Elderberry syrup has become a popular natural remedy for boosting the immune system and fighting off colds and flu. However, like any supplement or medication, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects.
One common concern is whether elderberry syrup can upset your stomach. In this article, we’ll explore the possible causes of stomach discomfort from elderberry syrup and what you can do to prevent it.
So, if you’re considering adding elderberry syrup to your health routine, keep reading to learn more!
Can Elderberry Syrup Upset Your Stomach?
Yes, elderberry syrup can potentially upset your stomach. This is because elderberries contain high amounts of fiber, which can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and upset stomach if consumed in excess. Additionally, consuming uncooked elderberry leaves, stems, or fruit can release cyanide in the body, leading to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
It’s important to note that ripe, cooked elderberry fruit is considered safe to eat in moderation. However, other parts of the plant should be avoided as they contain cyanogenic glycosides that can release cyanide.
If you experience stomach discomfort after taking elderberry syrup, there are a few things you can do to prevent it. First, make sure you’re taking the recommended dosage and not exceeding it. Splitting your dosage throughout the day and taking it with food may also help alleviate any stomach pain.
It’s also important to purchase elderberry syrup from a reputable source and ensure that it’s made from cooked berries rather than uncooked ones. This will help eliminate any potential cyanide content and reduce the risk of stomach discomfort.
What Is Elderberry Syrup?
Elderberry syrup is a natural remedy made from the cooked berries of the elderberry plant. It has been used for centuries as a home remedy for viral illnesses like the common cold and flu. Elderberry syrup is believed to shorten the duration of some illnesses and make them less severe, although research findings have varied.
Elderberry syrup can be purchased pre-made or made at home using fresh or dried elderberries. The berries are cooked down with water and sweetened with honey or sugar to create a thick, sweet syrup. Some recipes also include additional ingredients like ginger or cinnamon for added flavor and potential health benefits.
While elderberry syrup has many potential benefits, it’s important to use caution when consuming it. As mentioned earlier, uncooked elderberries and other parts of the plant can be toxic and cause stomach discomfort. It’s also important to purchase elderberry syrup from a reputable source and ensure that it’s made from cooked berries to reduce the risk of any potential cyanide content.
Benefits Of Elderberry Syrup
Despite the potential for stomach upset, elderberry syrup has many potential health benefits. Elderberries are a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants, such as flavonols, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids. The consumption of elderberries may offer several health benefits, including:
1. Improved Digestive Health: Elderberries are a good source of fiber which can enhance digestion and remedy digestive issues like stomach upset, bloating, gas, and constipation.
2. Boosted Immunity: Elderberry syrup offers antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that are essential to fight ailments and maintain overall health. It is commonly used in alternative medicine to treat conditions such as the common cold and flu.
3. Reduced Inflammation: Elderberry contains anthocyanin which acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory antioxidant. Anthocyanin reduces the damage that oxidative stress can cause when free radicals are metabolized in the body.
4. Constipation Relief: Elderberry was one of the main ingredients used in a clinical trial of possible treatments for constipation. The treatment that included elderberry proved to be an effective laxative.
5. Cold and Flu Relief: Elderberry is much touted in traditional medicine as an effective cold remedy. Various studies have been done on this and have corroborated many of these claims. For example, in a major study of air travelers who experienced cold symptoms during or after their trips, people who used elderberry had marked reductions in both the length and severity of their illnesses.
It’s important to note that while elderberry syrup may offer these potential benefits, it should not be used in place of medication prescribed by your doctor. Additionally, elderberry supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination. Overall, elderberry syrup can potentially provide several health benefits if taken in moderation and with caution.
Possible Side Effects Of Elderberry Syrup
Although elderberry syrup is generally safe when taken as directed, there are some possible side effects to be aware of. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own within a few days.
In rare cases, elderberry syrup can cause more serious side effects such as numbness, severe weakness, dizziness, or confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking elderberry syrup, it’s important to stop using it immediately and seek medical attention.
Another potential risk of consuming elderberry syrup is an allergic reaction. If you have a known allergy to elderberries or any other plant in the same family, it’s best to avoid elderberry syrup altogether. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
It’s also important to note that elderberry syrup may not be suitable for everyone. Children under 12 years of age and individuals with lung conditions should avoid using elderberry syrup unless directed by a healthcare professional.
Causes Of Stomach Discomfort From Elderberry Syrup
There are a few potential causes of stomach discomfort from elderberry syrup. As mentioned before, the high fiber content in elderberries can cause stomach pain and diarrhea if consumed in excess. This is why it’s important to stick to the recommended dosage and not exceed it.
Another potential cause of stomach discomfort is consuming uncooked elderberry leaves, stems, or fruit. These parts of the plant contain cyanogenic glycosides that can release cyanide in the body, leading to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Additionally, some people may be allergic to elderberries and experience an allergic reaction after consuming elderberry syrup. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking elderberry syrup, seek medical attention immediately.
Lastly, some people may simply have a sensitive stomach and experience discomfort after taking elderberry syrup. In this case, it’s important to take the syrup with food and split the dosage throughout the day to help alleviate any stomach pain.
How To Prevent Stomach Upset From Elderberry Syrup
If you want to prevent stomach upset from elderberry syrup, there are a few steps you can take. Firstly, ensure that you’re taking the recommended dosage and not exceeding it. Splitting your dosage throughout the day and taking it with food may also help alleviate any stomach pain.
Secondly, it’s important to purchase elderberry syrup from a reputable source and ensure that it’s made from cooked berries rather than uncooked ones. This will help eliminate any potential cyanide content and reduce the risk of stomach discomfort.
Lastly, if you’re experiencing stomach discomfort after taking elderberry syrup, consider reducing your intake or stopping it altogether. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.
