Black Elderberry Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Gaia Herbs
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Black Elderberry against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
Black Elderberry is a dietary supplement by Gaia Herbs with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for colds, flu (influenza), other respiratory infections.Based on those ingredients, 247 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Acerola (Malpighia glabra) fruit extract, organic Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Black Elderberry by Gaia Herbs
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AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Black Elderberry by Gaia Herbs
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry is a 2-ingredient formula. The main active ingredient is organic black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract; the second is acerola fruit extract, which is a natural source of vitamin C.
Both are present as concentrated extracts in a vegan capsule, with acacia gum as an inactive ingredient to help with absorption and flow.
Does it work?
Not established
The evidence we hold doesn't yet establish that black elderberry works for any condition—the data rates it insufficient evidence for hay fever, heart disease, fatigue, lung disease, brain function, and respiratory infections. Acerola fares slightly better: vitamin C deficiency is rated possibly effective, but acerola's other uses—atherosclerosis, common cold, and diarrhea—lack reliable evidence in our data.
If you're considering this product for a specific reason, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether the research supports it for your goal.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Properly prepared elderberry extracts (made from ripe fruit, like this product) are generally well tolerated. Raw or unripe berries, seeds, leaves, and bark contain compounds that can cause nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhea, weakness, dizziness, and dizziness when eaten raw—cooking eliminates this risk, and commercial extracts don't have it.
In rare cases, elderberry has been reported to trigger nausea and vomiting when combined with echinacea, and one case report linked long-term elderberry use to autoimmune hepatitis (liver inflammation) in someone with existing autoimmune disease, though this is not common. Acerola at food or supplement label amounts is generally considered safe; large doses of vitamin C can cause osmotic diarrhea and stomach upset above 2,000 mg per day.
Because elderberry safety data during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not reliable, it's best to avoid this product if you're pregnant or nursing.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you take immunosuppressants (Moderate severity), pazopanib or other cancer drugs including alkylating agents and antitumor antibiotics (Moderate severity), estrogen-based contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, aspirin, aluminum antacids, or warfarin. No interactions are documented for the inactive ingredients in our data.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry may interest you if you're looking for immune support with traditional herbs, but the evidence for specific benefits isn't yet established in our data. The main caution is if you take immunosuppressants, cancer drugs (especially pazopanib, alkylating agents, or antitumor antibiotics), or estrogen-based contraceptives or hormone therapy—you should check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding this product.
Pregnant or breastfeeding? Avoid it until you've talked it over with your healthcare provider.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jul 21, 2022.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Black Elderberry, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Gaia Herbs |
|---|---|
| Net contents | 30 Vegan Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jul 21, 2022 |
| DSLD ID | 270973 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating), Gluten Free |
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.
Supplement Facts
The label details for Black Elderberry by Gaia Herbs, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| organic Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract | 158 mg | -- |
| Acerola (Malpighia glabra) fruit extract | 550 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Acacia Gum, vegan Capsule
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation
New look same formula
Immune support An immune season essential to help maintain well-being
Vegan
Gluten-free Soy-free
Formula
Black Elderberry with acerola fruit
Each 2 capsules contain 10,112 mg of black elderberry fresh herb equivalent
FDA Statement of Identity
Herbal Supplement
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Use Adults take 1 capsule 2 times daily between meals. For additional support take 2 capsules 2 times daily.
Precautions
Not for use during pregnancy or lactation. If you have a medical condition or take medications, please consult with your doctor before use.
Store away from children.
Use only as directed on label. Safety-sealed for your protection.
Storage
Keep bottle capped at all times and store in a cool, dry place.
Seals/Symbols
Integrity Purity Potency EST 1987 USA
Certified B Corporation
General Statements
meetyourherbs.com Gaia Herbs delivers unprecedented traceability by screening every product and sharing the results online. See for yourself, and learn more about your herbs, by entering the unique ID # below at meetyourherbs.com
Purity - Keep it clean All products are screened for pesticides, microbes & heavy metals. Integrity - Keep it real See the proof at meetyourherbs.com, the world's first herb traceability platform. Potency - Keep it strong Concentrated plant extracts are delivered in our patented Phyto-Caps technology. Discover our guiding truths at: Facebook Instagram @gaiaherbs
Brand IP Statement(s)
Gaia Herbs Connecting plants & people since 1987
FDA Disclaimer Statement
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Black Elderberry by Gaia Herbs label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in Black Elderberry by Gaia Herbs
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container15 Amounts shown are per serving.
Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.
Organic Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract
Interacts with121 drugs
Elderberry is a popular herbal supplement, mainly taken to help with colds and flu. Some small studies suggest it may modestly shorten cold or flu sym...
Organic Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract monograph & interactionsAcerola (Malpighia glabra) fruit extract
Interacts with128 drugs
Acerola is a small tropical fruit prized for its very high natural vitamin C content, and it is mostly used as a food-based source of vitamin C and an...
Acerola (Malpighia glabra) fruit extract monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Acacia Gum, Vegan Capsule. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Black Elderberry by Gaia Herbs Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry contains two active ingredients—elderberry fruit extract and acerola (a source of vitamin C)—and together they interact with 247 individual medications across several categories.
The most serious concern is with immunosuppressants (drugs that tamp down your immune system after organ transplant or for autoimmune conditions); elderberry's immune-boosting activity may theoretically interfere with how well these drugs work, and the interaction is rated Moderate severity.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Each ingredient brings additional interactions. Elderberry also carries a Moderate-severity concern with pazopanib, a cancer drug—one case report documented severe nausea, loose stools, and liver injury in a patient taking both.
Acerola's vitamin C content poses Moderate-severity risks with two classes of chemotherapy: alkylating agents and antitumor antibiotics, because antioxidants may theoretically blunt their cancer-fighting effect. It also carries Minor-severity interactions with estrogens (oral contraceptives and hormone therapy—vitamin C can raise estrogen levels), aspirin, aluminum-containing antacids, and warfarin (a blood thinner), though acerola's actual vitamin C dose is likely too low to cause real problems with the last three.
If you take any of those drug types—especially immunosuppressants, pazopanib, or chemotherapy—check your exact medications with the tool below before starting this product. Your own doctor or pharmacist can tell you whether it's safe for you to use.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Black Elderberry?
Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.
Go to the checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Black Elderberry interact with 247 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in Black Elderberry interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Acerola (Malpighia glabra) fruit extract organic Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetylsalicylic AcidEntrophen
How Acetylsalicylic Acid interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Acetylsalicylic Acid interactionAlginic Acid, Aluminum HydroxideRafton
How Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interactionAluminum Acetate, Benzethonium ChlorideBuro-Sol Otic Solution
How Aluminum Acetate, Benzethonium Chloride interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum Acetate, Benzethonium Chloride interactionAluminum ChlorideAluminum Chloride, Anhydrol Forte, Driclor, Drysol
How Aluminum Chloride interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum Chloride interactionAluminum HydroxideAlu-Cap, Amphojel, Gaviscon
How Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin, Aluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum, Aspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug)Maalox, Mucogel
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug)Mylanta
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug) interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug) interactionAluminum, CalciumDomeboro
How Aluminum, Calcium interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum, Calcium interactionAluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug)Almagel
How Aluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug) interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug) interactionAluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug)Wingel
How Aluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interactionAspirinAngettes 75, ASA, Asaphen, Aspirin, Caprin, Cartia +8 more
How Aspirin interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin interactionAspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #3
How Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin, Aluminum Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAspirin, ButalbitalAxotal
How Aspirin, Butalbital interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Butalbital interactionAspirin, Butalbital, CaffeineFiorinal
How Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine PhosphateFiorinal w/ Codeine
How Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interactionAspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, PhenacetinMarnal
How Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Phenacetin interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Phenacetin interactionAspirin, CaffeineAnacin
How Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAspirin, Caffeine, Codeine PhosphateAnacin w/ Codeine
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interactionAspirin, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine BitartrateSynalgos DC
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine Bitartrate interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine Bitartrate interactionAspirin, Caffeine, Dover's PwdAcedoval, Dovacet
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Dover's Pwd interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Dover's Pwd interactionAspirin, Caffeine, HydrocodoneDamason-P
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Hydrocodone interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Hydrocodone interactionAspirin, Caffeine, Isobutylallylbarbituric Acid, PhenacetinLanorinal
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Isobutylallylbarbituric Acid, Phenacetin interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Isobutylallylbarbituric Acid, Phenacetin interactionAspirin, Caffeine, OrphenadrineInvagesic, Invagesic Forte, Norgesic, Norgesic Forte, Orphengesic, Orphengesic Forte
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Orphenadrine interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Orphenadrine interactionAspirin, Caffeine, Phenacetin, PropoxypheneMargesic Comp. 65
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Phenacetin, Propoxyphene interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Phenacetin, Propoxyphene interactionAspirin, Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Carbonate, Magnesium OxideBufferin
How Aspirin, Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Carbonate, Magnesium Oxide interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Carbonate, Magnesium Oxide interactionAspirin, CarisoprodolSoma Compound
How Aspirin, Carisoprodol interacts with Black Elderberry — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit ExtractAspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Read the full Acerola (malpighia Glabra) Fruit Extract + Aspirin, Carisoprodol interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Black Elderberry with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
Acerola (Malpighia glabra) fruit extract
Alkylating Agents
Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of acerola might reduce the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
Acerola contains vitamin C, an antioxidant. There is concern that antioxidants might reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals, such as alkylating agents. In contrast, other researchers theorize that antioxidants might make alkylating chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on chemotherapy.
