the same amount of immune-boosting compounds as what you’d find in 14.5 g of fresh elderberries, making this product the second highest among our recommendations. We like that its ingredients are simple—only elderberry extract, water, cane sugar syrup and lemon juice. We also love the fact that this product includes dosing for those ages 4 and up, as well as for toddlers between the ages of 1 to 3.
The product is USDA-certified organic, and Gaia Herbs does extensive in-house testing throughout the procurement and manufacturing process. This elderberry syrup is among Marshall’s top three recommendations and is a great liquid option for the whole household.
PHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry Wortock
Best ValueSambucol Black Elderberry SyrupPHOTO: Amazon$13$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at WalmartForm:Liquid |Amount per serving:2 teaspoons |Independently verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$15 for 12 dosesWhat we like:This syrup is widely available at drugstores and groceries. There are no artificial flavors, sweeteners or colorings and it’s free from gluten and all major allergens.What to know:It needs to be stored in a cool, dry place to preserve quality and each dose contains 4 g added sugar.“The Sambucol brand has been around the longest and is likely the most well researched,” says Marshall. We also like that the company focuses exclusively on elderberry products. (The brand’s name comes from the scientific name for black elderberries, Sambucus nigra.) The syrup’s primary ingredients are elderberry extract, water and glucose syrup for sweetness, which adds 4 g of sugar per dose—an amount that’s a little higher than we’d like, but we found that to be the norm among elderberry supplements. Recommended dosing for those 4 years and older is two teaspoons per day; the product packaging says this may be increased to four times a day for “intensive” use.Overall, one teaspoon provides an antioxidant amount that’s equivalent to what’s in 4 g of fresh elderberry. While this is less than several other recommendations on this list, the Sambucol syrup is more potent than many elderberry supplements we found on the market. So when you factor in the fact that it costs over 50% less than our other recommendations, we think this is a great option to keep on hand.PHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry Wortock
Best ValueSambucol Black Elderberry SyrupPHOTO: Amazon$13$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at Walmart
Best ValueSambucol Black Elderberry Syrup
Best Value
Sambucol Black Elderberry Syrup
$13$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at Walmart
Form:Liquid |Amount per serving:2 teaspoons |Independently verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$15 for 12 doses
What we like:This syrup is widely available at drugstores and groceries. There are no artificial flavors, sweeteners or colorings and it’s free from gluten and all major allergens.
What to know:It needs to be stored in a cool, dry place to preserve quality and each dose contains 4 g added sugar.
“The Sambucol brand has been around the longest and is likely the most well researched,” says Marshall. We also like that the company focuses exclusively on elderberry products. (The brand’s name comes from the scientific name for black elderberries, Sambucus nigra.) The syrup’s primary ingredients are elderberry extract, water and glucose syrup for sweetness, which adds 4 g of sugar per dose—an amount that’s a little higher than we’d like, but we found that to be the norm among elderberry supplements. Recommended dosing for those 4 years and older is two teaspoons per day; the product packaging says this may be increased to four times a day for “intensive” use.
Overall, one teaspoon provides an antioxidant amount that’s equivalent to what’s in 4 g of fresh elderberry. While this is less than several other recommendations on this list, the Sambucol syrup is more potent than many elderberry supplements we found on the market. So when you factor in the fact that it costs over 50% less than our other recommendations, we think this is a great option to keep on hand.
