No authors listed
In: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US), 2006–2018
Abstract
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit contains flavonoids such as quercetin, and anthocyanidins. The bark, leaves and root contain sambunigrin, which is potentially toxic because it can release cyanide. Cooked berries do not carry this risk.[1] Elderberry is most often used for influenza and immune stimulation. It has no specific lactation-related uses. No data exist on the excretion of any components of elderberry into breastmilk or on the safety and efficacy of elderberry in nursing mothers or infants. Elderberry preparations have rarely caused allergic reactions. No recommendations can be made on the use of medicinal doses of elderberry products during breastfeeding. Dietary supplements do not require extensive pre-marketing approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Manufacturers are responsible to ensure the safety, but do not need to prove the safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements before they are marketed. Dietary supplements may contain multiple ingredients, and differences are often found between labeled and actual ingredients or their amounts. A manufacturer may contract with an independent organization to verify the quality of a product or its ingredients, but that does not certify the safety or effectiveness of a product. Because of the above issues, clinical testing results on one product may not be applicable to other products. More detailed information about dietary supplements is available elsewhere on the LactMed Web site.
| PMID: | 30000895 |
|---|---|
| PMBID: | NBK501835 |