This Is What Happens When You Take Elderberry Every Day

Doctors and herbalists alike confess the power found in the deep purple elderberry. According to Everyday Health, Hippocrates gave tribute to elderberry as "his medicine chest." Similarly, the Indigenous people of North America harnessed its properties as a cure for ailments. The uses of elderberry leaves, roots, bark, and fruit have now been modernized to our benefit. But can it be taken safely every day?

Elderberry's genesis is from the plant Sambucus nigra, which produces the dark fruit. The flesh of the berries, however, is poisonous if eaten raw. Berries are often cooked and made into wines, jams, syrups, or pie fillings. According to Everyday Health, its native elements are anthocyanins, which are "powerful plant pigments that reduce inflammation and have antiviral properties." To this cause, elderberry has, for centuries, been used as a healing agent against infections, inflammation, and may help fight cancer (via The Grow Network).

Elderberry is well-known among grandma's remedies to shorten the duration of the flu or a cold, and also tackle respiratory symptoms. Women's Health concurs that this sweet berry also works to improve blood sugar levels and circulation, and has been shown to soothe pain. With its high-fiber properties and wealth of vitamin C, elderberry teas and syrups are helpful in treating constipation (via Healthline).

Can a form of elderberry be taken every day? Of course — but only in moderation. Taking elderberry strengthens immune function and protects the body from infection by preventing viruses from invading cells, according to Norm's Farms, which is most helpful during the winter months. When taken by syrup, elderberry is in its most powerful form. It fills the body with antioxidants to fight off free radicals from the environment. "If you are interested in adding elderberry to your diet for its immune system boosting properties, a teaspoon of homemade elderberry syrup per day is a conservative recommended daily serving," recommends Norm's Farm.

When using elderberry, be sure your intake is aligned with suggested doses. Possible side effects of overuse can result in stomach troubles, writes Healthline. Poisoning is a risk when berries are uncooked. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are also possible if used in excess or taken with certain medications, so it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking elderberry.

Although the raw berries themselves are poisonous, the syrups, teas, capsules, and gummies made from elderberry can offer a host of benefits. For those with serious health concerns, taking extensive treatments, or are on medications, it is best to research possible risks and benefits before speaking with a professional before adapting elderberry into your regimen.