Best GummyMegaFood Elderberry Immune Support GummiesPHOTO: Amazon$14 at Amazon$15 at TargetView on Megafood.comForm:Gummy |Amount per serving:2 gummies |Independently verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$14 for 27 dosesWhat we like:It’s USDA-certified organic, issweetened with cane sugar and contains only 2 g added sugar per dose.What to know:The dosage equivalent to fresh elderberries is not provided.There area lotof elderberry gummies on the market (we spotted a grocery store brand at the end cap of our local store recently!), but as we quickly learned, they aren’t all created equal when it comes to the amount of elderberry in them and additional ingredients they may contain. Even though Marshall is partial to the larger doses that you’ll only get in liquid or capsule forms, this MegaFood product is her top pick if you really want a gummy option. The gummies' flavor and color comes directly from the anthocyanins in the elderberry extract and contain no artificial colors or flavorings; they’re also free from gluten and all other major allergens. They are sweetened using organic cane sugar and contain 2 g of added sugar per serving—an amount that’s low among gummy options that don’t use a sugar-free sweetener. The product also boasts that it contains no GMOs and is tested to ensure it is free from over 150 pesticides. There’s not much to improve with these, which is why they’re out top gummy pick.PHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry Wortock
Best GummyMegaFood Elderberry Immune Support GummiesPHOTO: Amazon$14 at Amazon$15 at TargetView on Megafood.com
Best GummyMegaFood Elderberry Immune Support Gummies
Best Gummy
MegaFood Elderberry Immune Support Gummies
$14 at Amazon$15 at TargetView on Megafood.com
Form:Gummy |Amount per serving:2 gummies |Independently verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$14 for 27 doses
What we like:It’s USDA-certified organic, issweetened with cane sugar and contains only 2 g added sugar per dose.
What to know:The dosage equivalent to fresh elderberries is not provided.
There area lotof elderberry gummies on the market (we spotted a grocery store brand at the end cap of our local store recently!), but as we quickly learned, they aren’t all created equal when it comes to the amount of elderberry in them and additional ingredients they may contain. Even though Marshall is partial to the larger doses that you’ll only get in liquid or capsule forms, this MegaFood product is her top pick if you really want a gummy option. The gummies' flavor and color comes directly from the anthocyanins in the elderberry extract and contain no artificial colors or flavorings; they’re also free from gluten and all other major allergens. They are sweetened using organic cane sugar and contain 2 g of added sugar per serving—an amount that’s low among gummy options that don’t use a sugar-free sweetener. The product also boasts that it contains no GMOs and is tested to ensure it is free from over 150 pesticides. There’s not much to improve with these, which is why they’re out top gummy pick.
Best CapsuleLife Extension Black Elderberry + Vitamin CPHOTO: Amazon$27 at Amazon$27 at TargetView on Lifeextension.com
Best CapsuleLife Extension Black Elderberry + Vitamin C
Best Capsule
Life Extension Black Elderberry + Vitamin C
$27 at Amazon$27 at TargetView on Lifeextension.com
Form:Capsule |Amount per serving:2 capsules |Independently verified:Yes |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$27 for 30 doses
What we like:It’s independently verified and contains 200% of your daily value (DV) for vitamin C.
Unlike liquid forms, capsules are convenient, portable and easy to take. They also can pack an antioxidant punch that’s comparable to liquid forms. If you prefer capsules, Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES, a dietitian based in Washington, D.C., recommends this elderberry supplement that includes vitamin C. “With vitamin C in this formula, you also get an added immune boost,” says Thomason.
Best Elderberry with ZincBold Botanica Bold Elderberry Plus with Zinc and Vitamin CPHOTO: Amazon$24 at Amazon$39 at WalmartView on Boldbotanica.com
Best Elderberry with ZincBold Botanica Bold Elderberry Plus with Zinc and Vitamin C
Best Elderberry with Zinc
Bold Botanica Bold Elderberry Plus with Zinc and Vitamin C
$24 at Amazon$39 at WalmartView on Boldbotanica.com
Form:Capsule |Amount per serving:1 capsule |Independently Verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$24 for 30 doses
What we like:The extraction process is designed to limit the loss of antioxidants and the supplement contains third highest amount of fresh elderberries (12.7 g) per dose.
What to know:One capsule delivers more than 100% of your daily vitamin C and zinc needs so you probably don’t want to use this product year-round.
This is a great elderberry option to take during cold and flu season to support the immune system and the body’s defenses, but most people don’t need the higher amounts of vitamin C and zinc found in this capsule all year long. We think this elderberry supplement is a great option to save to use seasonally rather than year-round for immune support.
