Why is elderberry use potentially harmful for individuals managing autoimmune disorders like Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?

Answer

It may increase immune activity, worsening conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues.

Elderberry is often sought for its perceived ability to modulate or encourage the body's immune response. For individuals with autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or rheumatoid arthritis (RA)—conditions defined by the immune system mistakenly targeting the body's healthy tissues—stimulating this already overactive system is counterproductive and potentially dangerous. Increasing immune activity could theoretically accelerate the progression of the disease or intensify the severity of symptoms. Therefore, the principle of *primum non nocere* (first, do no harm) strongly advises abstention from elderberry supplements in these specific patient populations without specialist guidance.

Why is elderberry use potentially harmful for individuals managing autoimmune disorders like Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?

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