PhytoCide Elderberry OS

The super fruit trend is one of the largest growing segments in the cos­metics industry. These fruits are recognized not only for their health benefits, but also for their unique marketing appeal. Elderberry cer­tainly fits the description of a super fruit. Several species of Sambucus produce this type of berry. Two common varieties of Sambucus are the American elder (S. Canadensis) and the European elder (S. nigra), which has also been naturalized to the Americas. These two are often discussed simultaneously in the literature given that they have sev­eral components in common and therefore provide similar benefits.

Elderberries have traditionally been used for making wine, syrup, and confectionaries. The flowers and berries of these plants have been used most often for medicinal purposes. Elderberries are rich in a variety of phytonutrients that exhibit both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, such as caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, and quercetin. The fruit also contains anthocya­nins, which have been shown to help boost the immune system. Antioxidants, like those found in elderberries, are excellent additions to skin care regimens as they provide protection from free radicals that contribute to cell damage, aging, and wrinkle formation. Bio­flavonoids, which can also be found in elderberries, exhibit astrin­gent properties that help tighten the skin and provide additional anti-wrinkle benefits. This unique super fruit is also an excellent source of undecylenic acid, an organic fatty acid that provides broad anti­microbial benefits, but is especially effective against fungal microorganisms.