Best for KidsGaia Kids Black Elderberry SyrupPHOTO: Amazon$20 at Amazon$20 at WalmartView on Gaiaherbs.comForm:Liquid |Amount per serving:½ to 1 teaspoon |Independently Verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$18 for 36 (½-tsp) dosesWhat we like:This supplement is USDA-certified organic and has a simple ingredient list that includes a combination of cane sugar and honey for sweetness.What to know:It needs to be refrigerated once opened and contains 2 g added sugar per dose.Our top pick for kids is similar to the Gaia adult syrup mentioned above in that its ingredient list is super simple: elderberries, cane sugar, water, honey and lemon. The syrup’s potency comes in lower, kid-appropriate amounts with one dose (½ teaspoon) providing the equivalent of 7 g of fresh elderberries. Recommendations suggest one dose per day, but the product says this can be increased to twice daily for additional support. The sweet berry flavor comes from a combination of elderberry extract mixed with organic sugar and honey, which adds a small amount of added sugar (2 g per dose). This is comparable to what’s in adult syrups and probably worth it if it means kids actually like the taste. In general, elderberry supplements are not recommended for those under 1 year of age, and this is even more important to follow considering it contains honey, which can pose a botulism risk for infants under the age of one.PHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry WortockPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry Wortock
Best for KidsGaia Kids Black Elderberry SyrupPHOTO: Amazon$20 at Amazon$20 at WalmartView on Gaiaherbs.com
Best for KidsGaia Kids Black Elderberry Syrup
Best for Kids
Gaia Kids Black Elderberry Syrup
$20 at Amazon$20 at WalmartView on Gaiaherbs.com
Form:Liquid |Amount per serving:½ to 1 teaspoon |Independently Verified:Unknown |In-house tested:Yes |Price:$18 for 36 (½-tsp) doses
What we like:This supplement is USDA-certified organic and has a simple ingredient list that includes a combination of cane sugar and honey for sweetness.
What to know:It needs to be refrigerated once opened and contains 2 g added sugar per dose.
Our top pick for kids is similar to the Gaia adult syrup mentioned above in that its ingredient list is super simple: elderberries, cane sugar, water, honey and lemon. The syrup’s potency comes in lower, kid-appropriate amounts with one dose (½ teaspoon) providing the equivalent of 7 g of fresh elderberries. Recommendations suggest one dose per day, but the product says this can be increased to twice daily for additional support. The sweet berry flavor comes from a combination of elderberry extract mixed with organic sugar and honey, which adds a small amount of added sugar (2 g per dose). This is comparable to what’s in adult syrups and probably worth it if it means kids actually like the taste. In general, elderberry supplements are not recommended for those under 1 year of age, and this is even more important to follow considering it contains honey, which can pose a botulism risk for infants under the age of one.
Nature’s Way Organic Sambucus Zinc Lozenges($7 for 24 lozenges at Nature’s Way):Many times you may not go shopping for an elderberry supplement until you have a cough, sore throat or nasal congestion, so a lozenge seems like a great way to get a dose of elderberry and symptom-relief at the same time. The reality is that the amount of elderberry in this lozenge—and others we looked at—is only around 1 to 4% of what a liquid or capsule contains. If you like the berry taste and symptom relief, there’s nothing wrong with these lozenges, and they do contain some vitamin C and zinc, but don’t rely on these as your primary elderberry source for immune support.
Traditional Medicinals Echinacea Plus Elderberry Tea($5 for 16 servings at Target):Herbal tea is great for congestion and sore throats, and Marshall says herbal teas are good to drink when sick for the hydration they provide. And an elderberry tea seems like another way to get a dose of antioxidants while also soothing symptoms. However, similar to lozenges, Marshall says that teas contain very minimal elderberry extract and not enough to offer therapeutic benefits on their own.
The Bottom Line: The Best Elderberry Supplement
Our top pick for an elderberry supplement isBold Botanica’s Bold Elderberry Elixir(view at Amazon). When comparing it to others, this product packs in the most concentrated source of elderberries and antioxidants, which are responsible for its demonstrated therapeutic effects on the immune system and respiratory infections. We also love that it falls in a middle price range—not the cheapest but also $10 less than the most expensive—and that it includes dosage recommendations for everyone in the house over 4 years of age. All of our recommendations are based on quality, and this one is top of the line.
