Elderberries: whole, organic
Elder flowers: wildcrafted
Sambucus nigra, known as Boor Tree or Black Elder
The Elderberry is a time-honored preventative and treatment for both cold and flu. The berries and flowers are packed with antioxidants (anthocyanins) and vitamins that boost the immune system. Both have been used for medicinal purposes to prevent or treat many diseases, such as arthritis, diabetes, respiratory tract infections, pain neuropathy, headache, arteriosclerosis, and cancer.
The Elderberry has a bitter but tangy flavor with floral notes. Elderberries are used in the food industry to make pie, jams, jellies, syrups, tea, wines, and brandy.
The flowers have a slight musky scent, and can be prepared in a tincture or infused in oil for use in lotions, creams, salves, and balms. They can also be prepared as a tea, alone or in combination with other herbs, such as chamomile or meadowsweet. The flowers can also be used to produce syrups, cordials, and other beverages.