Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)
Elderflower mixed with peppermint is a common treatment for colds and flu.
The delicate taste of elderflower petals make it a popular herb to use in jams, cordials, and wines. Elderflowers soaked in lemon juice and mixed with sugar and water make a delicious summer drink. The flowers have also been used as a dye.
Other names: Black elder, European elder, common elder, bone tree.
Description and the places it grows in
Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It is a small tree with delicate flowers.
Parts used
All parts are used. Flowers are picked spring / summer and dried rapidly.
Uses
Diaphoretic, laxative, antispasmodic, emollient.
Colds and flu: Clears up excessive catarrh and induces sweating. Very useful as ear drops for when the Eustachian tube is blocked.
Hay fever / sinusitis: Reduces the symptoms of these two conditions.
Other uses: Elderflower can sooth sore eyes if used as an eyewash, and it is also used on chilblains in a compress. It has been used to treat cystitis, rheumatism, and bronchitis.
Constituents
Small amount of essential oil, palmitic linoleic, linolenic acids, triterpenes, flavonoids (including rutin) mucilage, sugar, and pectin.
Contraindications
None known.