Elderberry Syrup for Babies | Mother Rising (2024)

FAQs

Is elderberry syrup safe for babies? ›

Cooked elderberries may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. Raw elderberries are not safe to eat because they contain a natural toxin that can cause serious health problems. Reserve elderberry syrups and extracts for older children.

The following are recommended doses in the case of dosing for homemade elderberry syrup. For daily support: Babies (six months to two years) can take one teaspoon daily. Toddlers and children (two years and up) can take one tablespoon daily.

Because elderberry may stimulate the immune system, it could interfere with medications taken to suppress the immune system. These medications include corticosteroids (prednisone) and medications used to treat autoimmune diseases. People with organ transplants should also avoid elderberry.

Amounts and Dosage

Nevertheless, research has shown that 15 milliliters of elderberry syrup, taken three to five times per day, is sufficient for resolving cold symptoms if taken early enough.

Is elderberry safe for kids? One major issue with elderberry, and a reason why your pediatrician may not recommend it, is the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate herbal supplements, including elderberry products. "When a product is not formally regulated, it's a problem," says Dr. Lee.

Elderberry herbal supplement (L3). is a herb used to shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms. Although it is likely safe to take while breastfeeding, there have been no significant studies showing the effects of Elderberry consumption on breastfeeding infants or milk production.

Conclusions. Elderberry may be a safe option for treating viral respiratory illness, and there is no evidence that it overstimulates the immune system.

Elderberry is not FDA-approved because it's regulated as a supplement, not a drug.

Opinions vary on whether elderberry is helpful, but most doctors believe it's safe to have in small doses. But unripe or uncooked berries or flowers from the plant can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Larger amounts can cause even more serious poisoning.

"Autoimmune diseases" such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other conditions: Elderberry might cause the immune system to become more active. This could increase the symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

Does elderberry work if you are already sick? ›

Limited studies have found that elderberry eases flu symptoms like fever, headache, sore throat, fatigue, cough, and body aches. The benefits seem to be greatest when started within 24 to 48 hours after the symptoms begin. One study found that elderberry could cut the duration of flu symptoms by more than 50%.

May improve cold and flu symptoms

One 2004 study of 60 people with influenza found that those who took 15 mL of elderberry syrup four times per day showed symptom improvement in 2 to 4 days, while the control group took 7 to 8 days to improve ( 10 ).

Because of serious potential risks, elderberry is not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Cooked elderberry seems to be safe, but raw and unripe fruit might cause nausea, vomiting, or severe diarrhea. Children: Elderberry extract is possibly safe in children 5 years of age or older when taken by mouth for up to 3 days.

Elderberry has shown some promise in treating upper respiratory symptoms associated with colds and the flu. It may also have the ability to reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms. However, more studies are needed to confirm the dosage, safety, and efficacy of elderberry supplements.