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SupplementScience

Elderberry Dosage Guide

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

General Dosage

600-900mg standardized extract daily during acute illness; 300-600mg for prevention

Maximum dose: No established upper limit; clinical trials have used up to 1200mg/day without adverse effects

Dosage Recommendations

General recommendation: 600-900mg standardized extract daily during acute illness; 300-600mg for prevention

Timing: At the first sign of illness for maximum benefit; divide doses throughout the day

Dosage by Condition

ConditionRecommended DoseEvidence
Acute cold/flu treatment600-900mg extract daily for 3-5 daysModerate
Daily immune prevention300-600mg extract dailyEmerging
Elderberry syrup (children)5-10mL (1-2 tsp) dailyEmerging

Upper limit: No established upper limit; clinical trials have used up to 1200mg/day without adverse effects

Timing & Absorption

At the first sign of illness for maximum benefit; divide doses throughout the day

Can be taken with or without food.

References

  1. (). Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. DOI
  2. (). Elderberry supplementation reduces cold duration and symptoms in air-travellers: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Nutrients. DOI