Elderberry has been used over the centuries as both food and medicine. Historical records dating back to the time of Ancient Egypt have uncovered recipes of Elderberry-based formulations. Hippocrates, “father of medicine” of ancient Greece, himself considered the Elderberry plant as his “medicine chest” due to its wide range of health benefits. Traditionally used to help prevent colds, fever and flu, Elderberry juice and infusions were folk medicine's prescription for helping treat burns, cuts, toothaches and back pain.

The Elderberry is a large flowering deciduous bush growing up to 30 feet tall which is native to Europe and North America. Elderberry produces sweet-scented, white, flat-topped flowers in umbrella-shaped clusters. When unripe these berries are green and toxic, but ripened they transform into deep purple drooping clusters. Both the flowers and ripe fruits of the Elderberry can be used in nutraceutical applications.

Nutrients and Benefits

Elderberry contains a wide range of phenolic compounds which include anthocyanins and the flavonols quercetin and kaempferol, all present in impressive amounts. Anthocyanins are known to have more antioxidant capacity than either vitamin C or E.

A comparative vitamin and mineral analysis of dark berries done by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2005 showed that Elderberry has very high vitamin A, C and B6 content and the highest content values for the minerals iron and phosphorus. Elderberry also contains vitamin B1, B2, B3, folic acid, biotin and vitamin E.2 In addition, Elderberry is rich in sterols, carotenoids, tannins, amino acids, beta-carotene, potassium and calcium.
Elderberry's remarkable antioxidant, vitamin and mineral profile may provide significant health benefits including:

• Enhancing immune function and aiding against free radical damage.
• Maintaining healthy cholesterol, insulin and glucose levels and improving heart health.
• Promoting respiratory health. Enhancing healthy cell function.
• Promoting healthy skin.

Available as Freeze Dried and Spay dried.

Contact trevor@nutraingredients.co.uk for further information or pricing.