Dosage form: oral liquid (-) Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or more serious side effects if consumed in large quantities. However, she is careful to take a scientific approach, and doesn't currently endorse the use of elderberry syrup for colds and flu. Elderberry is the dark purple berry that comes from the European or black elder tree. Heres what you need to know, including its many benefits. 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. Research has confirmed thatextracts of elderflower stimulate glucose metabolism and the secretion of insulin, which could potentially help lower blood sugar levels. Hormone IUDs minimize the danger of tubal maternities as well as . Both the elder flower and the berryhave traditionally been used totreat diabetes. Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Speak with a, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, 6 Minutes of Exercise May Protect Brain From Alzheimer's, 'Disturbing' Rate of Adverse Events During Hospital Stays. Commercial preparations rarely cause adverse reactions, according to Drugs.com. If you decide to make your own elderberry syrup or similar product, obtain instructions from a reputable source and follow the directions exactly. Mol Nutr Food Res. However, even if supplements are third-party tested, that doesn't mean they are necessarily safe for all or effective in general. Elderberry has many nutrients. We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. 2022;110. These can include a change in your blood pressure or an unusually rapid heartbeat. If you have any other ongoing health concerns, talk with your health care provider before taking it as well. 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. However, the U.S. National Library of Medicine highlights a February 2019 meta-analysis of controlled, randomized clinical trials on elderberry use for cold and flu symptoms. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) The researchers used Sinupret to treat bacterial sinusitis along with an antibiotic (doxycycline or vibramycin) and a decongestant. If your symptoms continue to worsen, you should seek medical attention. Even ripe berries can contain trace amounts, so you must cook elderberries before consumption. If you have a preexisting thyroid condition, its best to speak with a doctor before adding elderberry into your treatment regimen. A 2016 study published inNutrientsshowed that elderberry supplementation was able to reduce cold duration and symptoms in people using air travel. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination. Tiralongo E, Wee SS, Lea RA. Elderberry has been shown to reduce symptoms of the flu. 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. Only take the amount recommended on the label. 2021;26(5):1384. doi:10.3390/molecules26051384, Sidor A, Gramza-Michalowska A. Not only that, but researchers also suspect thatacompound found in theberry could give a natural boost to skin. Written by Divinity Nutra, Updated on February 20, 2023. Available for Android and iOS devices. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use. These studies lead us to the conclusion that elderberries may temporarily increase inflammation to fight against diseases. 2001 Apr-Jun;12(2):290-296. Dr. Todorov notes that for hundreds of years, herbalists have advocated using elderberry syrups and teas to combat upper respiratory infections. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2018.12.004, Tiralongo E, Wee SS, Lea RA. 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. Eur J Clin Nutr 2004;58:244-9. Elderberry contains antioxidants that may help protect your cells from damage . Dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed. https://medlineplus.gov/autoimmunediseases.html, http://www.thyroid.org/hashimotos-thyroiditis/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11399518/, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1756464619300313, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5372600/, 6 Health Benefits and Uses for Elderberry Supplements. Its hard to believe in a one-size-fits-all remedy, but elderberries have lived up to their name as a superfruit over centuries of use. This article will review the potential uses of elderberry, how to safely use it, and possible concerns with using elderberry. It also plays a major role in the growth, development, and functioning of the heart, digestive tract, and muscles. But what happens if, despite your best efforts, you become affected by annoying common cold symptoms? 2018;40:377-390. doi:10.1016/j.jff.2017.11.025, Porter RS, Bode RF. Immunosuppressants are also used for other conditions, and common ones include: Keep elderberry in a cool, dry place. View abstract. Dietary supplements are not regulated like conventional food products or drugs in the United States. Ulbricht C, Basch E, Cheung L, et al. If your symptoms continue to worsen, you should seek medical attention. While these results are promising, further large-scale human studies are. Can elderberry cause side effects? However, elderberry extract in supplement form is generally safe to take in small doses. Researchers found that elderberry may reduce the duration and severity of symptoms related to colds and influenza, and there's no evidence that it overstimulates the immune system. It is marketed for several other conditions as well, but research is lacking. Both physical and mental stress can cause problems with the production of the gonadotrophin -releasing hormone (GnRH), a hormone that regulates ovulation and menstruation. