Elderberry (2024)

FAQs

Who shouldn't take elderberry? ›

Elderberry appears to have few side effects when used properly for short periods of time (up to 5 days). Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take elderberry. If you have an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, ask your doctor before taking elderberry, as it may stimulate the immune system.

When uncooked, elderberries contain a toxic substance that can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, so any preparation of elderberries you use should be cooked. Commercial preparations of elderberry such as syrups and lozenges don't contain this substance and are generally recognized as safe for that reason.

Yes, you can take elderberry supplements daily, even three to four times a day. However, you should not take more than the recommended daily dose. Elderberry is a medicinal plant used widely to treat diseases.

May improve cold and flu symptoms

One 2004 study of 60 people with influenza found that those who took 15 mL of elderberry syrup four times per day showed symptom improvement in 2 to 4 days, while the control group took 7 to 8 days to improve ( 10 ).

The antioxidants in elderberry have suspected benefits such as, reduced risk of tumors, boosted immune function, lower blood pressure levels, and reduced blood sugar levels.

Cooking elderberries is not just a culinary step; it's a safety measure. To neutralize toxins, specifically cyanide-inducing glycosides, heat treatment is a must. Boiling elderberries for at least 30 minutes is the go-to method. This ensures the destruction of harmful compounds.

Elderberry side effects

The elderberry plant contains a chemical that produces cyanide in the leaves or other plant parts and in the unripe green fruit. This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or more serious side effects if consumed in large quantities. Elderberry may cause serious side effects.

Cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers and liver and kidney function are not altered in postmenopausal women after ingesting an elderberry extract rich in anthocyanins for 12 weeks.

What is the best form of elderberry to take? ›

You can choose from many forms, such as capsules, teas, lozenges, liquids and gummies. If you struggle with swallowing, you may prefer lozenges or gummies, whereas if you prefer to consume your supplement as a warm drink, tea will suit you. For quick consumption, an elderberry extract or pills will be the way to go.

Aid Weight Loss

Since elderberries are rich in fiber, they could improve satiety. Feeling full longer could aid your weight loss goals. In one study, participants that consumed elderberry juice enriched with elderflower saw an improvement in weight regulation.

Because of serious potential risks, elderberry is not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Elderberry gummies are a popular supplement for adults and children. Many people take them to help prevent or treat colds. Elderberries may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. However, human studies don't currently provide much evidence to support these uses ( 1 ).

“While studies have yet to show a direct connection between elderberry and chronic lung conditions, elderberry does contain quercetin, which is a flavonoid and antioxidant that's known to support lung function, especially in those who suffer from asthma and chronic obtrusive pulmonary disease (COPD),” Jones explained.