Antitumor Antibiotics
Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of acerola might reduce the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
Acerola contains vitamin C, an antioxidant. There is concern that antioxidants might reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals, such as antitumor antibiotics. In contrast, other researchers theorize that antioxidants might make antitumor antibiotic chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effects, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on antitumor antibiotic chemotherapy.
Aluminum
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with aluminum salts might increase the amount of aluminum absorbed.
Acerola contains vitamin C. It is thought that vitamin C chelates aluminum, keeping it in solution and available for absorption. In people with normal renal function, urinary excretion of aluminum likely increases, making aluminum retention and toxicity unlikely. However, patients with renal failure who take aluminum-containing compounds, such as phosphate binders, should avoid acerola in doses that provide more vitamin C than the recommended dietary allowances.
Aspirin
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the clearance of aspirin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Acerola contains vitamin C. It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C can decrease the urinary excretion of salicylates, increasing plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams daily of vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion. The vitamin C content of acerola is typically about 2000 mg per 100 grams. Thus, a clinically significant interaction between acerola and aspirin is unlikely.
Estrogens
Theoretically, concomitant use of acerola with estrogens might increase estrogenic effects.
Acerola contains vitamin C. Increases in plasma estrogen levels of up to 55% have occurred under some circumstances when vitamin C is taken concurrently with oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, including topical products. It is suggested that vitamin C prevents oxidation of estrogen in the tissues, regenerates oxidized estrogen, and reduces sulfate conjugation of estrogen in the gut wall. When tissue levels of vitamin C are high, these processes are already maximized and supplemental vitamin C does not have any effect on estrogen levels. However, increases in plasma estrogen levels may occur when women who are deficient in vitamin C take supplements.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, acerola might reduce the effectiveness of warfarin; however, its vitamin C content is likely too low to produce clinically significant effects.
Acerola contains vitamin C. High doses of vitamin C may reduce the response to warfarin, possibly by causing diarrhea and reducing warfarin absorption. This occurred in two people who took up to 16 grams daily of vitamin C, and resulted in decreased prothrombin time. Lower doses of 5-10 grams daily of vitamin C can also reduce warfarin absorption, but this does not seem to be clinically significant. The vitamin C content of acerola is typically about 2000 mg per 100 grams. Thus, a clinically significant interaction between acerola and warfarin is unlikely.
organic Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit extract
Immunosuppressants
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Elderberry has immunostimulant activity, increasing the production of cytokines, including interleukin and tumor necrosis factor.
Pazopanib (Votrient)
Theoretically, elderberry might interact with pazopanib, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Black Elderberry, from the product label.
Gaia Herbs
See all Gaia Herbs products- Name
- Gaia Herbs, Inc.
- Street Address
- 101 Gaia Herbs Drive
- City
- Brevard
- State
- NC
- ZipCode
- 28712
- Web Address
- www.gaiaherbs.com
Black Elderberry by Gaia Herbs: Common Questions
Does Black Elderberry by Gaia Herbs interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Is this safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
What's acerola, and why is it in here?
Can I use this if I'm on an immunosuppressant (like after a transplant)?
Will this help me fight off a cold?
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Are there any fillers or other junk in here?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Black Elderberry’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Elderberry
Interacts with 121 drugsElderberry is a popular herbal supplement, mainly taken to help with colds and flu. Some small studies suggest it may modestly shorten cold or flu symptoms, but the evidence is limited and n...
