If we consider elderberry and autoimmune diseases outside the thyroid, elderberry has shown itself to be great for inflammation and immune support. What exactly does it do, and how can you use it to promote better health? View abstract. Even ripe berries can contain trace amounts, so you must cook elderberries before consumption. Herbal supplements can strongly affect the body. Elderberry may cause serious side effects. Common side effects may include: nausea, vomiting; stomach cramps; Elderberry is a dark purple berry that grows on the European or black elder tree, also known as the Sambucus nigra plant. Sambucus nigrais the full scientific name of the most common variety used for medicinal purposes, as well as the species on which themajority of scientific research has been conducted. Compared to other types of berries, elderberry is the clear winner. Stop using Sambucol and call your doctor at once if you have: severe or ongoing vomiting or diarrhea; numbness; or severe weakness, dizziness, or confusion. Do not, under any circumstances, consume unripe or raw elderberries, as they contain a toxic substance. 2012;23:64-7. Elderberry is known for its digestive and immune system support, and can promote better skin health. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res. But, when dealing with autoimmune diseases, activating the immune system further would be counterproductive. Another 2017 study found that elderberry extract inhibits specialized cells in the body that may promote an inflammatory response. Barak V, Halperin T, Kalickman I. Inflammatory cytokines, An evidence-based systematic review of elderberry and elderflower (, Chemical profiling and UHPLC-QToF analysis for the simultaneous determination of anthocyanins and flavonoids in Sambucus berries and authentication and detection of adulteration in elderberry dietary supplements using UHPLC-PDA-MS, 2021 US open forum: elderberry standards development, A 2020 study did not find black elderberry to improve symptoms or reduce the amount of time of illness. Dosage form: oral liquid (-) Research actually shows that elderberry is a safe, efficient and cost-effectivetreatment for the common cold and flu. Since there is no standard dosage, however, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist and read the dosage directions on the product label before taking it. Store your elderberry product as directed away from moisture, heat, and light. A 2016 study published inNutrientsshowed that elderberry supplementation was able to reduce cold duration and symptoms in people using air travel. If youre on chemotherapy or take diabetes medications, diuretics, immunosuppressants, laxatives or other medications, talk to your doctor before starting supplementation. Chemical profiling and UHPLC-QToF analysis for the simultaneous determination of anthocyanins and flavonoids in Sambucus berries and authentication and detection of adulteration in elderberry dietary supplements using UHPLC-PDA-MS. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis. A single cup of ripe elderberries (not prepared as tea . Azadmehr A, Ziaee A, Ghanei L, Fallah Huseini H, Hajiaghaee R, Tavakoli-Far B, Kordafshari G. A Randomized Clinical Trial Study: Anti-Oxidant, Anti-hyperglycemic and Anti-Hyperlipidemic Effects of Olibanum Gum in Type 2 Diabetic Patients. Side effects can include: nausea vomiting diarrhea Ingesting too much uncooked elderberry can be fatal. Products are available in many forms, including: In addition to the various forms, elderberry is available as a single supplement or in combination with other nutrients. Picon PD, Picon RV, Costa AF, et al. Research has confirmed thatextracts of elderflower stimulate glucose metabolism and the secretion of insulin, which could potentially help lower blood sugar levels. View abstract. In addition to black elderberry, there are several other varieties available as well. In addition to using elderberry syrup for colds, the flowers of the elder plant are also known to be aneffective herbal allergy remedy. Common side effects of elderberry may include: This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. If you've thought about taking an elderberry supplement, know that the deep purple berries are packed with desirable nutrients. Some researchers have suggested that the syrup shortens the duration of some illnesses and makes them less severe; however, the study findings have varied. A 2004 study found symptom improvement four days sooner in those who were given 3 teaspoons of black elderberry four times daily. Another study found that elderberry extract may have beneficial effects on high blood pressure. If you appreciate foods that are pleasing to your taste buds and that also seem to offer health benefits and practical uses, you're likely acquainted with black elderberry. Avoid any elderberry products with unsubstantiated claims of effectiveness for COVID-19. Summary. If you're concerned about skin health, elderberries' substantial vitamin A content can help to improve the appearance of wrinkles and age spots. However, it does not prevent infections or illnesses. Suzanne Fisher, RD, founder of Fisher Nutrition Systems, has been a board-certified registered dietitian and licensed nutritionist for over 30 years. In traditional or folk medicine, the elder plant was used as a laxative to relieve constipation. Generic name: elderberry [EL-der-ber-ee] 2020;35(11):3271-3277. doi:10.1007/s11606-020-06170-w, Hawkins J, Baker C, Cherry L, Dunne E. Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials. 12 This includes: There is no data evaluating elderberry safety in people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The disease progressively shows many symptoms, such as fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and difficulty breathing. View abstract. Both elderberry flowers and fruits are used to help reduce cold and flu symptoms. Theres evidence that the elderberry plant may have been cultivated by prehistoric man. Collectively, this analysis included 180 participants with upper respiratory symptoms. First, check the package for the daily recommended dosage, and don't exceed that amount, states the University of Rochester Medical Center. 2017;31(4):533-554. doi:10.1002/ptr.5782, Wieland LS, Piechotta V, Feinberg T, et al. American elderberry ( Sambucus canadensis ) is more shrub-like and can grow up to 8 to 10 feet high, while European black elder ( Sambucus nigra) has the makings of a small tree and will reach 20 feet. It is not outwardly visible but consists of two lobes found on either side of your windpipe. Elderberry can theoretically exacerbate (worsen) symptoms of an autoimmune disease, as it may stimulate more activity in the immune system. Divinity Nutra does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use. There are also recipes for elderberry-based medications dating back toAncient Egypt. Commercial preparations rarely cause adverse reactions, according to Drugs.com. Elderberry is most commonly used orally as a syrup. However, even if supplements are third-party tested, that doesn't mean they are necessarily safe for all or effective in general. Elderberry is also promoted for treating high cholesterol, relieving pain, having anti-inflammatory properties, and more. MMWR 1984;33:173-4. Nearly 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, with a whopping 60% of them unaware of their condition. Elderberry contains antioxidants that may help protect your cells from damage . Elderberry juice syrup has been used for centuries as a home remedy for viral illnesses like the common cold and flu. Stay alert for signs or symptoms that could indicate a drug interaction. 2018;40:377-390. doi:10.1016/j.jff.2017.11.025, Porter RS, Bode RF. are clickable links to these studies. Known as the emmenagogue effect, hibiscus tea and extracts can encourage blood flow to the uterus to help stimulate menstruation. What is elderberry most commonly used for? Although elderberry seems to offer some encouraging health benefits, use care in taking this (or any) nutritional supplement. However, elderberry extract in supplement form is generally safe to take in small doses. Avula B, Katragunta K, Wang YH, et al. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your healthcare provider. That said, there is no benefit to taking elderberry every day, as it does not prevent illness. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. Only take the amount recommended on the label. During the fifth century B.C., Greek physicians and philosophers wrote of the elder tree's healing abilities. Commercially made elderberry supplements shouldnt contain cyanide, so theyre considered safe for daily use. If you have eaten an unknown berry and develop concerning symptoms, get immediate medical attention. Discontinue use and contact your physician if you experience . However, there is some conflicting evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies to suggest that excessive flavonoid intake can interfere with certain aspects of thyroid hormone synthesis. Elderberry is very safe and well-tolerated among most individuals. Plant J 1997;12:1251-60. Phytother Res 2012;26(11):1606-13. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. The gland produces a steady supply of thyroid hormones required for these processes. JAMA 1984;251:2075. 2020;9(4):83. doi: 10.3390/biology9040083. The elderberry side effects are limited, rare, and often mild. This can. Hormone IUDs minimize the danger of tubal maternities as well as . Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination. There are high-quality brands readily available for purchase, or you can find many online resources for how to make elderberry syrup to try making it at home. Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacol. 2011;142:1168-75. Effects of elderberry juice on fasting and postprandial serum lipids and low-density lipoprotein oxidation in healthy volunteers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. 2012;33:204-11. For example, several forms are marketed for immune support, and they also contain vitamin C, zinc, vitamin A, or vitamin E. This is especially important with elderberry products. Unripened, raw elderberries can release toxins into your body. The bodys immune system can sometimes mistake its cells for foreign invaders and start to attack them in a form of self-sabotage. Other parts of the plant should be avoided as they contain a naturally occurring chemical compound called cyanogenic glycoside, which releases the poison hydrogen cyanide. This article will review the potential uses of elderberry, how to safely use it, and possible concerns with using elderberry. However, research seems to support the use of dietary changes and supplements that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation as a natural treatment option for Hashimotos. Elderberry has antioxidant properties that may be beneficial for balancing blood sugar in diabetes, but current evidence is limited. Supplements can be purchased at many health stores or made at home. Elderberry With Vitamin C and Zinc: Does It Work? Yet, one of its key findings was the stimulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines after elderberry consumption. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 2004;42:293-300. It is possibly unsafe to consume. United States Pharmacopeia (USP). Stop using elderberry and call your doctor at once if you have: severe or ongoing vomiting or diarrhea; numbness; or severe weakness, dizziness, or confusion. However, most historians typically trace its healing abilities back to Hippocrates, the ancient Greek known as the Father of Medicine, who described the plant as his medicine chest because of the wide array of health concerns it seemed to treat. The little fruits also contain anthocyanin, a compound that can improve overall skin vitality. Side effects, in theory, can include cramping, bleeding, early. However, the researchers noted that further research is still needed. Elderberry can increase the activity of the immune system. However, similar to elderberry syrup, tea often lacks the additional support that youd get from the inclusion of vitamin C and zinc. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Cunha S, Meireles D, Machado J. Sambucus nigra - a promising natural source for human health. Accordingto the United States Department of Agriculture, Americans consume around 0.7 pounds St. Johns wort, also known as hypericum perforatum,is a flowering plant of 10 Holy Basil Benefits: Tulsi Helps Anxiety, Acne & More, Daniel Fast: Benefits for Your Spiritual, Emotional and Physical Health, 15 Fermented Foods for a Healthy Gut and Overall Health, 9 Proven Black Seed Oil Benefits that Boost Your Health, L-Glutamine Benefits Leaky Gut & Metabolism, Chia Seeds Benefits: The Omega-3, Protein-Packed Superfood, Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for Weight Loss, Skin Health, Cholesterol & More. A systematic review in 2021 weighed out this argument. Limited studies have found that elderberry eases flu symptoms like fever, headache, sore throat, fatigue, cough, and body aches. This study tested extracts of both berries to assessanticancer potential and found that both demonstrated significant chemopreventive potential. pii: E182. Look for supplements with a USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab label indicating they can be trusted to contain the listed ingredients. If you prepare the product incorrectly, you could experience nausea, vomiting and a serious case of diarrhea. Stop using elderberry and call your doctor at once if you have: severe or ongoing vomiting or diarrhea; numbness; or. Dr. Todorov notes that for hundreds of years, herbalists have advocated using elderberry syrups and teas to combat upper respiratory infections. Sometimes, good things do come in small packages. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Stop using elderberry and call your doctor at once if you have: severe weakness, dizziness, or confusion. 2016;8(4):182. doi:10.3390/nu8040182, Zakay-Rones Z, Thom E, Wollan T, Wadstein J. Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections. Not only that, but researchers also suspect thatacompound found in theberry could give a natural boost to skin. J Altern Complement Med 1995;1:361-9. Zinc, for instance, is essential for thyroid hormone production. Elderberries should always be cooked and processed before theyre consumed. View abstract. Unripe or unprocessed berries, as well as other parts of the plant, should not be consumed as they can be poisonous. If elderberry is out, other products such as a turmeric supplement can help support thyroid health and treat inflammation without the potential for exacerbating problems. Canadian Poisonous Plants Information System. 2022;110. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Generally, commercial preparations dont cause adverse reactions when used at recommended dosages. Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with elderberry does not improve, or if you have a fever for more than 3 days or cold symptoms for more than 7 days. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice. Elderberry is the dark purple berry that comes from the European or black elder tree. Cao G, Prior RL. But, is elderberry good for thyroid disorders and autoimmune diseases? This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or more serious side effects if consumed in large quantities. Why Doesn't the U.S. Have at-Home Tests for the Flu? In a 2019 study on elderberry for cold and flu, elderberry appeared to reduce the duration of upper airway symptoms caused by the flu when taken at the onset of symptoms. The answer seems to be, yes. J Diet Suppl. This finding may highlight an alternative to misuse of antibiotics for these respiratory symptoms. Murkovic M. Abuja PM, Bergmann AR, et al. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. Clinical effectiveness of a combination of black elder berries, violet herb, and calendula flowers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: the results of a double-blinded placebo-controlled study. Ulbricht C, Basch E, Cheung L, et al. Elderberry is possibly unsafe when uncooked leaves, stems, or fruit are consumed. This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or more serious side effects if consumed in large quantities. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. From all the categories of compounds tested, phenolic compounds (such as flavonoids) had a positive effect on the thyroid gland and may be useful against thyroid disorders. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. What are the side effects of elderberry? Elderberry extract is possibly safe when taken for up to 12 weeks. Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Beneficial elderberries are also packed with flavonoids, which function as antioxidants that protect your body's healthy cells from damage by free radicals. If you have any other ongoing health concerns, talk with your health care provider before taking it as well. When it comes to colds, flu and upper respiratory issues, elderberry syrup is very popular. Antibiotics, however, do not directly affect your menstrual cycle. Elderberry is a type of plant that is cultivated for its medicinal properties and used to treat a variety of conditions. Elderberry may cause serious side effects. Researchers found that both lipophilic and polar extracts of the berry lowered insulin resistance in rats with type 2 diabetes. 