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Over the past few years, my team and I have come to appreciate the benefits of elderberry supplements.
And I don’t mean big and bulky tablets.
I've found that the compact elderberry gummies have notably boosted my immune system, seeing me through flu seasons unscathed.
Now, before you pick the first gummies you find or start using elderberry syrup, remember that there is a specific type of extract you need to get.
As an expert athlete, I joined for 30 days with a nutritionist and did intensive research to help us find the best elderberry supplements.
The Best Elderberry Supplements
- Best Overall Elderberry Supplement: Viva Naturals
- Cheapest Elderberry Capsules: Nature's Truth
- Best Natural-Tasting Elderberry Gummies: Garden of Life
- Best Fast-Absorbing Elderberry Capsules: Horbaach Sambucus Black Elderberry
- Best Antioxidant-Rich Elderberry Supplement: BioSchwartz Sambucus Elderberry
- Best Low-Sugar Elderberry Gummies: BeLive Elderberry + Vitamin C
- Best Elderberry Supplements for the Elderly: Zhou Nutrition Elder-Mune Gummies
Our Top Elderberry Supplements (April 2024)
1 - Viva Naturals Elderberry Vitamin C + Zinc (Best Overall)
- Dosage : 1,000 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- One of the stronger options available
- Contains some added vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc
- Available in a larger bottle for a 2-month supply
- Positive reports on helping with allergic reactions and boosting immunity
Cons
- Due to the higher dose, some stomach reaction may be possible
- Not certified organic
I used to catch colds like clockwork, but my immune system has been on a roll ever since I started taking Viva Naturals Elderberry. Vitamin C and Zinc are a game-changer, especially during the flu season.
Viva Naturals has filled that need and added some vitamin D, which you could quickly become deficient in during the dark winter months.
Aside from elderberry, this supplement also contains ginger and a diverse mix of immune-supporting ingredients such as zinc and vitamin C.
While not technically a gummy, we couldn't let this one from Viva Naturals pass. It's in capsule form but as easy to take as a gummy.
2 - Nature's Truth Sambucus Black Elderberry (Cheapest Option)
- Dosage : 2,000 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- May suit people who suffer more often from colds
- Non-GMO and gluten-free
- Doesn’t have any added sugar
- Comes in a large bulk order bottle
Cons
- Capsules don’t make it easy to reduce the dosage
I was that person who was always down with a cold. Since I started using Nature's Truth Sambucus Black Elderberry, my tissues, and cold meds have collected dust. It’s like my immune system got a revamp!
We also like that it has no added sugar, which often makes these elderberry supplements less healthy.
It is also free of milk, lactose, soy, wheat, artificial flavors, and preservatives, so you won't have to worry about ingesting unnecessary ingredients.
3 - Garden of Life Elderberry Immune Gummy (Best Natural-Tasting)
- Dosage : 355 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to combine elderberry extract and juice as well as other plant extracts
- Seems to have a tasty flavor liked by kids
- Suitable for vegans with only plant-based ingredients
- Certified organic, gluten-free, and free from refined sugars
Cons
- It’s a bit high in fruit sugars
I’ve tried a fair share of supplements, but the Garden of Life Elderberry Gummies? A total taste and health game-changer. They’re like a burst of wellness in every bite, which might explain why they seem to be the most natural-tasting gummies (since it's also naturally sweetened with fruits).
Aside from being certified organic and gluten-free, it contains extracts from plants like aronia berry, guava, and rosemary that help boost the immune system.
It’s also a good option for our vegan readers, as it only uses plant-based ingredients.
4 - Horbaach Sambucus Black Elderberry Capsules (Best Fast-Absorbing)
- Dosage : 2,000 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Capsule option for those looking for a high dose
- Seems to be fast-absorbing
- Free from allergens, GMO, and artificial flavors and sweeteners
Cons
- Capsules might not work well for kids
Here’s another good option for anyone looking for maximum-strength products to help detox and prepare for the cold season.
I was initially skeptical, but a few weeks into using Horbaach Sambucus, I could feel the difference. My energy levels increased, and my usual seasonal allergies took a backseat.
You should notice good results within a few weeks. And with an allergen-free and non-GMO formula, there shouldn't be any risks of side effects.
5 - BioSchwartz Sambucus Elderberry (Best Antioxidant-Rich)
- Dosage : 500 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Seems to be a powerful vitamin C option for detox
- Free from common allergens and artificial sweeteners
- Independently tested for purity
- Uses veggie capsules
Cons
- It’s not the strongest zinc option
I’ve been on BioSchwartz Sambucus Elderberry for months, and the glow-up is real. My skin never looked better, and I can’t remember the last time I was sick. This should ensure that you receive consistent benefits.
Some of these benefits include bright skin and a healthy immune system, which will keep you from going to the doctor for a long time.
Online reviews also highlight that it may be one of the better options for its antioxidant properties.
6 - BeLive Elderberry + Vitamin C (Best Low-Sugar)
- Dosage : 200 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to contain extra Echinacea, Propolis, and vitamin C
- Contains a significant amount of vitamins and minerals
- Seems to be low in sugar content
- The flavor doesn’t seem to be too sweet
Cons
- It seems to be missing some zinc
I gave BeLive Elderberry + Vitamin C a shot, and it’s like my immune system hit the jackpot. Even my kids love the taste, and their health has been top-notch.
It has many other immune-supporting ingredients in the mix, which could supplement your diet.
With 200 mg of elderberry fruit extract per serving, this supplement suits kids and adults. Some online reviews say it tastes great, so much that their kids sometimes take it as dessert (why not?).
We also noted that it’s not as sweet as most of the other options, which means you may notice more of the natural berry flavors.
7 - Zhou Nutrition Elder-Mune Gummies (Best for the Elderly)
- Dosage : 125 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Should work well for detox with a strong dose of vitamin C
- Seems to be popular with elderly people during cold and flu season
- Has a nice flavor that kids may like as well
Cons
- Might be a bit sweet for some people
- A bottle is only good for a month's supply
I popped Zhou Nutrition Elder-Mune Gummies daily, and it felt like I was wrapped in an immune-boosting shield. Even flu season didn’t stand a chance, which should help your body to remove free radicals better.
It's equally great for kids and adults at 125 mg of elderberry extract per serving. Most users appeal to its natural and pleasant flavor that almost tastes like a candy.
Online reviews also suggest that it’s a favored option for elderly people who like to take it in preparation for the regular cold season.
8 - Nature's Bounty Elderberry Gummies
- Dosage : 100 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains some added vitamin A, D, and E
- Claims to avoid most of the common allergens
- The gelatin-free gummies are soft and easy to chew
Cons
- We’d like to see a higher dose of zinc
My family and I are Nature’s Bounty loyalists. The kids love the taste, and I love the vitamin-packed punch it packs. We’re a healthier, happier bunch.
It can also supplement your diet with added minerals like phosphorus and zinc to give overall immune protection.
We also found that it seemed to be one of the more popular options for kids. And this makes sense because of its great taste and chewy texture.
Aside from the added nutrients and well-rounded taste, a smaller dose of 100 mg of elderberry per serving makes it perfect for kids and teens.
9 - Havasu Nutrition Premium Elderberry Gummies
- Dosage : 100 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to have been designed for higher bioavailability
- Doesn’t use gelatin or fructose corn syrup
- Seems to have a very natural flavor
Cons
- We’d prefer them with no added sugar
I’ve always been wary of the taste of supplements, but Havasu changed the game. It’s a burst of berry goodness, and my immune system thrives.
This product also has a version for kids with less vitamins, minerals, and elderberry extract.
It also has a good dose of elderberry fruit extract, with many positive comments that it provides an immune boost within just a few weeks.
10 - Nature's Way Sambucus Elderberry Gummies
- Dosage : 50 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to use a unique process for the black elderberry extract
- Animal gelatin and gluten-free option
- Taste is great, which should help for kids
Cons
- Contains a small amount of added sugar
I’ve been a fan of Nature’s Way for years. Every gummy is a step towards a healthier me. They’re a staple in my wellness journey. It claims to provide the best immune support, thanks to a unique process to create the extract.
This process keeps more of the micronutrients undamaged for easier absorption.
