Black Elderberry

Best

Plant extracts

Black Elderberry at a glance

  • High antioxidant content
  • Has soothing properties
  • Also called Sambucus nigra fruit extract

Black Elderberry description

Black elderberry is the common name for a plant taxonomically known as _Sambucus nigra_ that is native to North American and Europe. The fruit of this type of black elderberry has long been used in teas and other medical preparations to treat everything from colds and flus to stomach upsets. Applied topically, black elderberry has potent anti-aging properties, specifically thanks to its high antioxidant polyphenol content. These polyphenols also have strong anti-inflammatory properties, making black elderberry useful in skin care preparations designed for sensitive or reddened skin. The amount of black elderberry used in cosmetics is typically 0.1%, although lower amounts may be used if it’s part of an antioxidant blend. One interesting note: though black elderberries can be consumed safely when cooked (or otherwise processed), the raw berries are considered toxic.

Black Elderberry references

  • Pharmaceuticals, March 2024, pages 1-14
  • Food Chemistry, March 2023 and October 2022, ePublication
  • Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, March 2022, pages 4,202-4,220
  • Food Reviews International, July 2020, pages 1,237-1,265

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.