Caution Therefore, never eat raw elderberries raw

Healthy elderberries should not be eaten raw

Although black elderberry is extremely healthy, you should never consume the berries raw. Because they contain the toxin sambunigrin, which can lead to health problems such as severe indigestion.

Elderberries are true vitamin bombs

The berries of black elderberry contain not only a lot of potassium and magnesium but also B vitamins and vitamin C. Together with other valuable ingredients such as flavonoids they support important functions in the body. In addition, they ensure a balanced mineral balance and contribute to the strengthening of the immune system. Even as a home remedy for iron deficiency elderberry is recommended.

Elderberry is healthy. Among other things, the berries contain valuable vitamins and minerals. However, elderberries may not be eaten raw. (Image: romankrykh / fotolia.com)

Dangerous toxin

But raw elderberries also contain the toxin sambunigrin. This can lead to severe indigestion such as vomiting, diarrhea and chills.

"Elderberries need to be heated to over 80 degrees Celsius for a short time in order to neutralize the sambunigrin and other nonthreatening substances," explains Susanne Moritz, nutrition expert of the Bavarian consumer center in a statement.

Especially much of the toxin is found in immature fruits. That's why elderberries should not be harvested until they are fully matured. This can be recognized by the fact that red juice comes out and there are no more green spots inside.

"Mature fruits contain less sambunigrin, but should not be consumed raw," says Moritz. (Ad)