Breastfeeding is a unique experience that requires a mother to carefully balance her diet and health considerations. One supplement that has been popular among natural medicine adherents is elderberry, a type of fruit rich in antioxidants and nutrients known to have immunomodulatory and expectorant properties. However, the safety and effectiveness of elderberry during breastfeeding, particularly in terms of its effects on the mother and the infant, are still subjects of debate and research.
Background and History
Elderberries have been traditionally used in various cultures for their health benefits, including the treatment of respiratory infections and immune health. In recent years, there have been reports of elders using elderberry syrup or preparations to alleviate symptoms of the common cold, flu, and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these uses, there are limited scientific studies on elderberry's effects during breastfeeding.
Current Knowledge
Most medical professional organizations and practitioners continue to recommend consulting with a healthcare provider before taking any herbal remedies or supplements, including elderberry, while breastfeeding due to a lack of strong scientific evidence. While the safety of moderate amounts of elderberry in breastfeeding women is generally recognized, there are concerns about adverse effects and potential drug interactions.
Potential Benefits and Risks
Immune Boost
Elderberry has been suggested to enhance the immune system and may provide a general protective effect. Antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamin C present in elderberry are thought to support the immune system. However, the specific impact and necessity for these effects in breastfeeding mothers are not clear.
Risk of Adverse Effects
Severe side effects are exceptionally rare, but there is a theoretical concern about cyanide poisoning if raw elderberries are consumed in high quantities. This concern is based on the high levels of amygdalin, which can release氰化物 if not properly processed. Commercially prepared elderberry products are generally cooked to remove any potential toxicity.
Interaction with Breast Milk
There is insufficient evidence to support the claim that elderberry or its components pass through human breast milk to affect the infant. Still, since no studies have explored this interaction, it is not recommended to use elderberry while breastfeeding without the direct supervision of a healthcare provider.
Interaction with Medications
Certain medications, especially immunosuppressants and chemotherapy drugs, may be inactivated or reduced if taken with elderberry, according to some animal studies and theoretical discussions. Discussing these interactions and their potential implications with a healthcare provider is crucial for mothers on medication.
Conclusion
Given the current state of knowledge and the need for more scientific research on elderberry's effects during breastfeeding, health practitioners and breastfeeding mothers are typically advised to approach elderberry consumption with caution and seek the guidance of a healthcare provider. While the potential benefits are appealing for its immune-boosting and expectorant properties, there are too many uncertainties and potential risks to recommend elderberry for use during breastfeeding unless there are specific concerns or contraindications based on individual health conditions and medication use.
It is essential for each mother to weigh the potential risks and benefits of elderberry against the individual needs and circumstances of her pregnancy and breastfeeding journey. In the absence of scientific evidence or recommendations, there is no harm in avoiding elderberry or any other health supplement during this highly specialized and personal phase of life.
