Elder (Sambucus nigra) is a flowering perennial that can be somewhat of a shape-shifter, depending on where you find it. In the US it is often found growing in damp soil near rivers and lakes and can manifest as a large shrub. If growing in a grassy woodland area as it often does in Europe, Africa and Western Asia, it can grow to be a large tree up to 30 feet tall with a lifespan of 60 years or more. In either case, it is adorned with an abundance of lacy white flowers in summer that after pollination, become tiny purple-black berries in the fall. Elder Berries have a long history of medicinal use, particularly to support the immune system during the occasional cold or flu. Dried Elder Berries can be steeped as a bitter/tart tea or tinctured. Elder Berries are also famously simmered with other herbs and spices and combined with honey to be taken as a delicious syrup.
Common names: Elder, black or blue elder, bore tree, bourtree, common elder, elderberry, elkhorn, sweet elder, English-man’s grape
Precautions: No known precautions for use of dried Elder Berry. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.