Elderberry: Benefits, Safety, and Considerations for Liver Health

Elderberry, known for its range of potential health benefits, comes with specific cautions regarding its consumption. This article explores the safety of elderberry for liver health, its proper use, and potential health improvements.

Understanding Elderberry and Its Impact on the Liver

Elderberry, particularly in its raw form, can pose risks if consumed in large quantities. The berries and other parts of the elderberry plant contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when metabolized (Birrer, 2021). This cyanide can be toxic and potentially harmful to the liver and other organs if ingested improperly. However, when elderberry is properly cooked or processed, such as in syrups or supplements, it is generally considered safe and may even have health benefits, including immune support (Compostella, 2020).

Daily Dosage and Safety Precautions

While elderberry supplementation is generally safe, it is important to adhere to recommended dosages. You can take elderberry supplements daily, even up to three to four times a day, as long as you do not exceed the recommended daily dose. The use of elderberry is a medicinal practice widely employed to treat various ailments (Compostella, 2020).

Long-term supplementation of elderberries promotes hyperlipidemia but reduces liver inflammation and improves HDL function and atherosclerotic plaque stability in apolipoprotein E-knockout mice (Macaluso, 2015). However, elderberry is not recommended for children, pregnant women, or nursing mothers. While no adverse events have been reported in these groups, there is not enough data to determine if it is safe over the long term. It is always better to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplement into your diet (Compostella, 2020).

Elderberry: Nutritional and Health Benefits

Elderberry is a nutritious low-calorie food rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants in the form of phenolic acids, flavonols, and anthocyanins (Birrer, 2021). The flowers are particularly rich in flavonols. Elderberry extract has been found to help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms caused by influenza viruses, though further large-scale human studies are needed (Compostella, 2020).

Elderberry has many additional health benefits, such as fighting cancer and bacteria, immune support, UV protection, and diuretic effects. However, the evidence for these claims is limited, and more research is required (Birrer, 2021).

Heart Health and Elderberry

Another study in mice with high cholesterol found that a diet including black elderberry reduced the amount of cholesterol in the liver and aorta, but not in the blood (Macaluso, 2015). Elderberry has benefits for heart health, such as reducing cholesterol, uric acid, and blood sugar levels. However, further research is necessary to confirm similar effects in humans (Birrer, 2021).

It is essential to note that the uncooked berries, leaves, bark, and roots of the elderberry plant contain the chemicals lectin and cyanide, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (Birrer, 2021). Proper cooking and processing of the berries and seeds remove these harmful substances.

Conclusion: Elderberry can be a beneficial addition to your diet, but it is crucial to consume it in a prepared form like syrups or supplements and to adhere to recommended dosages. Individuals with liver concerns or pregnant women and nursing mothers should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating elderberry into their diet.