Read the full Elderberry monograph → Herb & supplement monographAcerola
Interacts with 128 drugsAcerola is a small tropical fruit prized for its very high natural vitamin C content, and it is mostly used as a food-based source of vitamin C and antioxidants. While vitamin C itself has w...
Read the full Acerola monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Black Elderberry's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
The 26 references behind this product’s interaction data
Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.
Elderberry 6 references
- Barak V, Halperin T, Kalickman I. The effect of Sambucol, a black elderberry-based, natural product, on the production of human cytokines: I. Inflammatory cytokines. Eur Cytokine Netw 2001;12:290-6..
- Elderberry (Sambucus species). The Poison Plant Patch, Novia Scotia Museum, 2007. Available at: http://museum.gov.ns.ca/poison/?section=species&id=117 (Accessed 16 October 2009).
- European elder. Canadian Poisonous Plants Information System. Available at: http://www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/pp/ppack.jump?p_null=all&p_psn=121&p_type=all&p_sci=comm&p_x=px (Accessed 16 October 2009).
- Raus K, Pleschka S, Klein P, Schoop R, Fisher P. Effect of an echinacea-based hot drink versus oseltamivir in Influenza treatment: a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, multicenter, noninferiority clinical trial. . Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2015;20;77:6 PubMed
- Ramachandran A, Antala D, Pudasainee P, Panginikkod S, Gupta H. A Plausible Association Between the Use of Elderberry and Autoimmune Hepatitis. Cureus 2022;14(4):e24250. PubMed
- Agarwal N, Mangla A. Elderberry interaction with pazopanib in a patient with soft-tissue sarcoma: A case report and literature review. Mol Clin Oncol 2024;20(5):36. PubMed
Acerola 20 references
- Back DJ, Breckenridge AM, MacIver M, et al. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;282:1516.
- Morris JC, Beeley L, Ballantine N. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man [letter]. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;283:503.
- Labriola D, Livingston R. Possible interactions between dietary antioxidants and chemotherapy. Oncology 1999;13:1003-8.
- Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
- Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://www.nap.edu/books/0309069351/html/.
- Rosenthal G. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1971;215:1671. DOI
- Hume R, Johnstone JM, Weyers E. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;219:1479. DOI
- Smith EC, Skalski RJ, Johnson GC, Rossi GV. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;221:1166. DOI
- Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Richart C. Effect of ascorbic acid on gastrointestinal aluminum absorption (letter). Lancet 1991;338:1467.
- Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Corbella J. Influence of some dietary constituents on aluminum absorption and retention in rats. Kidney Int 1991;39:598-601. PubMed
- Partridge NA, Regnier FE, White JL, Hem SL. Influence of dietary constituents on intestinal absorption of aluminum. Kidney Int 1989;35:1413-7. PubMed
- Mc Leod DC, Nahata MC. Inefficacy of ascorbic acid as a urinary acidifier (letter). N Engl J Med 1977;296:1413. DOI
- Hansten PD, Hayton WL. Effect of antacid and ascorbic acid on serum salicylate concentration. J Clin Pharmacol 1980;20:326-31. PubMed
- Vihtamaki T, Parantainen J, Koivisto AM, et al. Oral ascorbic acid increases plasma oestradiol during postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy. Maturitas 2002;42:129-35. PubMed
- Feetam CL, Leach RH, Meynell MJ. Lack of a clinically important interaction between warfarin and ascorbic acid. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1975;31:544-7. PubMed
- Weintraub M, Griner PF. Warfarin and ascorbic acid: lack of evidence for a drug interaction. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1974;28:53-6. PubMed
- Prasad KN. Rationale for using high-dose multiple dietary antioxidants as an adjunct to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. J Nutr 2004;134:3182S-3S. PubMed
- Conklin KA. Cancer chemotherapy and antioxidants. J Nutr 2004;134:3201S-3204S. PubMed
- Denadai R, Souza FM, Valle MR. Fecal impaction by rectal acerola bezoar. Indian J Pediatr 2013;80(5):432-3. PubMed
- Raulf-Heimsoth M, Stark R, Sander I, et al. Anaphylactic reaction to apple juice containing acerola: cross-reactivity to latex due to prohevein. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2002;109(4):715-6. PubMed
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC