Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Viburnum berry (Viburnum opulus) contains high concentrations of phenolic compounds including chlorogenic acid, anthocyanins, and procyanidins that demonstrate potent antioxidant activity equivalent to 0.77 g Trolox/g ORAC. These bioactive compounds reduce oxidative stress by 15-20% and inhibit glucose uptake in intestinal cells with an IC50 of 50 μg/mL.
CategoryFruit
GroupBerry
Evidence LevelModerate
Primary Keywordviburnum berry benefits
Synergy Pairings4
Viburnum Berry — botanical close-up
Health Benefits
**Supports cardiovascular health**
by enhancing circulation and protecting vascular integrity with antioxidants.
**Fortifies immune resilience**
through its high vitamin C and anthocyanin content.
**Promotes muscle relaxation**
and eases tension, attributed to its antispasmodic properties.
**Supports respiratory function**
by soothing airways and reducing inflammation.
**Enhances joint flexibility**
and comfort by modulating inflammatory responses.
**Contributes to digestive**
balance and regularity with its dietary fiber content.
**Protects against oxidative**
stress and supports cellular longevity with a rich profile of polyphenols.
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Viburnum Berry, typically referring to species like *Viburnum opulus* (Guelder Rose), is a fruit found across Europe, Asia, and North America. These vibrant berries are recognized for their rich content of flavonoids, anthocyanins, and vitamin C. They are valued in functional nutrition for their potential to support cardiovascular health, immune resilience, and muscle relaxation.
“In European and Native American traditional medicine, Viburnum Berry has been historically brewed into teas and syrups to support circulation, muscle relaxation, respiratory health, and immunity. It was specifically valued for menstrual relief, cardiovascular strength, and promoting seasonal wellness. These applications highlight its long-standing use as a versatile botanical remedy.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Scientific studies, including in vitro and animal models, demonstrate Viburnum Berry's significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. Research highlights its potential for cardiovascular support, immune modulation, and muscle relaxation, attributed to its rich content of flavonoids, anthocyanins, and salicylates. Further clinical research is needed to confirm these benefits in human populations.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
Common forms
Dried berries for teas or syrups, or concentrated extract.
Dosage (Dried Berries)
5–10 grams daily, typically infused into tea or syrup.
Dosage (Extract)
500–1000 mg daily of extract form
Timing
Consumed daily for cardiovascular, immune, and muscle-supporting benefits.
Nutritional Profile
- Dietary Fiber: Supports digestive health and regularity.
- Vitamin C: Potent antioxidant, supports immune function.
- Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium: Essential minerals for electrolyte balance, muscle function, and bone health.
- Flavonoids and Anthocyanins: Powerful antioxidants, provide anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits.
- Salicylates: Compounds with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Coumarins: Bioactive compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and circulatory effects.
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Viburnum berry's phenolic compounds, particularly chlorogenic acid and cyanidin-3-glucoside, decrease glucose and free fatty acid uptake in Caco-2 intestinal cells while inhibiting lipid droplet accumulation. The procyanidins and flavonoids scavenge reactive oxygen species, reducing t-BOOH-induced oxidative damage by 15-20% and enhancing DNA repair efficiency by up to 40% against hydrogen peroxide. Additionally, these compounds inhibit key metabolic enzymes including α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and PTP-1B, contributing to antidiabetic effects.
Clinical Evidence
Current evidence for Viburnum berry is limited to preclinical in vitro studies with no published human clinical trials available. Laboratory studies using Caco-2 and HT29 cell lines demonstrate that phenolic extracts reduce oxidative stress markers by 15-20% and inhibit cancer cell proliferation at non-cytotoxic concentrations. The most significant finding shows glucose uptake inhibition with an IC50 value of 50 μg/mL for phenolic-rich juice fractions. While these preliminary results are promising, human clinical trials are essential to confirm therapeutic efficacy and establish appropriate dosing protocols.
Safety & Interactions
Safety data for Viburnum berry is extremely limited, with no reported studies on drug interactions, contraindications, or adverse effects in humans. Preclinical studies indicate no cytotoxicity to normal cells at therapeutically active doses (IC50 50 μg/mL), with extracts showing no toxicity up to tested concentrations. However, the absence of human safety data means potential interactions with medications, particularly those affecting glucose metabolism or blood clotting, cannot be ruled out. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data, and individuals on diabetes or cardiovascular medications should consult healthcare providers before use.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Polyphenol/antioxidant base
Cardio & Circulation | Gut & Microbiome
Also Known As
Viburnum opulusGuelder roseEuropean cranberry bushVOPCramp bark
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main active compounds in Viburnum berry?
Viburnum berry contains phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, gallic acid), flavonoids (quercetin, catechin, epicatechin, rutin), procyanidins (procyanidin B2), anthocyanins (cyanidin-3-glucoside), and iridoids. These compounds demonstrate antioxidant activity equivalent to 0.77 g Trolox/g ORAC and reduce cellular oxidative stress by 15-20%.
Is there clinical evidence supporting Viburnum berry benefits?
Currently, no human clinical trials have been published on Viburnum berry. All available evidence comes from preclinical in vitro studies using cell lines like Caco-2 and HT29. While these studies show promising antioxidant and metabolic effects, human trials are needed to confirm therapeutic benefits.
How does Viburnum berry affect blood sugar levels?
Laboratory studies show Viburnum berry phenolic compounds inhibit glucose and free fatty acid uptake in intestinal cells with an IC50 of 50 μg/mL. The extracts also inhibit key enzymes α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and PTP-1B involved in glucose metabolism. However, human studies are needed to confirm blood sugar effects.
What is the recommended dosage for Viburnum berry?
No established dosage recommendations exist for Viburnum berry due to the absence of human clinical trials. Preclinical studies used concentrations around 50 μg/mL for active effects, but this cannot be directly translated to human dosing. Healthcare provider consultation is essential before use.
Can Viburnum berry interact with medications?
Drug interaction data for Viburnum berry is not available from published studies. Given its effects on glucose metabolism and potential antioxidant properties, theoretical interactions with diabetes medications or blood thinners are possible. Individuals taking medications should consult healthcare providers before use.
Is Viburnum berry safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Viburnum berry has traditional use in supporting uterine health, but pregnant women should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing, as its antispasmodic properties may affect uterine tone. Limited clinical data exists on safety during breastfeeding, making medical guidance essential before use in these populations.
What is the difference between Viburnum berry extract and whole berry powder?
Viburnum berry extract is concentrated and standardized for active compounds like anthocyanins, offering higher potency per dose, while whole berry powder provides the full fruit profile with fiber and additional phytonutrients. Extract forms are more suitable for targeted therapeutic effects, whereas powder may be preferred for broad nutritional support and digestive benefits.
Which populations benefit most from Viburnum berry supplementation?
Individuals with cardiovascular concerns, respiratory sensitivity, or joint stiffness may benefit most from Viburnum berry's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Those seeking immune support during seasonal transitions or with tension-related discomfort may also find value in regular supplementation, though individual response varies.
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