Latin Name: Sambucus nigra
Alternate Names: Tree Of Music, Tree Of Medicine, Sambu, Danewort, Pipe Tree
Family: CAPRIFOLIACEAE
Parts Used: Leaves, flowers.
Properties: Alterative, Antispasmodic, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Expectorant, Laxative, Stimulant.
Internal Uses: Acne, Catarrh, Chills, Colds, Fever, Flu, Gout, Headache, Measles, Obesity, Respiratory Infection, Rheumatism
Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.
A syrup of the berries is used to prevent colds and flu. The berries are a nutrient-rich restorative tonic and given after childbirth to help build the blood. The berries are also used in weight loss programs when taken as juice or capsules.
Topical Uses: Eye Inflammation, Inflammation, Sore Throat
Topical Applications: Flowers make an anti-inflammatory wash, salve or eyewash, and gargle for sorethroat. Also used in cosmetic preparations such as skin wash, toner, lotion and hair rinse.
Culinary uses: Flowers can be battered or fried plain, added to muffins, pancakes and vinegars. Berries made into pie, cobblers, puddings, jam, pastries, ice cream and syrup. Berries can also be made into cordial and wine. Flowers are often made into a non-alcoholic champagne.
Energetics: Bitter, Cool, Dry.
Chemical Constituents: Essential oils, flavonoids, tannins, viburnic acid. Berries are high in vitamin C and beta-carotene, iron and potassium.
Contraindications: Avoid in cases of fluid depletion, as Elder activates the release of fluids. Avoid using red berried Elders, as many of them are poisonous. Cook ripe berries first before consuming them in any quantity. Although elder bark and root are used medicinally, they can be strongly purgative and emetic and are best avoided or used when recommended by a competent health practitioner.
Comments: The name Elder is thought to refer to an old Anglo-Saxon term, ‘aeld’, meaning fire or kindle, as the hollow stems of the elder were blown on a fire to get it started. Many cultures felt this tree was so special that they refused to burn the wood or use it to make furniture, lest it bring bad luck to the household. It was planted by homes to protect the house from lightning, bring prosperity, happy marriage and healthy children, and protect from evil.
The common name Elder also includes the species Sambucus canadensis, which is used interchangeably with Sambucus nigra.