NOW Sambucus Zinc-C
Brand: NOW · Form: LOZENGE [E0174] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that NOW Sambucus Zinc-C combines zinc with a proprietary black elderberry extract. While black elderberry is traditionally used for immune support, the specific benefits of this combination product are not fully established by the data provided. You should know that the data on zinc is robust, but the product's overall efficacy depends on the full formulation [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of zinc as a critical mineral for immune cell function. It supports the development and activity of neutrophils and natural killer cells, which are key to your body's defense system [NIH ODS]. The black elderberry ingredient is believed to support the immune system, though specific mechanisms for this product are not detailed in the data provided.
Safety profile
Data not available for this specific product. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all dietary supplements in the database. However, no specific side effects with report counts are provided for NOW Sambucus Zinc-C [FDA data]. For the zinc component, high intakes can lead to nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and headaches [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
If you are considering this product, be aware that the data for the black elderberry component is not provided here. For the zinc component, the NIH ODS notes that the tolerable upper intake level for adults is 40 mg per day. Do not exceed this amount from all sources. We recommend you consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or take medications [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Lozenge(s) |
| Market Status | On Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide