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Elderberry

A standardized, organic Elderberry extract
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Black elderberry has a long tradition of use for immune support. The berries are high in flavonoids, predominantly anthocyanins, but also quercetin and rutin. Anthocyanins impart the characteristic purple color to the berries, as well as much of the bio-efficacy in terms of antioxidant activity, balancing inflammation metabolism, and supporting immune function.

Today’s PLT elderberry portfolio includes extracts standardized to 6% and 10% anthocyanins, offered in both standard and organic grades in a powder form. Quality for these ingredients is assured by a per-batch testing program including fingerprint analysis for identification and quantification of anthocyanins, DNA sequential barcoding for authenticity, analysis for adulteration using the MALDI TOF technique, and standardization of biomarkers.

Key Features

  • Standardized anthocyanin content
  • Organic grade available
  • Secure supply
  • Per-batch testing
  • Adulterant-free
  • Non-GMO
  • Gluten-free
  • Additive-free
  • Kosher/Halal
  • Sustainably grown
Elderberry Hands
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Health Benefits

Elderberry has immune-modulating activity due to its ability to stimulate production of certain cytokines, and to activate and mobilize phagocytes. It also supports non-specific immune responses and promotes immune defense.

The berries of the black elder plant (Sambucus nigra) have been used traditionally for centuries to support upper respiratory tract and immune health. The berries have been shown to exert immune activity, powerful antioxidant effects, and modulation of inflammation metabolism in vitro and in vivo, among many other demonstrated actions.

Elderberries contain many active phytochemicals, most importantly a class of flavonoids called anthocyanins (e.g., cyanidin 3-glucoside), which are known to boost immune function. Oral ingestion of elderberry results in detectable levels of these anthocyanins in blood.

While evidence from controlled clinical trials on some uses of elderberry is still emerging, the safety and demonstrated bioactivity of the plant make it a compelling addition to immune, cardiovascular, neurological, and metabolic support products.

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Research
Botanist with plants

In addition to its long history of traditional use, Elderberry has been the subject of numerous clinical trials and preclinical studies. In a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, supplementation with elderberry was found to substantially reduce upper respiratory symptoms.

Relevant Studies

Gafner S. Tales from the Elder. Adulteration Issues of Elder Berry. HerbalGram 2021; Issue 3 (March).

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.

Harnett J, Oakes K, Carè J, et al. The effects of Sambucus nigra berry on acute respiratory viral infections: A rapid review of clinical studies. Adv Integr Med. 2020;7(4):240-246.

Ulbricht C, Basch E, Cheung L, et al. An evidence-based systematic review of elderberry and elderflower (Sambucus nigra) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. J Diet Suppl. 2014;11(1):80-120. doi:10.3109/19390211.2013.859852

Vlachojannis JE, Cameron M, Chrubasik S. A systematic review on the sambuci fructus effect and efficacy profiles. Phytother Res. 2010;24(1):1-8. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2729.

Wieland LS, Piechotta V, Feinberg T, et al. Elderberry for prevention and treatment of viral respiratory illnesses: a systematic review. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2021;21(1):112. Published 2021 Apr 7. doi:10.1186/s12906-021-03283-5

 

Origins

A Standardized, Assured Identity Ingredient

PLT elderberry extracts are  based on the Haschberg cultivar of Sambucus nigra, which contains a high level of naturally-occurring anthocyanins. Our innovation partner Nektium Pharma (Las Palmas, Spain) has secured long-term supply agreements with black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) growers in Central Europe and extracts finished product at its state-of-the-art facilities in the Canary Islands.

To assure you of the highest quality ingredient available, every batch of PLT-supplied elderberry extract undergoes a number of qualifying tests.

  • Fingerprint analysis for identification and quantification of anthocyanins
  • DNA sequential barcoding for authenticity
  • Analysis for adulteration via MALDI-TOF technique
  • Standardization of biomarkers

ELDERBERRY CHART

HPLC Analysis Demonstrates Extracts with a Similar Chemical Profile to Native Elderberries

With PLT elderberry extracts, you can be assured that your customers are getting the best quality on the market today.

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