EatingWell/Henry Wortock
Our Search for the Best Elderberry Supplements
Before comparing brands and products, we looked at current research to more fully understand the elderberry plant and its therapeutic usage. Marshall also provided us background on the supplement, purchasing considerations, usage and efficacy, based on her 20-plus years of knowledge as a holistic health practitioner and an expert consultant in the supplement industry.
All of the products recommended in this list go through in-house testing processes, many of which are extensive and done multiple times during the manufacturing process and are conducted in a Good Manufacturing Practices certified facility (cGMP). In addition, most products are either USDA-certified organic or use USDA-certified organic elderberries in their product.
Form: Liquid is best
Liquid elderberry supplements (such as syrups, elixirs and tonics) are a significantly more concentrated source of elderberries and its antioxidants, according to Marshall, and we definitely found this to be true when comparing products. Capsules can also be a concentrated source, and we highlight two capsule options among our recommendations. Gummies provide smaller amounts of elderberry extracts, so they have less antioxidant power.
The concentration and potency in all forms varies greatly. To identify those that contain the most elderberries, Marshall says to look for the “grams of elderberry per dose” on the packaging to compare. This is different from the milligram amount of elderberry extract listed on the Supplement Facts panel, which she says you can’t really use for product comparison since the potency of the extracts varies greatly. The “grams of fresh elderberries” amount is what allows for a true product-to-product comparison, and you’ll usually find the fresh elderberry amount listed below the Supplement Facts panel. If you can’t find it, then check the product’s webpage. Some brands don’t provide this amount, so we recommend sticking to brands that do provide it.
Look for independent verification or in-house testing
If independent verification isn’t available, check to see if the manufacturer conducts regular in-house testing. Some manufacturers may even go so far as to have certified in-house labs, which suggests an exceptional commitment to quality.
Read the ingredients
Liquid forms contain an elderberry extract suspended in a solution that typically contains water and sugar or a sugar-free sweetener. If sweetened with sugar, it adds a small amount of calories (20 to 30 calories per dose). If choosing a product that is sugar-free, we recommend opting for one that uses a plant-based sugar substitute such as monk fruit or stevia, rather than an artificial one like sucralose. Most syrups and gummies get their coloring and flavoring naturally from the elderberry extract used, but it never hurts to check labels to ensure no artificial colorings or flavorings have been added, if that’s something you’re concerned about. Additionally, some elderberry supplements may incorporate additional nutrients and/or natural products such as vitamin C, zinc, ashwagandha and echinacea. If you are taking other supplements, read the label carefully to make sure you are not greatly exceeding your nutrient intake. We recommend checking with your doctor before taking an elderberry supplement that contains additional herbal ingredients since some may have medication interactions and/or pose risks.
Common Questions
What are the health benefits of elderberry?
Elderberries have a nutrition profile similar to other berries like blueberries and strawberries, and this includes being a great source of antioxidants. “Elderberries contain some of the highest antioxidant amounts among berries,” says Marshall.
Most research has focused on these effects, but there are some very preliminary studies that suggest elderberry’s anti-inflammatory compounds may potentially improve glucose management and insulin sensitivity, lower blood pressure and heart disease risk, slow the aging process of cells and offer protection against the mechanisms associated with the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
How much elderberry should I take?
Marshall recommends dosing based on whether a person’s goal is to boost immune defenses or get over an illness.
What is the best time of day to take an elderberry supplement?
Marshall says that elderberry supplements can be taken any time during the day. She says there is no “best time” at which to take them.
Are there side effects to elderberry supplements?
Little to no side effects are associated with elderberry supplements. Unripe berries, leaves, and stems from the elderberry bush contain a toxin which may cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. However, these side effects aren’t associated with elderberry supplements on the market since these products use ripe berries and may even use some heat to extract their compounds, which further eliminates any potential toxin residue.
