Pregnancy. Breastfeeding and Elderberry

Some of our most commonly asked questions are: 
Can I take Elderberry while Pregnant?
Can I take Elderberry while Breastfeeding?
How do I take Elderberry Syrup?

Can my child use elderberry syrup?

DISCLAIMER: We are not medical professionals. We advise you to speak with your medical professional if you have further questions. Please be sure to tell your medical professional all of the medications/supplements you are taking in the event that you experience an unlikely reaction.

Can I take elderberry syrup during pregnancy?

A quick internet search may leave you with more questions than answers. In short, like many other herbal supplements, elderberry has not been extensively studied during pregnancy. That’s one reason it’s difficult to find a straight answer. Elderberry is “generally regarded as safe”. 

There are no current studies looking specifically at elderberry use during pregnancy. There is one study that suggests the immune system during pregnancy may be EXTRA stimulated in response to certain viruses like influenza (Stanford). Elderberry acts as an immune modulator, so there is a possible question at “how much stimulation is too much”, but there are not any evidence based answers at this point in time. This is one of those grey areas.

If we take a more historic look at elderberry use during pregnancy, there are many herbalist books and records of elderberry being an herb of choice during pregnancy:

• The Definitive Guide to Natural Pregnancy Health (2007)
• Review of Elderberry and Echinacea studies
• Clinical Guide to Elderberry (American Botanical Council)

Our founder has used elderberry during 2 out of 3 pregnancies. We have MANY expecting customers who also use our elderberry during pregnancy with no issue. Our syrups are made with simple, organic ingredients. If you notice an adverse reaction or side effect (though rare), please contact your health care provider.

If you’re still not sure about using elderberry during pregnancy, here are some other interventions to research:

• Symptom management (letting the virus run it’s course, but easing symptoms with OTC medications)
• Prescription antiviral medications (read through this link with a grain of salt- the “trials” that are referenced are not large, long-term trials)
• Other herbal supplements

Can I take elderberry syrup while breastfeeding?

Elderberry use during breastfeeding is generally regarded as safe! This link from NCBI link tells a bit more about breastfeeding and elderberry. One of our FAVORITE evidence-based breastfeeding resources is KellyMom.com, and they shared this well written article on cold and flu supplements to use while breastfeeding from San Diego Breastfeeding Center. Feed on, mama!

How do I use Elderberry Syrup?

Check out our blog post that outlines the differences between our products and how to use them!

Can I give my child elderberry syrup? Can I give my baby elderberry syrup?

In most cases- YES! Check out our blog post that highlights WHY you might want to use elderberry for your child and WHEN and HOW to use!