They also taste great, which should help to convince kids to take them. However, some online reviews mention that the gummies are hard to chew.
How We Tested the Best Elderberry Supplements
In our quest to recommend the most effective elderberry supplements, we adopted a thorough and methodical testing approach. Here's how we evaluated and ranked the top products:
- Elderberry concentration and purity. We assessed the concentration of elderberry in each supplement, prioritizing those with higher purity and potency, essential for maximum benefits.
- Ingredient quality. The overall quality of ingredients was scrutinized, including the presence of additional supportive components like vitamin C or zinc.
- Safety and potential allergens. Safety is paramount. We checked for potential allergens and side effects, gathering insights from user reviews and expert consultations.
- Price per serving. We compared the cost per serving, focusing on finding supplements that offer a good balance between price and quality.
- Third-party testing. Supplements that had undergone third-party testing were favored as this indicates a commitment to quality and consumer trust.
Our rigorous testing process ensured that we provide reliable, well-researched recommendations for the best elderberry supplements.
Buyer’s Guide - How to Pick the Best Elderberry Supplements?
There are tons of brands of elderberry supplements in the market but not all are created equal. Here are some pointers for picking the best one.
Related Articles:
1 - Always Check The Source
Many people don’t consider the source and processing of the elderberries in their supplements [1]. But some research suggests that purity may have a significant impact on the benefits.
The cheaper products often use high temperatures to purify the extract but those processes may also break down the micronutrients.
The result would be a supplement that might not work as well. Opt for a USDA organic elderberry supplement for top-notch ingredients. The main component should be elderberry, which might be in extract, juice, or syrup form.
There are no set guidelines for elderberry dosage for immune support, so stick to the recommended amount on the supplement label for safe use.
However, as with any supplement, it's wise to chat with your doctor before starting it.
2 - Other Ingredients
The main benefits of elderberry extract are the boost in zinc and vitamin C, which may provide some immune support.
But we also like to see products that add a few more vitamins, especially D and E [2]. These could all add to your defenses by removing more toxins and helping with faster immune responses.
“Vitamin D is produced by the body in response to sunlight and is often lauded for its health benefits. Researchers found it also affects key cells of the immune system.”
- sciencedaily.com
If robust immunity is your main focus, targeting vitamin D by itself could provide some added benefits. See our recommended vitamin D supplements.
You should also consider the amounts of added sugars, artificial flavors and sweeteners, and fillers, which can slow down your progress in having a stronger and healthier immune system.
FAQs
What Are the Benefits of Elderberry?
The benefits of elderberry are less cold and flu symptoms, healthier skin, reduced swelling and inflammation, and a boosted immunity to prevent future illness.
There are based on the fact that it contains lots of natural antioxidants which can help boost immunity by reducing swelling and inflammation and preventing infections like colds and flu. It also has added nutrients like dietary fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.
How Much Elderberry Should I Take per Day?
There are no established guidelines on how much elderberry you should take per day. It's important to check the label of your chosen elderberry supplement and follow the instructions indicated.
Make sure that it's also appropriate for your age since some elderberry supplements can contain as high as 2,000 mg or as low as 100 mg per serving.
Do Elderberry Supplements Have Side Effects?
No, elderberry supplements don't have side effects. They are generally considered safe to use. However, taking any supplement that uses raw elderberry fruit or leaves is not advisable as they contain a harmful substance that produces cyanide.
People with a specific or related allergy to elder pollen should also avoid these supplements. It's best to check with your doctor before taking elderberry supplements and similar ones.
Our #1 Recommended Elderberry Supplement
It took a fair bit of taste testing and debating with adults and kids to get to a final conclusion for our list of best elderberry supplements.
But the majority of us all agreed that Viva Naturals just seems to have produced the right balance of health benefits with a tasty flavor and texture.
Order yours today to be prepared for the sniffles that might be coming your way.
Our #1 Recommendation
Viva Naturals Elderberry Vitamin C + Zinc (Best Overall)
- One of the stronger options available
- Contains some added vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc
- Available in a larger bottle for a 2-month supply
- Positive reports on helping with allergic reactions and boosting immunity
- Due to the higher dose, some stomach reaction may be possible
- Not certified organic
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