Elder or Black Elder is a tree which grows in Europe and North America and has much medicinal activity, mainly in the flowers and berries. Traditionally the bark was also used in Europe. Species with red berries are not medicinal.
Elderflower and elderberry have similar active compounds such as Quercetin, anthocyanidins and other flavonoids, which have diaphoretic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory action. The flowers contain high levels of Potassium, whilst the berries are rich in Iron and vitamin C.
Main uses of Elderflower and elderberry include:
Elderflower is commonly found in cordials and is also often combined with Peppermint in traditional herbal remedies for chills and feverish colds. Elderflowers can be purchased loose and made into a tea. Elderberry is available as a syrup, which is made from the extract of the ripe black berries. It can be used in tincture form for children 3 years of age and above. Herb tincture dosage is lower than adult levels - a simple guide for children is one drop per stone of weight.
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