Elderberry Benefits

Elderberry flowers and berries help to support a healthy immune system. The elderberry tree has been used throughout history to treat coughs and colds, and recent scientific studies have begun to reveal more about the health benefits of this high-antioxidant plant.

What are elderberries?

The elderberry plant, whose scientific name is Sambucus, is a type of flowering plant. The berries and flowers of elderberry are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system. The berries and flowers are rich in anthocyanins, iron, vitamin A and vitamin C. The raw berries, bark and leaves of the plant are known to be poisonous and can cause stomach cramps. 

Elderberries are actually very tart and have to be cooked before being eaten. There are many types of the elderberry tree and the most common type is Sambucus nigra or European Elderberry. They both contain high levels of anthocyanin and cytokines. 

What are the benefits of elderberries?

The berries and flowers of the elderberry plant help the immune system to mount an optimal fever response to kill off pathogens that are susceptible to the heat. At a microscopic level, elderberries promote a healthy immune response against viruses by increasing the number of inflammatory molecules called cytokines. Studies have revealed that consuming a diet rich in anthocyanin may help to strengthen the blood vessels, balance the immune system and combat inflammation. The immune system is important in helping us to fight viruses and diseases. Discover how the immune system helps to protect us here.

What are Anthocyanins?

Anthocyanins are one of over 6,000 members of the flavonoid family of polyphenol phytochemicals. Anthocyanins are natural plant pigments that have a variety of beneficial effects on the body, including high antioxidant properties to support the immune system. Plants high in anthocyanin compounds are identified by the dark blue, purple and red colours, for example, açai berries, elderberries and blueberries. Other plants that are rich in anthocyanin are teas, wine, fruits, vegetables, nuts, olive oil and cocoa.

Anthocyanins may be ingested through dietary elderberry supplements, such as anthocyanin-rich fruit extracts.

What are cytokines?

Cytokines are a broad category of small proteins that are important in cell signalling. Cytokines can cause local and systemic inflammation, encouraging immune cells to the area to help clear infection.

What Rejuvenated product contains elderberry supplements?

Rejuvenated’s Immune Complex contains elderberry and a host of other ingredients to promote well-being and a healthy immune system.