Who should not take elderberry supplements?
Elderberry supplements are safe for most individuals and ages, according to Marshall. The one exception is someone who is allergic or sensitive to berries. In this case, elderberry supplements should not be taken.
Elderberry supplements are not recommended for those under 1 year of age, and this is even more important to follow if an elderberry supplement contains honey, which can pose a botulism risk for infants. Also, pregnant women should always check with their doctor before taking any dietary supplement.
Carolyn Williams, Ph.D., RDN, is a registered dietitian, tenured college professor and journalist who’s written on a host of nutrition and health topics. She specializes in the relationship between diet and chronic inflammation and co-hosts the podcast Happy Eating, which explores the connection that mental wellness has to diet and lifestyle. She interviewed two experts in researching and writing this article:
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SourcesEatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.Harnett J, Oakes K, Carè J, et al.The effects ofSambucus nigraberry on acute respiratory viral infections: A rapid review of clinical studies.Adv Integr Med. 2020;7(4):240-246. doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2020.08.001Hawkins J, Baker C, Cherry L, Dunne E.Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials.Complement Ther Med. 2019;42:361-365. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2018.12.004Osman AG, Avula B, Katragunta K, Ali Z, Chittiboyina AG, Khan IA.Elderberry Extracts: Characterization of the Polyphenolic Chemical Composition, Quality Consistency, Safety, Adulteration, and Attenuation of Oxidative Stress- and Inflammation-Induced Health Disorders.Molecules. 2023;28(7):3148. Published 2023 Mar 31. doi:10.3390/molecules28073148National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Health Information.Elderberry.
Sources
EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.Harnett J, Oakes K, Carè J, et al.The effects ofSambucus nigraberry on acute respiratory viral infections: A rapid review of clinical studies.Adv Integr Med. 2020;7(4):240-246. doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2020.08.001Hawkins J, Baker C, Cherry L, Dunne E.Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials.Complement Ther Med. 2019;42:361-365. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2018.12.004Osman AG, Avula B, Katragunta K, Ali Z, Chittiboyina AG, Khan IA.Elderberry Extracts: Characterization of the Polyphenolic Chemical Composition, Quality Consistency, Safety, Adulteration, and Attenuation of Oxidative Stress- and Inflammation-Induced Health Disorders.Molecules. 2023;28(7):3148. Published 2023 Mar 31. doi:10.3390/molecules28073148National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Health Information.Elderberry.
EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
Harnett J, Oakes K, Carè J, et al.The effects ofSambucus nigraberry on acute respiratory viral infections: A rapid review of clinical studies.Adv Integr Med. 2020;7(4):240-246. doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2020.08.001Hawkins J, Baker C, Cherry L, Dunne E.Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials.Complement Ther Med. 2019;42:361-365. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2018.12.004Osman AG, Avula B, Katragunta K, Ali Z, Chittiboyina AG, Khan IA.Elderberry Extracts: Characterization of the Polyphenolic Chemical Composition, Quality Consistency, Safety, Adulteration, and Attenuation of Oxidative Stress- and Inflammation-Induced Health Disorders.Molecules. 2023;28(7):3148. Published 2023 Mar 31. doi:10.3390/molecules28073148National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Health Information.Elderberry.
Harnett J, Oakes K, Carè J, et al.The effects ofSambucus nigraberry on acute respiratory viral infections: A rapid review of clinical studies.Adv Integr Med. 2020;7(4):240-246. doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2020.08.001
Hawkins J, Baker C, Cherry L, Dunne E.Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials.Complement Ther Med. 2019;42:361-365. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2018.12.004
Osman AG, Avula B, Katragunta K, Ali Z, Chittiboyina AG, Khan IA.Elderberry Extracts: Characterization of the Polyphenolic Chemical Composition, Quality Consistency, Safety, Adulteration, and Attenuation of Oxidative Stress- and Inflammation-Induced Health Disorders.Molecules. 2023;28(7):3148. Published 2023 Mar 31. doi:10.3390/molecules28073148
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Health Information.Elderberry.
