Elderberry Tincture

Label: Beneficial Botanicals Botanical Name: Sambucus nigra (black elderberry) Other Names: Elder, S. Nigra (European), S. Melanocarpa or spp. cerulea (North American) Parts Used: berries Organic: Yes Tincture Ratio: 1:1 Origin: USA

Known Uses:
virus prevention
autoimmune disorders

[tab name="Overview"]
Antiviral / Anti-inflammatory / Antirheumatic / Antioxidant / Diuretic

Laboratory trials during 2005 at a research institute in London resulted in findings that Black Elderberry is 99% effect against the Avian Flu (H5N1) virus. During the flu epidemic in Panama in 1995, Elderberry juice was used to treat people with the flu virus. At the Bundesforschungsanstalt research center in Karlsruhe, Germany, scientists conducting studies on Elderberry showed that elderberry anthocyanins enhanced immune function by boosting the production of cytokines. These unique proteins act as messengers in the immune system to help regulate immune response, thus helping to defend the body against disease. Further research indicated that anthocyanins found in Elderberries possess appreciably more antioxidant capacity than either vitamin E or vitamin C. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Elderberry may decrease swelling in mucous membranes, such as the sinuses, and relieve nasal congestion.

How It Works As An Antiviral
The proteins actually prevent the virus from invading the cell. The influenza virus invades cells by puncturing the cell wall with the tiny spikes of hemaGglutinin that cover its surface. The active ingredient in the elderberry disarms these the spikes, binds to them, thus stopping them from piercing the cell membrane. Evidence also showed that elderberry proteins fight the influenza virus in another way, too. The viral spikes are covered with the enzyme, neuraminidase, which helps break down the healthy cell wall. The elderberry inhibits the action of the enzyme. -- Dr. Madeleine Mumcuoglu (world-renowned Israeli virologist)

Constituents-Chemicals & Nutrients
The fruit contains flavonoids, including rutin, quercitrin and kaempferol etc., phenolic acids, e.g. chlorogenic acid, pectin, and sugars. The leaves contain triterpenes similar to those found in the flowers. Cyanogenetic glycosides, and sambunigrin and flavonoids including rutin and quercitin, fatty acids, alkanes, tannins. The bark contains phytohaemagglutinins.

[tab name="Use / Dosage"]
Elderberry concentrated juices or highest concentrated tincture form has proven to have strong antiviral effects since the berries contain proteins that prevent viruses from entering cells. It is recommended as a daily tonic throughout the cold and flu season. Used as a tonic for arthritis and rheumatism.

Known Dosage (for Adults)
1 Tablespoon tincture every 3 hours for 4-5 days for prevention from exposure to and onset of the flu

Note: Do not let up on the dosage as the Elderberry must stay consistently in the body for it to do its job boosting the production of cytokines.

[tab name="Precautions"]
As with any diuretic that will flush the system, taking Elderberry for a lengthy period of time can lead to dehydration and electrolyte depletion if you are not drinking enough water. Do not take this tincture while taking a laxative. Elderberry may decrease blood sugar and increase the risk of developing low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you are taking medications such as insulin or metformin to regulate blood sugar, you may need to monitor your blood sugar more closely when taking this tincture. If you are taking immune system suppressants such as corticosteroids to treat autoimmune diseases, you should not take Elderberry.

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This information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare provider. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of this extract is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare provider before taking this tincture.