Working closely with Iprona as well as other leading producers, JC Dudley has built a strong supply relationship with leading processors to deliver high-quality industrial fruit juices, juice concentrates, pulps and purees sourced from many countries around the world.
Elderberries, in particular, are in the spotlight at the moment for having powerful antiviral properties. Through our strong working relationship with Iprona, JC Dudley can offer a stable, consistent and sustainable supply of elderberry-based food products for your food or drink range.
So why exactly are elderberries the healthy choice right now? Let's take a closer look.
Everything You Should Know About Elderberries
Elderberries are an ancient fruit that has been used for hundreds of years as a natural remedy used by apothecaries and healers to help fight off common viral infections, such as colds and flu. Research has since shown the berries to be naturally high in vitamins A, C and E and have high levels of potassium; all valuable for preventing or treating the symptoms of viral illnesses.
The small, deep purple berries grow on the Sambucus tree and have been harvested for centuries by healers and herbalists to help treat the sick and reduce the symptoms of common viruses. Modern researchers, the GMI Research Group, believe that the antiviral properties found in elderberries are effective against influenza A and B and the common cold.
Antiviral and antimicrobial properties
It is believed that using broad-based antiviral treatments, such as elderberry extract supplementation, can prevent key viral proteins from entering host cells.
As well as having an antiviral effect, elderberry extract is antimicrobial, meaning that it can also help to combat bacterial infections such as pneumonia, which can often develop following a severe bout of flu.
With more than 20 million doctor appointments per year being booked for patients suffering from colds and flu, researchers believe that by using elderberry extract the duration of the virus can be shortened, meaning that less working and school days will be missed.
Immune-boosting benefits of elderberries
Consuming elderberry juice can also help to boost your natural immunity. Drinking the juice helps the body to produce cytokines. Cytokine is a protein that regulates our immune system and our inflammatory response to infections.
According to a research study, the immune-boosting properties found in elderberries were effective against 10 different strains of the influenza virus. The antimicrobial effect of elderberry extract is down to its high content of anthocyanin, which is a type of flavonoid that contains both antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
Owing to the potent antiviral and antimicrobial properties of elderberries, it is no wonder that ancient healers and apothecaries realised the powerful nature of the berries to help treat and ease the symptoms of both influenza and bacterial infections in the people in their community.
A common, yet very effective concoction used for generations is elderberry syrup, which is high in bioactive phenolic compounds that act to strengthen the antioxidant status in healthy people, making them more resilient against viruses.
The anthocyanins found in elderberries have also been shown to inhibit inflammatory biomarkers to build resistance against both bacterial and viral infections. Using natural elderberry juice and extracts can be an effective natural alternative to using antibiotics, which have a strong potential for over-use during the cold and flu seasons.
Sourcing elderberries
Consuming raw elderberries or the bark or leaves of the Sambucus plant isn't recommended as it can cause negative gastrointestinal effects. It is best to avoid consuming raw elderberries, but instead, use prepared sources from a reputable fruit juice concentrate supplier such as JC Dudley.
Do not hesitate to contact our friendly team at JC Dudley for your elderberry juice and extract needs.