Cymbiotika unveils vegan elderberry supplement for immunity

18 Nov 2020 --- US-based Cymbiotika has added a new immune-support formulation to its line up of dietary supplements. Liposomal Elderberry Defense has a patented Liposomal/Micelle delivery system that ensures maximum absorption by radically increasing the bioavailability of its nutrients.

Sourced and tested in the US, the supplement boasts zero synthetic ingredients and is touted as being vegan, gluten-free, keto-suitable and containing no sugar.

“This is the first elderberry product using our patented delivery system called Micelle/Liposomal technology,” notes Shahab Elmi, Cymbiotika CEO.

“With this technology, we place these powerful immune-enhancing nutrients inside of micelles encased in liposomes, tiny bubbles built from phospholipids (fats), that mimic the body’s cell membranes. Liposomes are designed to pass through all stages of digestion so that nutrients stay intact and are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream,” he adds.

Antiviral effects of elderberry
Elderberry is a potent antiviral that blocks the flu virus from entering the cells and inhibits the early stages of infection, the company says.

Elderberry is a potent antiviral that blocks the flu virus from entering the cells and inhibits the early stages of infection, the company says. 

It also is packed full of vitamins and minerals that support the immune system through proper nutrition. Combined with zinc, copper, echinacea and selenium, the hypertonic stimulates the immune system and supports overall wellness year-round.

Elderberries also contain antioxidants called flavonols and anthocyanins, which fight free radicals in the body and lower oxidative stress. Antioxidants reduce inflammation that can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease and even cancers. 

Other health benefits of elderberry include naturally improving colds, sinus issues, nerve pain, inflammation, allergies, chronic fatigue and constipation, says Cymbiotika.

“Our unique formula has 850 mg of elderberry extract from freeze-dried organic elderberry juice, not from concentrates like most products on the market,” says Chervin Jafarieh, Cymbiotika founder. 

“We also added a powerful immune-stimulating herb, echinacea, along with sodium ascorbate, an alkaline form of vitamin C. Each of these ingredients is in the most bioavailable form and have been selected to support the immune system and ward of pathogens, bacteria, and viruses,” he details.

Each 16 oz bottle retails for US$48 and is available for purchase through the brand’s website. Consumers can take it directly from the pouch or add to water, smoothies, coffee and tea.

Last month, Cymbiotika also launched a high-dose magnesium l-threonate supplement in liquid format, which is touted for increased bioavailability. The launch addresses widespread magnesium deficiency. 

Botanicals for immunity
Consumer demand for immune-strengthening products is driving NPD throughout the food and nutrition industries, particularly amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Innovations from protein supplements to herbal teas are being sold as aids against flu and viruses.

Immunity claims on product packaging rose by average of 15 percent per year between 2015 and 2019, according to Innova Market Insights. 

Europe had a 41 percent market share of global F&B launches, including supplements, tracked with immune health claims in 2019, up from 34 percent in 2015. Market share increases were also seen in the Middle East and Africa, as well as Australasia. 

NPD with immunity claims have had a 15 percent CAGR worldwide between 2015 and 2019, the market researcher says.

Within this space, botanicals are proliferating in formulations. NutritionInsight recently reported on how consumers are looking to botanicals for natural wellness relief from conditions associated with the pandemic’s impact. 

Israel-based supplements manufacturer Anlit added three nutraceuticals to its VitaBites immune health product portfolio. Long Life Probiotic (LLP) Immune Probiotics, Zinc and Elderberry bites arrived as all-natural, immunity-support gummies shaped as cubes and bears.

Spain-based Nektium expanded its portfolio of standardized botanical ingredients with the launch of a new Echinacea angustifolia ingredient, touted as able to support the immune system and strengthen the body’s resistance to bacterial and viral diseases. The company notes that echinacea has been historically employed for such uses and is backed by scientific evidence. 

By Kristiana Lalou