Move over blueberries; black elderberry are richer in some important antioxidants

When it comes to our health, antioxidants are nature’s good guys. And when we’re concerned about our immune health, the black elderberry is a real hero. Now adults and children can harness the antioxidant power of black elderberries with the unique Sambucol black elderberry extract.

Common in England and northern Europe, the European Black Elder (Sambucus nigra ) – a shrubby tree with musk-scented wood and leaves, creamy white early summer flowers and wine-colored berries – has been named the “country medicine chest” for its variety of health uses. From ancient times, juice from its berries has been used in traditional remedies for colds, coughs and upper respiratory infections.

In a study published in The Journal of International Medical Research (2004), Sambucol Black Elderberry Extract was shown to reduce severity and shorten the duration of flu types A and B by up to four days. Sixty patients (29 females/31 males) ages 18 to 54 years with verified influenza were enrolled in the double-blind, placebo-controlled study. On average, patients taking Sambucol recovered in 3.1 days compared to 7.1 days for those given placebo. Symptoms were also made less severe with no significant side effects reported.

One of these fruits is richer than all others
Many plants contain a powerful type of antioxidant called flavonoids, which help to protect our cells from the potential damage caused by free radicals. Fruits with dark blue and deep purple pigments – such as the black elderberry – contain flavonoids called anthocyanins, which have a remarkable ability to stimulate the body’s immune system.

The presence of these anthocyanins gives black elderberries twice the natural antioxidant capacity of blueberries and significantly more than cranberries. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, black elderberries have more twice the concentration of anthocyanins than is found in any other fruit.

Since it was first developed in 1991, Sambucol Black Elderberry Syrup has been trusted by loyal users throughout the world as a great tasting and easy way to get a daily dose of these antioxidants. For additional information visit www.pharmacareus.com and www.sambucolusa.com.