Elderberry

Patient sheet

The elderberry is a fruit-bearing shrub. Its flowers and berries are harvested for the food industry, but also for their medicinal properties. Elderberries have several components, including vitamins and polyphenols, which make them a good source of antioxidants. The berries are also valued for their possible antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immune system-boosting properties. Elderberry extract products are usually available in the form of syrup, capsules, or throat lozenges.

Other names

• Black elderberry
• Sambucus nigra (European elderberry)
• Sambucus canadensis (American elderberry)
• Black elder

Common uses

• Easing flu symptoms
• Easing cold symptoms
• Stimulate the immune system
• Increase urine flow (diuretic effect)
• Stimulate bowel movements
• Source of antioxidants

This non-exhaustive list presents the most frequent applications.

Recommended doses of natural health products may vary depending on several factors, including which part of the plant is used and the product's form. To avoid confusion regarding dosage, read the information on the product's packaging and seek advice from your health care provider.

Side effects

Commercial elderberry products taken at recommended doses are generally well tolerated, although gastrointestinal issues have occasionally been reported.

Never eat raw elderberries or other parts of the shrub. Cases of severe poisoning have been reported.

This non-exhaustive list presents the most frequent and relevant side effects. If you think you're experiencing side effects, speak to your health care provider.

Warnings

Natural health products are not without risk. They may be incompatible with certain health issues or interact with your medications. Always speak with a health care professional before taking this product, especially in the following cases:

• You're taking prescription or over-the-counter medications
• You're taking medications that suppress your immune system
• You have an autoimmune disease

Always inform your health care providers of your existing health issues, and make sure to mention any medications that you're taking, either on a regular or irregular basis, including non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and natural health products.

If you're taking a medication for a specific health condition, do not attempt to replace it with a natural health product without first consulting a health care professional, such as your doctor or pharmacist.

General notes

Make sure to inform your health care providers if any of the following applies:

• You have allergies (e.g., medication, food)
• You're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or you're breastfeeding
• You use tobacco, cannabis or cannabis derivatives, or recreational drugs

Keeping a list of your current medications with you at all times is strongly recommended. It may come in handy if you need to see a health care professional or call emergency services.

As with medication, store your natural health products out of reach of children and pets, and return unused or expired products to the pharmacy for safe disposal.