What is Elder?
WARNING. Cyanide toxicity is possible. Berries (elderberries) must be cooked to prevent nausea or cyanide toxicity.
European elder grows up to 30 feet tall, is native to Europe, but has been naturalized to the Americas. The flowers, leaves, bark and berries have been used to treat many different medical conditions. More studies are needed before elder can be recommended as a medical treatment.
Side Effects
Abdominal cramps, birth defects, blood sugar changes, shortness of breath, convulsions, cyanide poisoning, fast heart beat, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, heartbeat changes, itching, increased bowel movements, increased urination (dehydration), miscarriage, skin rash, stomach upset, vomiting, weakness.
Reactions / Interactions
Antibiotics, anti-inflammatories (like ibuprofen), antioxidants (like vitamin C), blood sugar drugs (like insulin, metformin), caffeine, decongestants (like oxymetazoline (Afrin®)), diuretics (like hydrochlorothiazide, Lasix®), laxatives, some cancer chemotherapies, theophylline, herbs or supplements with similar effects.
What is Elder?
WARNING. Cyanide toxicity is possible. Berries (elderberries) must be cooked to prevent nausea or cyanide toxicity.
European elder grows up to 30 feet tall, is native to Europe, but has been naturalized to the Americas. The flowers, leaves, bark and berries have been used to treat many different medical conditions. More studies are needed before elder can be recommended as a medical treatment.
Side Effects
Abdominal cramps, birth defects, blood sugar changes, shortness of breath, convulsions, cyanide poisoning, fast heart beat, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, heartbeat changes, itching, increased bowel movements, increased urination (dehydration), miscarriage, skin rash, stomach upset, vomiting, weakness.
Reactions / Interactions
Antibiotics, anti-inflammatories (like ibuprofen), antioxidants (like vitamin C), blood sugar drugs (like insulin, metformin), caffeine, decongestants (like oxymetazoline (Afrin®)), diuretics (like hydrochlorothiazide, Lasix®), laxatives, some cancer chemotherapies, theophylline, herbs or supplements with similar effects.
Safety
WARNING: cyanide toxicity is possible. Avoid if allergic to elder or to plants related to honeysuckle. Some reports of allergies from contact with fresh elder stems. Use caution with diabetes, high blood pressure or urinary problems, or with drugs used for any of these conditions. Use caution with anti-inflammatories and diuretics ("water pills" for high blood pressure), laxatives. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Dosage
Adults (18 years and older)
Tea, extract, syrup, capsules, juice and hand cream is available. Sinupret tablets combine elder with several other herbs and is used for sinusitis.
Children (younger than 18 years)
Use cautiously in children.
Evidence
Condition: Bacterial sinusitis Grade: C
Condition: Bronchitis Grade: C
Condition: Flu (influenza) Grade: C
Disclaimer: These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
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