The benefits of elderberry, or Sambucus nigra, a dark purple berry from a tree, have been widely discussed. This natural herb can be consumed in various forms—including pills, lozenges, syrups, and gummies—and is readily available on the shelves of grocery stores and pharmacies as an alternative to more intensive medications.
While elderberry is often regarded as a gentle and effective remedy, it’s crucial for pregnant individuals to carefully consider the potential health impacts before trying something new. Below, we explore whether elderberry is safe to use during pregnancy, as well as its effectiveness.
What Is Elderberry?
Elderberry is a dark purple berry that grows on the black elder tree, which can be found in warmer regions of North America, Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa. This berry has been utilized as a natural remedy for common colds, influenza, and even COVID-19, although available evidence does not substantiate its effectiveness.
Moreover, raw elderberries are toxic and should be avoided, warns Kecia Gaither, MD, MPH, a dual board-certified physician in OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine. This caution extends to any preparations made from the plant’s bark, stem, leaves, or flowers due to their potential to cause poisoning.
Potential Health Benefits of Elderberry
Initial studies suggest that elderberry might help alleviate symptoms of upper respiratory infections, yet there remains insufficient data to conclusively prove its efficacy in this regard.
For instance, one study reviewed 1,187 records, including five randomized clinical trials, to assess elderberry’s effectiveness against viral respiratory illnesses, such as colds and flu. Unfortunately, no concrete evidence supported that elderberry could prevent or treat these viruses. Nonetheless, there were instances where elderberry appeared to shorten the duration of viral infections, although the support for this claim is weak and requires further investigation.
That being said, elderberries do offer some health advantages. “They exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, and cytokine-producing properties, all of which can enhance immune function,” notes Dr. Gaither. “This may assist in combating cold and flu viruses.” Additionally, elderberries have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, are high in fiber, and can help lower “bad” cholesterol levels in the body, she adds.
Is Elderberry Safe During Pregnancy?
Research regarding the safety of elderberry during pregnancy is sparse. “There is a lack of substantial data regarding the use of elderberry during pregnancy or lactation,” states Shuhan He, MD, an emergency medicine physician at Massachusetts General Hospital. “One outdated study reported gastrointestinal (GI) issues in pregnant women consuming elderberry. However, individual reactions vary, and many people experience no side effects at all.”
Although elderberry may present a safer alternative compared to some over-the-counter or prescription medications, this does not ensure it won’t produce negative effects, warns holistic wellness expert Audrey Christie, RN, MSN, ND. “While there haven’t been any significant adverse events reported with elderberry extract during pregnancy, it’s crucial to proceed with caution.” (It’s worth noting that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded an adverse event related to elderberry juice poisoning in the 1980s, but those affected were not pregnant.)
A significant limitation is that elderberry is classified as an herbal supplement rather than a drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA does not require approval for supplements before they are marketed; thus, it falls to the producer to adequately label and ensure safety. Only post-market can the FDA declare a supplement unsafe.
Therefore, it’s vital to be an informed consumer when purchasing and taking herbal supplements during pregnancy. Choose products from reputable companies that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and it’s advisable to steer clear of homemade preparations.
Alternatives to Elderberry in Pregnancy
While elderberry may not be the miracle remedy you had hoped for during pregnancy, rest assured—there are other strategies to maintain your health and bolster your immune system.
“The fundamental components of a robust immune system, regardless of age, include adequate sleep, a diet rich in whole plant foods, stress reduction, and sufficient vitamin D,” suggests Christie. And let’s not overlook the importance of simple handwashing. “Good hand hygiene is crucial,” emphasizes Dr. He.
Here are some further suggestions for preventing colds, flu, and COVID during pregnancy.
- Get vaccinated: Pregnant individuals are at a greater risk of severe illness from the flu or COVID-19. Hence, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that pregnant people receive their annual vaccination. Consult your healthcare provider regarding any other vaccines you might need, like those for whooping cough or hepatitis A and B.
- Ask your healthcare provider to evaluate your vitamin D levels: Vitamin D is crucial for immune function and response to illnesses. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests that, if a pregnant person is vitamin D deficient, taking 1,000 to 2,000 international units daily is generally safe.
Key Takeaway
There is insufficient research to confirm that elderberry is safe during pregnancy. As with any supplement taken while expecting, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider beforehand, particularly if you’re feeling unwell.
