Can breastfeeding moms have elderberry?

The Safety of Elderberry for Breastfeeding Moms
As the popularity of elderberry continues to rise, many breastfeeding mothers are left wondering whether this herbal remedy is safe for them and their infants. Known for its immune-boosting properties, elderberry (Sambucus nigra) has been touted as a natural way to fend off colds and flu. However, medical experts urge caution when it comes to its use during breastfeeding.
Potential Risks and Concerns
One of the primary concerns surrounding elderberry is the lack of comprehensive studies on its effects in breastfeeding mothers. The Infant Risk Center categorizes elderberry syrup as potentially hazardous, primarily because it has not been adequately studied in this demographic. Ethical considerations make it challenging to conduct double-blind scientific research involving pregnant or breastfeeding women, leaving a significant gap in knowledge about the herb’s safety.
Moreover, elderberry contains compounds that can be toxic if not prepared correctly. While the cooked berries are generally safe, the bark, leaves, and roots contain sambunigrin, which can release cyanide. This potential toxicity raises further concerns about the herb’s safety for nursing mothers and their babies.
Lack of Evidence on Transfer to Breast Milk
Another critical issue is the uncertainty regarding whether elderberry passes into breast milk. Medical professionals caution that without definitive studies, it remains unclear how elderberry might affect a breastfeeding infant. Many doctors recommend avoiding elderberry in any form during this period due to the unknowns surrounding its transfer to breast milk and its potential effects on infants.
Anecdotal Evidence vs. Medical Advice
While some mothers report positive experiences with elderberry syrup, claiming it helped them and their families stay healthy, these anecdotes do not substitute for scientific evidence. For instance, some personal accounts suggest that elderberry syrup was beneficial during postpartum recovery and breastfeeding. However, these testimonials often lack the rigorous scrutiny that medical advice demands.
Conclusion: Proceed with Caution
In summary, while elderberry is celebrated for its health benefits, breastfeeding mothers should approach its use with caution. The absence of research on its safety during lactation, combined with the potential for toxicity and the unknowns regarding its transfer to breast milk, leads most healthcare providers to recommend avoiding elderberry altogether. For mothers seeking natural remedies, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any new supplement into their routine.

Is elderberry safe during pregnancy?

Due to lack of evidence of efficacy and safety, health care personnel should not advice pregnant women to use echinacea or elderberry against upper respiratory tract infection.

Is emergen C safe to take while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

What vitamins decrease milk supply?

If you haven’t nursed your infant yet, high doses of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin) may work to suppress lactation. One older study from the 1970s suggested that high doses B6, B1, and B12 suppressed lactation for 96% of the participants, with no unpleasant side effects.

Is elderberry OK for babies?

When can babies have elderberries? Cooked elderberries may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. Raw elderberries are not safe to eat because they contain a natural toxin that can cause serious health problems.

What can I take while breastfeeding for a cold?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.

Is elderberry safe while breastfeeding?

Elderberry, winter colds & flu, & pregnancy: MANY of you have asked me about the safety of elderberry syrup for winter health — there is no known contraindication to using the syrup on a daily basis during pregnancy (and while breastfeeding).

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

How can I fight a cold while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

How can I boost my immune system while breastfeeding?

How Breastfeeding Moms Can Strengthen Their Immunity

1. Eat a balanced diet. Following a well-rounded diet will help protect your body against colds, flus, and other illnesses.
2. Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated will help your immune system—and your milk supply, too.
3. Catch some ZZZs.
4. Get Moving.
5. Keep stress in check.