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your healthcare provider. There may be a risk of hypoglycemia, and raw and . Other proposed uses of elderberry have not been supported by research. Zakay-Rones Z, Varsano N, Zlotnik M, et al. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. First, check the package for the daily recommended dosage, and don't exceed that amount, states the University of Rochester Medical Center. One study evaluating elderberry products on the market found that many did not contain elderberry. Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacol. Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have an autoimmune disease such as: Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. What are the side effects of elderberry? No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease. Elderberry may reduce the effectiveness of immune suppressants, which are common medications for people who have undergone organ transplant procedures. Increased fiber consumption has been shown to improve your gastrointestinal system function. Select a condition to view a list of vitamins. Researchers found that both lipophilic and polar extracts of the berry lowered insulin resistance in rats with type 2 diabetes. Schroder-Aasen T, Molden G, Nilsen OG. What are the benefits of elderberry? Another popular way to consume elderberries is to purchase an elderberry syrup. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Hashimotos thyroiditis and other autoimmune diseases are serious conditions and must be handled with care. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose. Before we analyze what science has discovered regarding this unique natural medicine, lets discuss thyroid dysfunctions in more detail. View abstract. Picon PD, Picon RV, Costa AF, et al. This is called a medicine interaction. Randomized clinical trial of a phytotherapic compound containing Pimpinella anisum, Foeniculum vulgare, Sambucus nigra, and Cassia augustifolia for chronic constipation. Although not all side effects are known, elderberry is thought to be possibly safe when taken as directed for a short period of time. Elderberry is native to Europe, Africa and parts of Asia, but its becomecommonin the U.S. Elderberry is also a fiber superstar, as you can meet over 40 percent of your daily fiber requirements by eating this unassuming little fruit. Anthocyanin is a type of natural plant pigment found in elderberry that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Viapiana A, Wesolowski M. The phenolic contents and antioxidant activities of infusions of Sambucus nigra L. Plant Foods Hum Nutr. Its never safe to eat unknown berries in nature, as they may have dangerous effects. In traditional or folk medicine, the elder plant was used as a laxative to relieve constipation. U.S. Department of Agriculture: FoodData Central. Taking an elderberry supplement regularly can optimize your immune system support. are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies. Inhibition of several strains of influenza virus in vitro and reduction of symptoms by an elderberry extract (Sambucus nigra L.) during an outbreak of influenza B Panama. Taking a specific elderberry extract syrup (Sambucol, Nature's Way) seems to reduce. Adverse effects of the copper IUD can consist of larger durations as well as worsening of menstruation aches The Mirena or Skyla IUDs have progesterone hormonal agents, which create cervical mucous to enlarge to avoid sperm from getting in the cervix as well as getting to the egg. The optimum dosage is 150-300 mg of elderberry extract per day. Frank T, Janssen M, Netzet G, Christian B, Bitsch I, Netzel M. Absorption and excretion of elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) anthocyanins in healthy humans. Common side effects of elderberry may include: This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Since there is no recommended dosage, follow the instructions on the product label or ask your provider how much you should use. These powerful little berries have a higher flavonol content than blueberries, blackberries, cranberries and goji berries. If you are considering using elderberry, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about whether it is an appropriate supplement for you. View abstract. Once standards are available, supplement companies can be held accountable for providing high-quality products. Research actually shows that elderberry is a safe, efficient and cost-effectivetreatment for the common cold and flu. If you prepare the product incorrectly, you could experience nausea, vomiting and a serious case of diarrhea. 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. Elderberrys high antioxidant capacity is the secret to its healing tendencies. Canadian Poisonous Plants Information System. Advanced research on the antioxidant and health benefit of elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in food a review. BMC Complement Med Ther. This herb is available in syrup, juice and tea form. Forster-Waldl E, Marchetti M, Scholl I, Focke M, et al. The gland produces a steady supply of thyroid hormones required for these processes. Additionally,the American elder extract showed inhibition of ornithine decarboxylase, which is an enzyme marker related to the promotion stage of cancer formation. The raw berries are made up of 80 percent water, 18 percent carbohydrates, and less than 1 percent each of protein and fat. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. Take at the the first sign of cold or flu symptoms. Be aware that elderberry has not been connected to any negative interactions with specific foods or medicines, stresses the Mayo Clinic. Because taking this nutritional supplement could potentially result in elderberry side effects, err on the side of caution. Some research suggests that elderberry tea benefits constipation and can help support regularity and digestive health. Elderberry With Vitamin C and Zinc: Does It Work? Other uses not proven with research have included heart disease, gum disease, high cholesterol, obesity, or the common cold. 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. Store your elderberry product as directed away from moisture, heat, and light. View abstract. Wu X, Cao G, Prior RL. 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. Elder is commonly found growing in woodlands and hedgerows. Some participants also took. The effect of Sambucol, a black elderberry-based, natural product, on the production of human cytokines: I. pii: E182. Raw elderberry contains a substance similar to cyanide. Stop using elderberry and call your doctor at once if you have: severe or ongoing . Elderberry also figures prominently in Native American medicine. Also called black elder or American elder, this prolific shrub is known for its small deep purple berries that typically ripen in late summer, notes Cornell Cooperative Extension. Its most common use cases are for treating cold and flu symptoms and providing COVID relief. 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. Some of the most common include: European elder flowers contain approximately 0.3 percent of an essential oil composed of free fatty acids and alkanes. If you're using your own preparation, cooking it neutralizes poisonous substances. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. A small, randomized trial found that a specific compound containing elderberries along with several other plants could act as aneffectivenatural laxativefor the treatment of constipation. Astudy conducted by the Institute of Complementary Medicines Department of Internal Medicine at the University Hospital in Zurich, Switzerland examined the use of a product called Sinupret, which contains elderberry extract. 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. 2023 DIVINITY NUTRA, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Elderberry extract has been found to help reduce the length and severity of symptoms caused by the influenza virus. J Gen Intern Med. Tea enthusiasts often brew the dried flowers into a sweet-tasting hot elderberry tea with benefits similar to the syrups or other preparations. Although some studies suggest that elderberry can provide some symptom relief, larger-scale research is needed in order to prove the efficacy of using elderberry syrup for colds. 2010;10:17. A systematic review in 2021 weighed out this argument. You can receive these benefits from taking an elderberry supplement. 2021 US open forum: elderberry standards development. The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. These drugs can also cause irregular bleeding. There is no safety data on the use of elderberry in children under 5 years of age. The effect of Sambucol, a black elderberry-based, natural product, on the production of human cytokines: I. Our website content and services are for informational purposes only. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. After you find (and harvest) those much-valued little berries, try canning several jars of elderberry jam, or stir them into a tasty homemade pie. Iran J Pharm Res. Elderberry extract appears to be safe when taken in small doses. View abstract. 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. Van Damme EJ, Roy S, Barre A, et al. Grbic J, Wexler I, Celenti R, et al. Compend.Contin.Educ.Dent. The berries are used to make medicine. This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or more serious side effects if consumed in large quantities. The uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 gave birth to much research on its influence outside the respiratory system, with the thyroid gland as a major stakeholder. Dr. Irina Todorov, an integrative medicine physician with the Cleveland Clinic, is cautiously optimistic about elderberry's benefits. Antibiotics, however, do not directly affect your menstrual cycle. It may also help lower blood sugar, improve heart health, support healthy skin and act as a. It is not certain whether elderberry is effective in treating any medical condition. Occasionally, however, elderflowers and elderberries can cause allergic reactions. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. View abstract. It may help reduce the length of a cold or the flu. Some don't work well with prescription medicines. 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. During the fifth century B.C., Greek physicians and philosophers wrote of the elder tree's healing abilities. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res. Elderberry has antioxidant properties that may be beneficial for balancing blood sugar in diabetes, but current evidence is limited. Since ancient times, elderberry has received mention for its health-enhancing properties, states the American Nutrition Association. Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections. It contains very high amounts of anthocyanins, flavonoids, dietary fiber, and vitamins. The elderberry side effects are limited, rare, and often mild. Read more: 8 Foods That Boost Your Immune System. In addition, stay alert for potential elderberry side effects. Read our, Natural and Herbal Cold and Flu Treatments. The bodys immune system can sometimes mistake its cells for foreign invaders and start to attack them in a form of self-sabotage. Title 21. Common side effects may include: nausea, vomiting; stomach cramps; Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 5 Feb 2023), Cerner Multum (updated 22 Feb 2023), ASHP (updated 12 Feb 2023) and others. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182. 2016;8(2):59-66. Black Elderberry 101 Everything You Need to Know, 10 Best Sambucus Elderberry Gummies for 2023, Elderberry Gummies: Benefits and Nutrition Facts. A 2016 study published in Nutrients showed that elderberry supplementation was able to reduce cold duration and symptoms in people using air travel. The dark, purplish berries are frequent supporters of bodily healing in Ayurveda, the worlds oldest branch of natural medicine. Unfortunately, direct research examining Hashimotos disease is limited. J Int Med Res. Research published in theJournal of Nutritionevaluated blackelderberrysinsulin-like and insulin-releasing actions in vitro. An evidence-based systematic review of elderberry and elderflower (Sambucus nigra) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. Cao G, Prior RL. Generally, commercial preparations dont cause adverse reactions when used at recommended dosages. Doctors prescribe diuretics when the body retains too much fluid, which is a common problem in older adults. But it may cause: Get medical attention if you develop these symptoms after consuming elderberry. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. What Is the Difference Between Wolfberries & Goji Berries? The berries and flowers of the elder plant are used as medicine. The group treated showedsignificant improvement in most signs of flu, whilethe placebo group showed no improvement in symptom severity. Bitsch I, Janssen M, Netzel M, et al. If you seek a warm, healthy cup of tea after a long day of discomfort, elderberry tea can help. The elder plant may possess beneficial anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-cancer effects, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some research suggests it reduces the severity and duration of symptoms associated with the flu or common cold. Sambucol is used to relieve cold & flu symptoms such as stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, fever, and chills. CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. . There is no significant evidence to support that it may exacerbate the immune system. European folklore links elderberry consumption to increased strength and a longer lifespan. View abstract. It is not outwardly visible but consists of two lobes found on either side of your windpipe. 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. View abstract. Complement Ther Med. Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2005;25(2):47-56. View abstract. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 2004;42:293-300. Follow all directions on the product label and package. Brand name: Sambucol Some parts of the elder plant such as the stem and leaves are also toxic to . Collectively, this analysis included 180 participants with upper respiratory symptoms. Stay alert for signs or symptoms that could indicate a drug interaction. Herbal supplements can interact with medicines used to treat heart and blood vessel problems, such as high blood pressure and heart failure. Clin Exp Allergy 2003;33:1703-10. Supplementation can assist your healing process, but severe cases of thyroid dysfunction may require extensive medication or surgery. 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. Kirichenko TV, Sobenin IA, Markina YV, et al. This is a safe and effective amount for general health and wellness, reducing inflammation, and supporting immunity. Dr. Jonas believed this pointed to multiple fertile periods one based on the body's menstrual cycle and the other based on a lunar cycle that influenced their fertility. The CDC's Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry reported that high levels of cyanide exposure within a short time can damage your heart and brain and may even lead to coma and death. Elderberry is known for its digestive and immune system support, and can promote better skin health. Most elderberry syrup recipe options out there involve simmering elderberries with a bit of water and a variety of other healing herbs for 45 minutes to an hour. Is Lamb Healthy? Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. Although commercial preparations are generally safe for consumption, eating raw elderberry may cause symptoms like nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Sambucol may cause serious side effects. 5 Reasons to Add Lamb Meat to Your Diet, St. Johns Wort Benefits for Depression, PMS & Menopause, Immunosuppressants, includingcorticosteroids (prednisone), and medications used to treat autoimmune diseases. Unfortunately, however, there are currently no studies evaluating elderberry itself forconstipation relief, so more research is still needed. J Nutr 2009;139:2266-71. There is no data evaluating elderberry safety in people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Elderberry is marketed mostly for immune support. Because of its powerful effects on health, elderberry supplements could potentially interact with several medications.