Can You Take Elderberry During Pregnancy?

 Lyndsay Hall Profile Photo
By Lyndsay Hall | Updated on Dec 8, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Elderberry During Pregnancy?

It’s not recommended for pregnant people to consume elderberry either as an herbal supplement or in its raw form.

Elderberry has been praised throughout the years for having antioxidant-rich properties that may reduce inflammation and support heart health. It’s important to know, though, that medical opinions vary as to whether or not it’s truly effective at achieving these results.

If consumed in raw form, elderberries and the flowers from their plants have the potential to cause some not so desirable digestive symptoms1 , including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is because certain parts of the plant actually contain a toxin. For this reason, it’s best to steer clear of elderberry during pregnancy.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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  1. Dorian Smith-Garcia"Is It Safe to Take Elderberry While Pregnant?"Nov 18, 2020https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/elderberry-pregnant#the-bottom-line.


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Lyndsay Hall
Updated on Dec 8, 2023

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Can You Take Elderberry During Pregnancy?

 Lyndsay Hall Profile Photo
By Lyndsay Hall | Updated on Dec 8, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Elderberry During Pregnancy?

It’s not recommended for pregnant people to consume elderberry either as an herbal supplement or in its raw form.

Elderberry has been praised throughout the years for having antioxidant-rich properties that may reduce inflammation and support heart health. It’s important to know, though, that medical opinions vary as to whether or not it’s truly effective at achieving these results.

If consumed in raw form, elderberries and the flowers from their plants have the potential to cause some not so desirable digestive symptoms1 , including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is because certain parts of the plant actually contain a toxin. For this reason, it’s best to steer clear of elderberry during pregnancy.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. Dorian Smith-Garcia"Is It Safe to Take Elderberry While Pregnant?"Nov 18, 2020https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/elderberry-pregnant#the-bottom-line.


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