Is Elderberry safe?
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Safety of Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) for Human Consumption
Introduction to Elderberry Safety
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating respiratory illnesses. With the rise in popularity of natural remedies, elderberry supplements have gained attention for their potential health benefits. However, concerns about its safety, particularly regarding immune system overstimulation, necessitate a closer examination of the available research.
Elderberry and Immune System Overstimulation
One of the primary concerns with elderberry supplementation is the potential for overstimulating the immune system, leading to a "cytokine storm." A systematic review aimed to determine the benefits and harms of elderberry for viral respiratory infections. The review found no evidence linking elderberry to clinical inflammatory outcomes or overstimulation of the immune system. While elderberry may affect inflammatory markers, this effect appears to decline with ongoing supplementation.
Cardiovascular, Liver, and Kidney Safety
A study on postmenopausal women consuming elderberry extract for 12 weeks found no significant changes in cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers or liver and kidney function. This suggests that chronic consumption of elderberry extract is safe for these organs. Additionally, another study on mice indicated that elderberry extract did not cause any pathological changes in the liver, further supporting its safety.
Antiviral Properties and Respiratory Health
Elderberry is reputed for its antiviral properties, particularly against influenza. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that elderberry supplementation significantly reduced upper respiratory symptoms, presenting a safer alternative to antibiotics and prescription drugs for common colds and influenza. Another study confirmed that elderberry syrup effectively relieved influenza symptoms and reduced the need for rescue medication.
Potential Risks and Adulteration
While elderberry is generally considered safe, it contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. Processing methods significantly reduce these harmful compounds, making elderberry products safer for consumption. However, the consistency of the polyphenolic content and the potential for adulteration are factors that need to be considered to ensure the safety and efficacy of elderberry supplements.
Conclusion
Current research suggests that elderberry is generally safe for human consumption, with no evidence of immune system overstimulation or significant adverse effects on cardiovascular, liver, or kidney health. Its antiviral properties make it a beneficial supplement for treating respiratory illnesses. However, attention should be given to the processing and quality of elderberry products to minimize potential risks. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and provide more comprehensive safety data.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic