Elder Flower (Whole)

Elder is a flowering perennial shrub with a long history of use ranging from its healthful properties to using the hollowed stems, resembling a pipe, for blowing up a fire. Sambucus nigra & S. ebulus flowers are a pure diaphoretic and are most commonly infused as elder flower tea or included in herbal infusion blends. Elder flowers have historically been infused into ales, cordials, vinegars, and water. Cosmetic recipes have also been known to include elderflower as an ingredient.

Elder is a plant native to most of Europe, North America, and southwest 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. Most commonly, the flowers or berries of elder are employed for their healthful benefits. The dried fruits are less bitter than the fresh. Although the branches and leaves are poisonous, the small stem which is sometimes left on the berry is safe. Elder used to be a member of the Caprifoliaceae family, was moved into the Adoxaceae family, and was most recently classified in the Viburnaceae family.

Elder berries support immune health.*