Elder flowers, also called European elder, have a long history of use in traditional German medicine. They have antioxidant properties and an antiviral effect, which is why they're still popularly used to help fight off colds and flu. Elder flowers can be brewed as an herbal tea.
COMMON NAME Standardized: European elder Other: black elder
BOTANICAL NAME: Sambucus nigra Plant Family: Caprifoliaceae
INTRODUCTION
European elderflower is a plant native to Europe, Northern Africa, and Western-and Central Asia. Its flowers and berries have a long history of use in traditional European medicine. Elder berries have also been used for making preserves, wines, winter cordials, and for adding flavor and color to other wines.
CONSTITUENTS Potassium nitrate, sambucin, sambunigrin, sugars. The complex sugars of the berries are the immune-active fraction.
PARTS USED Flowers
HEALTH BENEFITS OF ELDER FLOWERS
Elder flowers contain flavonoids (including routine), tannins, organic acids, steroids, triterpenes and vitamins.
Thanks to the presence of active compounds, elder flowers:
- support the body's natural immunity,
- help clear the sinuses and upper respiratory tract,
- gently stimulate the intestines,
- diuretic and diaphoretic,
- positively affect the skin and mucous membranes.
DOSAGE AND DIRECTIONS FOR USE
Elder flower tea:
1 tablespoon of dry flower pour 1 cup boiling water and brew under cover for 10-15 minutes. Strain. Drink a glass of warm infusion 2-3 times a day.
Decoction
2 tablespoons dry flower put in a small pot and pour a glass of water. Bring to a boil and cook for 3 minutes under cover. Let stand for 15 minutes, then strain. Consume 2-3 times a day for half a glass.
It is not recommended to drink infusions and decoctions of elder flowers for more than a week.
An infusion and decoction of elder can be used to rinse the throat and mouth in inflammation, as well as for washing capillaries, oily and combination skin and for washing eyes affected by conjunctivitis.
PRECAUTIONS Specific: No known precautions.
General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
