As the seasons change, so do our vulnerabilities to colds and coughs. The sniffles, sore throat, and general malaise that accompany these common ailments can be disruptive, but nature offers a range of remedies that can help support the immune system and alleviate symptoms. Among these, Sambucus nigra (black elderberry), Echinacea purpurea, and zinc stand out as powerful allies in immune system function. Let's explore how these three natural ingredients work together to support your immune system and provide relief from cold and cough symptoms.
Sambucus nigra (Black Elderberry): A Berry with Powerful Properties
Black elderberry has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its immune-supporting properties. The berries of Sambucus nigra are rich in flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins, which give them their deep purple colour and potent antioxidant effects. These compounds have been shown to inhibit the replication of common cold and flu viruses, thereby reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.
Research suggests that black elderberry:
Is traditionally used in Herbal Medicine to promote sweating (diaphoretic) to help relieve fever (in cases of common colds, flus). 1 It has also been shown to help relieve symptoms of colds and flus (such as coughs, sore throat and mucus buildup of the (upper respiratory tract) . Black elderberry is a source of antioxidants and supports health and wellbeing at all ages of life.2
Echinacea purpurea: The Immune System Supporter
Echinacea purpurea, a flowering plant native to North America, is traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to reduce symptoms of common cold and to relieve symptoms of mild upper respiratory tract infection. It is prized for its ability to modulate the immune system, potently lower the risk of recurrent respiratory infections and complications thereof.
Research suggests that Echinacea:
The most consistently positive results are obtained from preparations containing E. purpurea are for reducing symptoms and possibly the duration of infection, when used as soon as symptoms arise. Supportive evidence has also accumulated for the use of echinacea as a preventive approach. 1 A Cochrane review was published that had assessed the evidence available from 16 clinical trials (eight treatment and eight prevention) involving a total of 3396 subjects, and it concluded that some echinacea preparations may be better than placebo, with a majority of studies reporting favourable effects. 3
Zinc: The Essential Mineral for Immune Health
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system. It is involved in numerous aspects of cellular metabolism, including the function of immune cells, and acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from damage.
Zinc supports immune health by:
Boosting immune cell function: Zinc is vital for the proper function of T-cells and other immune cells, which are essential for fighting off infections.1
Supporting mucosal barriers: Zinc helps maintain the integrity of mucosal barriers in the respiratory tract, which are the first line of defence against pathogens entering the body.1
The Synergistic Effect: Why Combining These Remedies Works
While each of these natural remedies—Sambucus nigra, Echinacea purpurea, and zinc—can be effective on its own, combining them can offer enhanced benefits. Together, they provide a comprehensive approach to cold and cough relief by targeting different aspects of the immune response:
- Prevention and early intervention: Elderberry and zinc can help prevent the lurgies from taking hold and multiplying, while Echinacea can support the immune system’s response to early symptoms.
- Symptom relief: The anti-inflammatory properties of Echinacea and elderberry, combined with zinc’s role in maintaining mucosal barriers, help alleviate common cold symptoms like congestion, sore throat, and runny nose.
- Faster recovery: By reducing the severity and duration of symptoms, these remedies can help you recover more quickly and get back to feeling your best.
Incorporating These Remedies into Your Routine
To harness the benefits of Sambucus nigra, Echinacea purpurea, and zinc, consider incorporating them into your daily routine, especially during cold and flu season.Elderberry Immune is a great option in super fun mixed berry flavoured gummies that contain Sambucus nigra (black elderberry), Echinacea purpurea and zinc to support healthy immune system function.
Elderberry, Echinacea, and zinc are powerful tools to have in your medicine cabinet. By supporting your immune system and providing relief from cold and cough symptoms, these remedies can help you stay healthy and resilient through the colder months and beyond.
References
1. Spiteri, M. (2011). Herbal monographs including herbal medicinal products and food supplements.
2. Braun, L., & Cohen, M. (2015). Herbs and natural supplements, volume 2: An evidence-based guide (Vol. 2). Elsevier Health Sciences.
3. Basch, E., Ulbricht, C., Basch, S., Dalton, S., Ernst, E., Foppa, I., ... & Vora, M. (2005). An evidence-based systematic review of Echinacea (E. angustifolia DC, E. pallida, E. purpurea) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy, 5(2), 57-88.
