If you are a breastfeeding mother, you may be wondering if it is safe to consume elderberry. Elderberry has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and there is some evidence that it can be helpful as traditional herbal medicine.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take a look at elderberry and breastfeeding and answer all of your questions!
What Is Elderberry?
Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra) is a shrub that grows in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. Ancient Egyptians used berries and flowers of the elderberry plant to treat cold and flu.
Elderberry can be eaten as berries or as an elderberry drink, and even made into gorgeous jams.
How does Elderberry Work?
A hot elderberry drink is a herbal supplement that are believed to provide medicinal and health benefits. It is used for treating and preventing colds, flu (black elderberry juice), bacterial and viral infections, and allergies. It is also used for boosting the immune system, improving heart health, and reducing inflammation.
Elderberry extract also contains beneficial compounds like anthocyanins and flavonoids. These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a good source of vitamin C.
What Are Elderberry Products?
Elderberry products come in a wide range of forms.
Elderberry Syrup
Elderberry syrup is used for treating colds and flu symptoms. It can also be used to treat upper respiratory infections.
It is made from the berries of the elderberry tree. The berries are rich in antioxidants.
Elderberry Supplementation
Elderberry supplements are most commonly used to boost the immune system. This is because elderberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which can help reduce the common cold duration.
Elderberry Juice
It is used as an antioxidant and a good source of vitamin C. It can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can cause cell death and disease.
Elderberry Gummies
Elderberry gummies are excellent for boosting your immune system. They are an excellent source of vitamin C and zinc, both of which are essential nutrients for a healthy immune system. Additionally, they can help fight off colds and flu symptoms by helping to reduce inflammation in the body.
Elderberry Tea
Elderberry tea is most commonly known for its warm and soothing properties, making it a popular choice to relieve flu and cold symptoms.
Is Elderberry Safe While Breastfeeding?
Elderberry fruit, yes, supplements possibly not. Taking elderberry while breastfeeding poses a health risk to pregnant and breastfeeding women. The syrup is a not suitable for breastfeeding mothers.
Elderberry products are not properly labeled and actual ingredients are not listed. Additionally, they are not proven safe for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women due to the lack of clinical studies and systematic review.
Some commercial preparations may contain other ingredients that aren’t safe for breastfeeding mothers or their infants.
It’s also important to be aware that unripe berries in some elderberry preparations can contain small amounts of cyanide. This is usually not a problem when consumed in small amounts, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re taking large doses or using concentrated extracts. Cooked berries do not have this risk.
Taking elderberry to boost immunity is generally safe and rarely caused allergic reactions. However, new moms should talk to their healthcare providers.
While breastfeeding, elderberry use, either taking herbal or dietary supplements, are advised against nursing mothers. Most herbal supplement brands are unregulated which means their ingredients have been not been tested for safety and efficacy.
Can I Take Elderberry Syrup While Breastfeeding?
Elderberry is one of the most popular medicinal herbs in the world. Breastfeeding mothers are highly advised to stay away from herbs used as medication. Its effect on breast milk has yet to be studied extensively.
During pregnancy, elderberry syrup is also not advised to boost immunity during flu season.
What Are the Dangers of Taking Herbal Medicine and Supplements While Breastfeeding?
Herbal medicine and supplements are not regulated by the FDA, which means that they can contain harmful ingredients. Some of these ingredients can be passed through breast milk to your baby, which can cause serious health problems.
Some of these supplements can also interfere with medications that you may be taking while breastfeeding, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.
If you’re considering taking an herbal supplement while breastfeeding, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid them altogether. Your baby’s health is worth more than any supposed benefits that the supplement might provide.
How to Stay Healthy While Breastfeeding?
As a new mom, you may be wondering how to stay healthy while breastfeeding. The good news is that there are a few simple things you can do to make sure you and your baby are getting the nutrients you need.
Here are a few tips for staying healthy while breastfeeding:
- Avoid supplements and instead eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods. breastmilk is made up of nutrients from the food you eat, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough vitamins such as vitamin C and minerals in your diet.
- Track your daily vitamin intake to make sure you get enough of them to avoid getting sick.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids is important for both you and your baby.
- Get some rest. Taking care of a newborn can be exhausting, so make sure you’re getting enough rest to maintain your health.
Conclusion on Taking Elderberries
So, can you take elderberry while breastfeeding? The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no. There are many conflicting answers out there. But one thing is for sure, thorough research studies are needed to be done to know how herbs such as elderberry work and affect women while breastfeeding or during pregnancy.
Taking these herbs as medicine is a personal choice. But we highly advised that you talk to your doctor before you take elderberry.
FAQ
Is It Safe to Take Herbal Medicine While Pregnant?
Herbal medicines are becoming increasingly popular as people look for natural alternatives to conventional medications. However, little is known about the safety of taking herbal medicines during pregnancy. Some herbs can cause miscarriage or birth defects, and others can interact with medications you may be taking during pregnancy.
If you’re considering taking any type of herbal medicine during pregnancy, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits of taking herbal medicines and make sure they won’t interact with any other medications you’re taking.
Herbal medicines are not regulated by the FDA, so it’s important to do your research before taking anything.
This article was written by Sandra Baker – full time writer and the mother of four amazing kids (including twins!)
She’s also a breastfeeding counselor and has spent years helping new parents learn how to care for their children. When she’s not writing or caring for her children, Sandra likes to spend time reading and taking walks with her husband.
