Elderberry Extract, Oil Soluble Preservative

Elderberries are small, dark purple berries that grow on leafy shrubs. The shrubs produce small, white, fragrant flowers that develop into the deeply colored berries. Elderberries have been traditionally used in herbal medicine and as natural flavorings for jams, cordials and other foods and beverages.

Elderberries are rich in phenolics, anthocyanins, and flavonols that exhibit natural broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. They are particularly effective against fungal microorganisms such as C. albicans and A. brasiliensis.

As the media continues to focus its attention on the risks of parabens, formaldehyde releasers, and other synthesized preservatives, product formulators and manufacturers are facing the growing challenge of procuring natural alternatives that provide suitable broad spectrum protection.

Natural Sourcing is pleased to offer manufacturers and formulators a range of premium quality natural preservatives, including Elderberry Extract.

Elderberry Extract helps to resist microbial contamination and control microbial growth while simultaneously offering antioxidant and conditioning benefits to the skin.

Properties:

• Product Form: Liquid
• Solubility: Oil
• Color: Clear, Slightly Hazy
• Odor: Faint, Slightly Bitter, Characteristic Aroma
• Viscosity: Medium
• Skin Conditioning
• Antimicrobial (Antibacterial and Antifungal)
• Microorganisms Tested:
• E. coli
• P. aeruginosa
• S. aureaus
• C. albicans
• A. brasiliensis

Uses:

Elderberry Extract is well suited for use as a natural antimicrobial in the production of skin care, hair care and cosmetic formulations. It is particularly effective against fungal microorganisms. In addition to its application as a natural antimicrobial, it also helps to condition and protect the skin.

Elderberry Extract is oil soluble and can be incorporated into anhydrous or oil-based formulations. It is stable and efficacious at temperatures up to 167 degrees F (75 degrees C) and within a pH range of 3-8.

Recommended Usage Rate: 1 - 5%

All formulations should be challenge tested by a qualified laboratory to ensure that each batch is properly preserved. The method of production, the specific components of the formulation, the environment in which the batch is formulated and the method of packaging all play a crucial role in the resulting shelf life of a batch. Therefore, we cannot guarantee your results when incorporating natural preservatives into your formulations. Only lab challenge testing can determine how and if a preservative is achieving the desired results.

Storage Information:

Mix well before use. Store in a cool, dry location. The ideal storage temperature range is 73-78 degrees Fahrenheit (23-25 degrees Celsius). Do not freeze.

Test Results

A modified Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) test was performed to evaluate the antifungal benefits of Elderberry Extract. The results demonstrate that concentrations between 1% and 5% are capable of inhibiting the growth of the test organisms.

A Double Challenge Test against Gram(+) and Gram(-) bacteria, as well as yeast and mold was completed to further elucidate the broad antimicrobial efficacy of Elderberry Extract.