Is elderflower safe while breastfeeding?

Is Elderflower Safe While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether elderflower is safe for breastfeeding mothers is a nuanced one, as it involves understanding both the potential benefits and risks associated with its use. Elderflower, derived from the blossoms of the elderberry plant (Sambucus nigra), is often praised for its health benefits, including its antioxidant properties and potential immune support. However, the safety of elderflower during breastfeeding is not entirely clear.
Potential Benefits of Elderflower
Elderflower is known for its rich nutritional profile, containing antioxidants, vitamin C, and other beneficial compounds. These properties can be appealing to new mothers looking to boost their health during the demanding breastfeeding period. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that elderflower may help with respiratory issues and inflammation, making it a popular choice in herbal remedies.
Concerns Regarding Safety
Despite its benefits, there are significant concerns regarding the use of elderflower while breastfeeding. The primary issue is the lack of comprehensive research on its effects on lactation and infant health. While small amounts of elderflower used in cooking are generally considered safe, larger medicinal doses may pose risks. Some sources indicate that elderflower could potentially decrease milk supply if consumed in large quantities.
Moreover, the elderberry plant contains parts that are toxic if not properly prepared, particularly the bark, leaves, and roots, which can release cyanide. While the flowers themselves are not toxic, the potential for contamination or misuse raises caution. Medical professionals often advise against using elderberry products, including elderflower, during breastfeeding due to the uncertainty surrounding their effects on both the mother and the infant.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
For breastfeeding mothers considering elderflower, moderation is key. Using elderflower in culinary applications, such as in teas or syrups, is likely safe in small amounts. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating elderflower or any herbal supplement into your diet, especially in larger doses or concentrated forms.
In summary, while elderflower may offer some health benefits, its safety during breastfeeding remains uncertain. Caution is advised, and professional guidance is essential to ensure both maternal and infant health are prioritized.

What herbs are not safe while breastfeeding?

Among the other milk-drying suspects: Aloe, alder buckthorn, barberry, cascara sagrada, ginseng, ephedra, ginger, goldenseal, green tea, guarana, kola nut, ma huang, male fern, parsley, purging buckthorn, rhubarb, sage, senna, wormwood, and yerba mate.

Is passionflower safe while breastfeeding?

DO NOT take passionflower if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. For others, passionflower is generally considered to be safe and nontoxic in recommended doses and for less than 2 months at a time.

What kind of tea dries up breast milk?

To help dry up your milk supply: Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma.

Can I drink elderberry 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).

Are elderberry and elderflower 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.

Can I drink elderflower when breastfeeding?

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.

What teas should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Some types of tea can affect breastmilk production and cause side effects in the baby. Teas that should be avoided include lemongrass, oregano, parsley, peppermint, ginseng, kava andillicium verum. They should be avoided whenever possible, or consumed only under the supervision of a doctor.

Who should not take elderflower?

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. Surgery: Elderflower might lower blood sugar levels. This might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery.

What is another name for elderflower?

Other names include: Arbre de Judas, Black-Berried Alder, Black Elder, Boor Tree, Bountry, Common Elder, Ellanwood, Ellhorn, European Alder, European Black Elder, European Black Elderflower, European Elderflower, European Elder Flower, Fleur de Sureau, Fleur de Sureau Noir, Flor de Saúco, Flos Sambuci, Hautbois, Haut …

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.