American Elderberry for Brain Health

Here are River Hills Harvest, we have been farming American elderberries for over 25 years. Our nutrient-dense American Elderberry Juice was one of our first products and remains the top choice for daily health among our customers. We have seen a significant increase in American elderberry farms across the USA lately. Many more elderberries are now being grown in backyards and on homesteads. However, despite this growth, imported elderberries still dominate consumption in the USA.

We exclusively grow and use American elderberries, or Sambucus nigra spp. canadensis. Learn about the key differences and why we believe American elderberries are superior HERE. Most products you find on store shelves are made with imported elderberries, and much of the medical research has also focused on these. Although many of the benefits of all elderberries are similar, we want to ensure you are informed about the specific research on our American elderberries. This way, you can make better decisions regarding your health.

The Link Between Elderberries and Brain Health

Today, we’ll discuss brain health, particularly cognitive impairment. Elderberries, along with foods rich in anthocyanins and antioxidants, may help lower the risk of memory loss and slow cognitive decline. These characteristics apply to all elderberries. However, our American Elderberry Juice has been featured in two brain health studies related to cognitive impairment, thanks to its simple ingredients and nutrient-dense profile.

American Elderberry Juice

Our Juice Shows Promise in Cognitive Health Studies

Our juice has recently been included in a brain health study that has resulted in two articles for you to read. That’s correct, OUR elderberry juice was used in these studies! The research focused on how high-anthocyanin foods, which are rich in antioxidants and possess anti-inflammatory properties, may enhance brain function in patients with mild cognitive impairment. Our American Elderberry Juice is a nutrient-dense option suitable for these studies.

During the trials, patients with mild cognitive impairment took our American elderberry juice three times daily. They were closely monitored over the duration of the studies. The first trial assessed the potential effects of our juice on inflammatory and cognitive markers. The results showed enough promise to warrant further investigation. The second study outlined how improvements were measured. The addition of elderberry juice was observed to alleviate some symptoms. You can read the studies here:

• Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of American Elderberry Juice for Improving Cognition and Inflammation in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment. Click HERE to read.

  
  

• Preliminary Effects of American Elderberry Juice on Cognitive Functioning in Mild Cognitive Impairment Patients: A Secondary Analysis of Cognitive Composite Scores in a Randomized Clinical Trial. Click HERE to read.

  
  

First and foremost, we feel honored that our product is featured in such impactful studies. We aim to help our consumers recognize the value of premium American elderberry juice compared to similar products in the market. Although these trials are relatively small and much more research is needed, it is a good beginning! This momentum is possible due to the passion held by us and other elderberry farmers across the USA. We are proud to play a role in this journey and are excited to witness the ongoing results from our American Elderberry Juice.

Why Our American Elderberry Juice Stands Out

Now, why is our American Elderberry Juice chosen by scientists and researchers for these studies? What makes it different from other products on the market?

• Fresh Processing: Our elderberries are cleaned and then frozen. Once thawed, they are gently squeezed to produce our juice. Most elderberry syrups, tonics, or nectars are made by adding water to dehydrated elderberries, which results in a different taste and different nutrient content.

  
  

• Native Variety: We use only American black elderberries, or Sambucus canadensis (native to North America). This species can be processed using low heat, which helps retain additional antioxidants. Conversely, most elderberry products use imported Sambucus nigra elderberries, which must be boiled before use.

  
  

• Trusted Process: Our juice-making process has been trusted by customers for over 20 years. People often remark on the quality. Our American Elderberry Juice contains zero added water or sugar.

  
  

• Nutrient Density: Our American Elderberry Juice is nutrient-dense and lacks harmful additives, making it an excellent candidate for health research. There are only a few other elderberry farmers in the USA offering pure elderberry juice. The only ingredient we add is citric acid to ensure shelf stability.

  
  

• Distinct Character: You might wonder why you don’t see elderberry juice made from importedSambucus nigra elderberries on store shelves.* The answer lies in the additional antioxidants found in our Sambucus canadensis berries. These antioxidants help our juice maintain a vibrant color and a pleasant taste, which many imported elderberries lack.

  
  

• Absence of Concentrates: Unlike imported elderberry products, you won't find an American elderberry concentrate in stores. Concentrates have undergone high-heat processing. Since we don’t need to cook our American elderberries, we avoid high heat to preserve valuable nutrients. Our goal is to provide a consistent, high-quality product rich in nutrients.

  
  

Given the abundance of antioxidants, anthocyanins, dietary fiber, and vitamins, elderberries are an excellent addition to a healthy lifestyle. Knowing more about their potential benefits, especially for brain health, makes them even more appealing. Visit our Health page to learn how elderberries may positively impact our immune systems, inflammation, gut health, and beyond. For creative ways to consume our American Elderberry Juice, check out our Recipes page!

We hope that after reading this, you recognize the unique advantages of our American Elderberry Juice compared to other products available. We encourage you to support American farmers and businesses by choosing products made with American elderberries, even if they aren't ours.

Until next time, cheers to your health!

I am Heather Wilson from the River Hills Harvest crew. Being a part of the company gives me access to American elderberries in various forms. I enjoy experimenting with ways to incorporate them into my diet, alongside other natural plants and fruits. With a background in greenhouse management and floral design, I also engage with the art community as an artist when time allows. In my spare time, I love playing guitar and writing songs, wandering nature without a particular purpose, allowing real purpose to reveal itself. It’s a busy life, but one I love and feel fortunate to experience.