- A standardized, potent elderberry extract with additional vitamin C to support immune function in children.
- Designed to gently but effectively support immune function in children and adolescents.
- Contains a highly potent extract of Sambucus nigra, processed without the use of solvents such as methanol or ethanol and standardized for anthocyanin and polyphenol content
-Elderberry has been shown to reduce the duration of symptoms during viral infections and upper respiratory infections, likely through the antiviral actions of its anthocyanins and the immune-supporting actions of its polysaccharides.
- Additional vitamin C is included to support phagocytic cells such as neutrophils, B cell and T cell differentiation, and increased inflammatory and metabolic demands during active infections
Childhood is an essential stage in the development of the immune system because the body is first exposed to the many viruses, bacteria and other microbes in our environment. This initial and subsequent exposure is inevitable and very important for the development of the immune system. However, steps can be taken to help ensure that immune tissues are robust enough to adequately respond and minimize symptoms in the affected child.
Sambucus nigra, more commonly known as elderberry, is traditionally used to support the immune system and fight upper respiratory infections (URTIs) in adults and children. Today, there are numerous human clinical trials to confirm the effectiveness of elderberry for this purpose. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that elderberry syrup was able to significantly reduce the duration of fever and illness in people aged 5 to 56 years with URTI. Another study tested the effects of elderberry on healthy people with confirmed influenza A or B when intervention began within 48 hours of symptom onset. This trial showed that elderberry supplementation led to less medication use and faster resolution of symptoms such as nasal congestion, pain, cough and sleep disturbances compared to a placebo.
Elderberry positively affects the immune system and inhibits the proliferation of several strains of the influenza virus through multiple mechanisms of action. First, the anthocyanins found in elderberry extracts are able to bind directly to viruses and block their receptors, while also binding to neuraminidase, a key enzyme involved in virus spread. Second, elderberry polyphenols have been shown to increase microbial diversity through a prebiotic effect, specifically elevating levels of the beneficial bacteria Akkermansia muciniphila. Finally, the polysaccharide compounds in elderberry extract have been shown to stimulate the immune system.
When it comes to nutritional support of the immune system, vitamin C makes a strong case for being one of the most important compounds. Although ascorbic acid is necessary for connective tissue formation, cardiovascular health, and even neurotransmitter production, it has been shown to support multiple immune functions. For example, vitamin C is stored in neutrophils and can enhance phagocytic action. It also enhances B cell and T cell differentiation through gene regulation. During active infections, vitamin C levels in the body drop due to increased inflammation and metabolic needs. Overall, vitamin C deficiency has been shown to impair immune function and make individuals more susceptible to infections, so it's not surprising that vitamin C supplementation can help both prevent and treat respiratory infections. Despite its importance for optimal immunity, the human body cannot synthesize vitamin C and dietary sources are required to maintain adequate levels.
C Matrix Kids + Elderberry Chewable provides 250 mg of vitamin C and 25 mg of European black elderberry extract in a child-friendly chewable format with a blueberry flavor. Elderberry comes in a proprietary and well-researched form known as Eldercraft®. Eldercraft® is processed without the use of solvents such as methanol or ethanol and is standardized for anthocyanin and polyphenol content.
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