Can You Take Elderberry Every Day?

What is Elderberry?

The elderberry plant is scientifically called Sambucus nigra, and this plant blooms in Europe, some parts of Asia and North America. Its dark bluish-black berries have been consumed as an anthelmintic and astringent substance for ages, although the probable use of black currant as a source of vitamins, medications and wines goes back as far as ancient Egypt, Greece, and medieval Europe.

These sour berries are small grown in bunches and are mostly processed to produce jellies, jams and the popular elderberry wine. However, it is not only the berries that possess said features and can be considered healthy; both the flowers and the leaves of the plant have also been used as medicine.

Potential Benefits of Elderberry

Several clinical trials have pointed toward a possible array of health benefits associated with elderberry consumption, with a key highlight being its impact on the immune system. Let's take a closer look at some of these potential advantages:

Boosts Immune System

One of the famous qualities of elderberry extract is its capability to improve immunity and still counts as a go-to remedy in the flu season. Many scientific publications proved that elderberry extract significantly decreases the severity and length of cold and flu symptoms.

For example, the study that related to the use of elderberry extract proved that it helped in significantly shortening the symptoms of flu as compared to a placebo group. This implies that elderberry could be of immense natural supplement benefits in reducing the effects of viral infections since the immune system is reinforced.

High in Antioxidants

This fruit contains a rich number of antioxidants, among which one can distinguish flavonoids in the form of anthocyanins. These compounds are important because they assist in removing free radicals from the body. Free radicals are highly reactive particles, which, through oxidation can lead to severe damage to the cells and put one at risk of developing chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

There is a suggestion that owing to the highest antioxidant properties in elderberries, cells are shielded from this oxidative stress and this is viewed to improve general health and even longevity resulting from decreased probabilities of these chronic diseases.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is an essential part of the body’s response to injury and infection; however, inflammation that happens for a long time is connected to different illnesses, such as arthritis, heart illness, and autoimmune diseases. If Elderberry is consumed it can reduce inflammation and studies have also highlighted that Elderberries are a good source of antioxidants. Different research has shown that elderberry has an effect of lowering some inflammation markers in the body.

As such, it can be stated that while taking elderberry, one feels less of the symptoms of inflammation such as in arthritis, thus promoting the natural ways of helping with inflammation thus helping with muscles and joint pains.

Heart Health

It is also noted that elderberry is of value to strengthen the cardiovascular system. Elderberry has the highest amount of anthocyanidins demonstrating that it has the potential to help in the enhancement of heart health. First of all, it is effective in reducing cholesterol levels, which plays an important role in avoiding plaque formation in the arteries and the occurrence of heart diseases.

Second, elderberry has been detected to stimulate endothelial function. Endothelial is a one-cell layer of tissue and is a vital component of the blood vessels’ walls and heart; it plays a crucial role in the blood vessels’ health and regulation of blood circulation. Therefore, since elderberry has the capacity to enhance endothelial function it plays an important role in sustaining cardiovascular health and decreasing vulnerability to cardiovascular; diseases.

Supports Respiratory Health

Respiratory health is also on the list of Elderberry health benefits. Bronchitis and sinusitis are some of the respiratory infections whose symptoms have been proven to be relieved by taking this remedy. The dynamic contribution of elderberry’s antiviral potential and anti-inflammatory effect is observed here.

Studies have proved that elderberry shortens the duration of the above respiratory diseases and decreases their severity manifest in symptoms. This means that elderberry natural remedy is very useful for boosting the respiratory system at times when infection rates are high in this area, enabling faster improvement.

Safety and Dosage Considerations

If you want to take elderberry supplements daily, be aware of a few foods to avoid, even though elderberries are generally safe. Furthermore, raw elderberries can be toxic. Only eat cooked elderberries or trusted supplements.

The dosage can also depend on the forms of elderberry, such as capsules, gummies, syrups, or teas. Regarding elderberry supplements, the dose is usually 300-500mg extracted once or twice daily. As “The Botanical Institute” suggests elderberry dosing mostly depends on the form used. For syrup, adults can take 2 teaspoons up to 4 times daily, while children take 1 teaspoon. For expressed juice, it's 1 glass twice daily. Elderberry tea can be consumed several times a day based on age. However, for slight variations, it is advisable to go with the instructions on the product label or even a health professional.

The Elderberry also interacts with certain drugs, including immunosuppressive, chemotherapeutic, or diuretic drugs. If the person is already on prescription medication, then it becomes essential to discuss the possibility of Elderberry interacting with the medicine that the person is already using.

In the same capacity, a few people distinguish themselves from consuming elder, especially if they are pregnant or breastfeeding since there is little knowledge regarding safety in these periods in the public domain.

When to Take Elderberry?

Now, let's tackle the million-dollar question: is elderberry safe to be consumed on a daily basis or is it only meant to be consumed during certain occasions? The subject of the matter has mixed opinions, which may suggest that elderberry could be taken daily or used in moderation, but for presenting symptoms of illness.

The proponents of daily elderberry consumption believe that with the antioxidant effect of elderberries on the body, daily intake may continue to shower the necessary support on the body’s immune system, especially during periods of fighting stress or pathogen invasions. Still, they generally advise users to have a break from the use of supplements after several months.

There are also some health concerns, for instance, long-term daily use, or high doses, for which there is not enough data on the impacts to the human body.

Finally, it is up to an individual whether to take elderberry daily or just occasionally, and it depends on whether it is beneficial for one’s health, and what one’s doctor said.

Elderberry Supplements vs. Natural Source

Apart from fresh elderberry or natural products by taking fruits, juices, or teas. you can also choose to use supplements. Indeed, both forms and types have advantages and disadvantages that you must take into account.

• Concentration: Supplements offer a concentrated dose of elderberry extract, ensuring a consistent amount of active ingredients per serving. Natural sources like berries or juices can vary in potency depending on factors like ripeness and processing.
• Convenience: Supplements are convenient and easy to take on-the-go. Natural sources like berries require preparation (cooking for safety!) and may not be as portable.
• Holistic approach: Natural sources like elderberries (cooked!), juices, and syrups provide a wider range of nutrients beyond just the concentrated extract found in supplements.
• Taste: Supplements can sometimes have a bitter taste, while natural sources like cooked elderberries can be incorporated into recipes or enjoyed in syrups with added flavors.
• Cost: The cost of elderberry supplements can vary depending on the brand and quality. Natural sources, like buying elderberries in season, maybe a more cost-effective option.

Although elderberry is known to pose little risk for most people, it is always recommended that one speaks to a medical practitioner on whether it is safe to use it or not because of some other underlying conditions or when on some form of medication.

It is highly recommended to consult with your doctor or a registered naturopathic doctor as they are able to give advice according to one's conditions. They can also advise on how long you should use and the dosage that is recommended for you besides recommending better alternatives in case there are risks of interaction and or side effects.