Elder (Sambucus nigra)
Elder is also known as Elderberry, Black Elder or Holunder in German, Sureau in French and Sauco in Spanish.
The conspicuous white flowers we see along roadways at this time of year are likely elderberry. These shrubs or small trees grow along hedgerows, and forest edges especially where their roots can find plenty of water. The flowers and berries are packed with vitamin C and iron as well as quercetin and kaempferol and the flowers can have up to 10 times more of these beneficial flavenoids.
There is a long history in Europe making the flowers and berries into preserves, cordials, wines, teas and syrups. Not only do these taste good when we eat them, they also boost our immune systems and have anti-cancer, anti-diabetes and anti-inflammatory effects.
In addition to using elderberry to treat fevers and induce sweats the Native Americans used the elderberry to dye baskets.
Use the leaves topically to treat bruises, sprains and wounds.
Please note that the uncooked berries, leaves, branches and roots of elderberry contain lectin and some cyanide, which in high amounts can induce vomiting and diarrhea. Use only the flowers and berries and note that cooking removes the cyanide from the berries.
Both flowers and berries are high in antioxidants and have some heart health properties. The tinctures are known to reduce the length and severity of illness due to influenza and may reduce cholesterol in the liver as well. Taking hot elderflower tea reduces inflammation, regulates blood sugars and can be used as an expectorant. Drink a cold infusion of the berries to promote easy elimination.
As a flower essence elderflower is used to lift one's spirits during troubling times, when a person is exhausted and hopeless.
The cold tea of the flower soothes and heals chapped hands.
Elderflower combines well with peppermint in a hot tea as a pick-me-up, while drinking a cold elderflower and yarrow tea relaxes.