Is elderberry tea safe in pregnancy?

Is Elderberry Tea Safe During Pregnancy?
The question of whether elderberry tea is safe for pregnant women is a complex one, as current research offers limited guidance. While elderberry is often praised for its potential health benefits, including immune support and anti-inflammatory properties, the safety of its consumption during pregnancy remains largely untested.
Lack of Comprehensive Research
Experts agree that there is insufficient data to definitively state whether elderberry is safe or unsafe for pregnant individuals. According to Dr. Shuhan He, an emergency medicine physician, “There is not enough sufficient data on the use of elderberry during pregnancy or lactation”. This sentiment is echoed across various sources, which highlight the absence of clinical trials specifically examining the effects of elderberry on pregnant women.
Potential Benefits and Risks
Elderberry is known for its ability to boost immunity and may help in treating infections, which can be appealing during pregnancy when immune systems can be compromised. However, the lack of safety data raises concerns. Some healthcare providers are cautious about recommending elderberry products, including tea, due to the uncertainty surrounding their effects on both the mother and the developing fetus.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Given the ambiguity surrounding elderberry’s safety, it is crucial for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare providers before incorporating elderberry tea or any elderberry products into their diet. While elderberry may offer health benefits, the potential risks associated with its consumption during pregnancy cannot be overlooked.
Conclusion
In summary, while elderberry tea may have appealing health benefits, the current lack of research on its safety during pregnancy means that caution is warranted. Pregnant individuals should prioritize discussions with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their dietary choices. Until more definitive research is available, the consensus remains that the safety of elderberry during pregnancy is uncertain.

Can I drink elderberry tea while breastfeeding?

With dried berries, it’s impossible to tell if they were ripe, so it’s best to avoid while breastfeeding. Since elderberry products are not evaluated by the FDA, Dr. Hale suggests to contact an herbal authority before ingesting while breastfeeding.

What teas should I avoid while pregnant?

Other herbal teas to avoid if you’re pregnant or nursing include:

• Alfalfa.
• Aloe.
• Angelica.
• Barberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Blue cohosh.
• Boldo.
• Borage.

Which teas to avoid pregnancy?

Pregnant women should limit their consumption of herbal tea. Teas containing ginger, citrus peel, lemon balm, and rose hips probably are safe in moderation. Pregnant women should avoid teas containing chamomile, licorice, peppermint, or raspberry leaf.

Are elderflower and elderberry the same?

Elderberry and elderflower actually come from the same plant, and represent its different growth stages. While consuming raw elderberries or other parts of the bark or leaves can be poisonous, the elderflower is an aromatic, light blossom that creates a floral and balanced flavor.

Who should not drink elderberry tea?

Toxicity. While elderberries are generally considered safe to consume, they do need to be cooked first. Fresh, uncooked elderberries are toxic and may cause nausea. Elderberry is not recommended for children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can I drink elderberry tea while pregnant?

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.

Can you take Zarbee’s elderberry while pregnant?

Is Zarbee’s® suitable during pregnancy and/or breastfeeding? For all Zarbee’s® Cough & Sore Throat Syrups: Since no data on use in pregnancy and breastfeeding are available, its use is not recommended. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a doctor before use.

Is elderflower tea safe during pregnancy?

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if elderflower is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Is elderberry vitamin C and zinc safe during pregnancy?

There isn’t enough research to guarantee that elderberry is safe during pregnancy. As with any supplement consumed while expecting, it’s important to speak to a health care provider first, especially if you’re feeling under the weather. Elderberry. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

What are the negative side effects of elderberry?

Side effects, toxicity, and interactions
Leaves, stems, raw and unripe berries, and other plant parts of the elder tree contain a toxic substance. If elderberry is not correctly prepared, it may cause nausea, vomiting, and severe diarrhea. You shouldn’t take more than the advised dosage.