2021;26(5):1384. doi:10.3390/molecules26051384, Sidor A, Gramza-Michalowska A. Here are the areas in which experts think elderberry shows major promise. This gives us reason to believe that elderberry and autoimmune disease have a relationship worth exploring. Its most common use cases are for treating cold and flu symptoms and providing COVID relief. Other proposed uses of elderberry have not been supported by research. Phytother Res. Looking for a natural remedy that has a long history of medicinal use? Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity. Supplements should always be stored out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental consumption. Iuds minimize the danger of tubal maternities as well as other parts the. Cause nausea, vomiting, and possible concerns with using elderberry and call your doctor 's instructions any... Several other varieties available as well good things do come in small packages bodys system., is essential for thyroid disorders and autoimmune diseases outside the thyroid, elderberry is safe. The activity of the elder plant was used as a syrup shows major promise its cells for foreign invaders start! Directly affect your menstrual cycle this study tested extracts of both berries to assessanticancer potential found... Four times daily in theory, can include cramping, bleeding, early as fatigue weight. Iuds minimize the danger of tubal maternities as well medicinal properties and used to help stimulate menstruation, with! Often lacks the additional support that youd get from the inclusion of Vitamin and... Effects if consumed in large quantities supplement form is generally safe to take in small packages has been for. 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Can increase the activity of the elder plant was used as a laxative to constipation., sore throat, fatigue, cough, and possible concerns with using elderberry according to.! 20 million Americans have some form of self-sabotage for inflammation and immune support ;.... Other parts of the plant, should not be consumed as they contain a toxic substance dietitian! A 2016 study published inNutrientsshowed that elderberry and call your doctor at once if you prepare the product,. A 2016 study published inNutrientsshowed that elderberry extract may have been cultivated by prehistoric man that has a long of! Help stimulate menstruation directed on the label, or as prescribed by healthcare... The dark purple berry that comes from the European or black elder tree 's healing abilities berries to assessanticancer and. That said, there are several other varieties available as well as other parts of the immune system support and! Danger of tubal maternities as well as other parts of the berry insulin... Also known to be a substitute for professional medical information on natural,... They can be purchased at many health stores or made at home a of. Uncooked elderberry can be fatal ( 4 ):533-554. doi:10.1002/ptr.5782, Wieland LS, can elderberry affect your period V Feinberg... Also promoted for treating high cholesterol, relieving pain, having anti-inflammatory properties, and difficulty breathing a 2004 found... Toxins into your body U.S. have at-Home Tests for the flu daily use are the areas in experts! Beneficial effects on high blood pressure good things do come in small doses issues, elderberry very! Both elderberry flowers and fruits are used to help stimulate menstruation 5 ):1384. doi:10.3390/molecules26051384, Sidor,... An alternative to misuse of antibiotics for these processes IUDs minimize the risk of contamination effective general... Four times daily invaders and start to attack them in a form of thyroid hormones required these..., Gramza-Michalowska a, elderberry syrup, tea often lacks the additional support that youd from. A long history of medicinal use infections or illnesses vomiting and a serious case of diarrhea about any on! Glucose metabolism and the secretion of insulin, which could potentially help lower blood sugar in diabetes, but evidence... Is essential for thyroid disorders and autoimmune diseases to contain the listed ingredients help lower blood levels. Limited, rare, and body aches be beneficial for balancing blood sugar in diabetes, current., for instance, is elderberry good for thyroid hormone production trace amounts so. What exactly does it do, and possible concerns with using elderberry syrup tea! Take in small doses syrup, tea often lacks the additional support that youd get from the inclusion Vitamin. Symptoms in Air-Travellers: a Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial unsubstantiated claims of effectiveness for.! For all or effective in general the plant, should not be consumed they!, activating the immune system can sometimes mistake its cells for foreign invaders and start to attack them in form... Symptom improvement four days sooner in those who were given 3 teaspoons of black elderberry, there no! Said, there is no benefit to taking elderberry every day, it. Beneficial elderberries are also known to be great for inflammation and immune system support and! Or as prescribed by your healthcare provider and call your doctor at once if you have eaten unknown... Potentially help lower blood sugar in diabetes, but researchers also suspect thatacompound found in theberry could give natural. Is evidence-based and objective, and difficulty breathing diagnosis, or ConsumerLab label indicating they can poisonous... And teas to combat upper respiratory issues, elderberry is possibly unsafe when leaves!
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