Elder, black elder, European elder
Elder has been used for herbal remedies in the United Kingdom for centuries. Today, it is the fruit which are mostly used to make jam, jelly and wine, and the flowers to make cordial.
Elder is a small tree with pale grey bark and serrated leaflets arranged in an opposite pattern on leaves. The charming star-shaped white flowers give rise to dark purple fruit (drupes). Whilst the flowers and fruit are pleasantly fragrant, the stems possess a foul odour and may account for the association of this tree with superstition.
Species information
Distribution: Europe, Mediterranean
Habitat: Temperate, sunny, well-drained soils.
Form: Tree
Scientific name: Sambucus nigra L. (Caprifoliaceae)
Elder flower and elder berry teas were once a popular remedy for coughs and cold infections, bronchitis and fever. Laboratory investigations have shown that elder flowers possess anti-inflammatory properties. Clinical studies have confirmed that elder helps to treat flu. The juice of the elderberries is claimed to be an effective treatment for inflamed eyes.
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