Is elderberry safe to take while breastfeeding?

Is Elderberry Safe to Take While Breastfeeding?
Elderberry, derived from the berries of the Sambucus nigra plant, is often touted for its immune-boosting properties and is commonly used to alleviate symptoms of colds and flu. However, when it comes to breastfeeding, the safety of elderberry remains a contentious topic among healthcare professionals.
Lack of Scientific Evidence
Most medical experts advise against the use of elderberry while breastfeeding due to a significant lack of scientific evidence supporting its safety and effectiveness in nursing mothers. The absence of robust research means that potential risks to both the mother and the infant are not well understood. While elderberry fruit is generally considered safe when cooked, the leaves, bark, and raw berries contain sambunigrin, which can release cyanide and pose health risks.
Potential Risks and Recommendations
Given the potential toxicity associated with certain parts of the elderberry plant, many healthcare providers recommend that breastfeeding mothers exercise caution. The general consensus is to avoid elderberry products unless specifically approved by a healthcare professional. This precaution is particularly important because, while there have been no widely reported adverse effects from elderberry consumption during breastfeeding, the lack of conclusive research means that the risks cannot be entirely ruled out.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
For mothers considering elderberry syrup or supplements, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. Individual circumstances can vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on a mother’s health history and the needs of her infant. Some anecdotal reports suggest that certain mothers have used elderberry syrup without issues, but these experiences do not substitute for scientific validation.
Conclusion
In summary, while elderberry is celebrated for its health benefits, its use during breastfeeding is generally discouraged due to the uncertainty surrounding its safety. The best course of action for nursing mothers is to seek guidance from healthcare professionals before incorporating elderberry into their regimen. Until more definitive research is available, caution is the prudent approach.

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.

Can you take Emergen C elderberry while breastfeeding?

However, it also indicates that there’s no harm to the infant when the mother’s consumption is within the recommended dietary allowance. So you can continue to take Emergen-C to support your immune system while breastfeeding, but remember not to exceed the recommended dosage.

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.

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 echinacea tea safe while breastfeeding?

You can find elderberry as a juice or syrup, as well as in teas, lozenges, tablets, and gummies. Bottom line: There’s some evidence that it’s effective, but it’s generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for children.

What can I take for immune system while breastfeeding?

Vitamin D3: Vitamin D3 supports infection-fighting cells and overall immune health. Taking 6,400 IU daily can ensure both you and your baby benefit, as 400 IU passes through breastmilk. Pair Vitamin D3 with K2 for better calcium absorption and cardiovascular support.

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 vitamin C and zinc safe while breastfeeding?

Elderberry is another popular cold and flu remedy. It’s often taken at the first sign of symptoms or as a preventative daily vitamin. However, it’s best to avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as its effects on newborns haven’t been studied enough.

Does elderberry affect breast milk?

Elderberry herbal supplement (L3). is a herb used to shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms. Although it is likely safe to take while breastfeeding, there have been no significant studies showing the effects of Elderberry consumption on breastfeeding infants or milk production.

How can I boost my baby’s immune system with breast milk?

Breastmilk contains many factors that help support a baby’s immune system. When you breastfeed your baby, you pass on lots of proteins, fats, sugars and cells that work against infections. The cells include antibodies, white blood cells, lactoferrin, lysozyme, oligosaccharides, probiotics and prebiotics.