Herb library

Elderberry

Sambucus nigra

Elderberry, Sambucus nigra, is a familiar household remedy used as a warming, soothing preparation for occasional seasonal sniffles and low energy. Its dark berries and fragrant flowers have long been made into teas, syrups, and steam baths in home kitchens.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally used as a warm syrup or tea to soothe the throat and support comfort during common seasonal sniffles.
• •Traditionally used as a gentle diaphoretic, a long-standing household remedy to encourage a sweat during low-grade illness and help one rest more comfortably.
• •Traditionally used as a cooling floral infusion from the elderflowers, made for nervous tension or to freshen a room as a steam or facial inhalation.

Simple preparations.

• •Elderberry syrup, kitchen style: simmer 1 cup dried or 2 cups fresh ripe elderberries with 3 cups water, gently simmer 20 to 30 minutes until reduced by about half. Strain, discard solids, stir in 1 cup honey (do not give to children under one year) or maple syrup once cooled, store in the fridge up to 3 weeks.
• •Elderflower tea or infusion: pour 1 cup just-boiled water over 1 tablespoon dried elderflowers, steep 10 to 15 minutes covered, strain and sip warm. For a facial steam, add 2 to 3 tablespoons dried flowers to a bowl of hot water, place a towel over your head and inhale steam for 5 to 10 minutes.
• •Warm compress or steam: make a strong tea from 2 tablespoons dried elderberries per 2 cups water, simmer 15 minutes, strain. Use warm (not hot) as a chest compress, or inhale the steam briefly to ease nasal congestion.

Cautions.

• !Raw elderberries, leaves, stems, and unripe berries contain substances that can cause mild upset if eaten raw; always cook berries and remove all green parts before use.
• !Avoid using elderflower or berry preparations if you have a known allergy to members of the Adoxaceae family or experience pollen-related sensitivities; stop use if you have a rash or breathing difficulty.
• !Honey should not be given to infants under one year; adjust syrups accordingly for young children.
• !If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a chronic medical condition, or take prescription medication, check with your doctor before using elderberry preparations.

Often kept beside.