Common Name

Standardized: European elder
Other: black elder

Botanical Name

Sambucus nigra L.
Plant Family: Caprifoliaceae

Overview

Introduction

European elder is a plant native to Europe, Northern Africa, and Western-and Central Asia. Its flowers and berries have a long history of use in traditional European medicine. Elder berries have also been used for making preserves, wines, winter cordials, and for adding flavor and color to other wines.

Constituents

Potassium nitrate, sambucin, sambunigrin, sugars. The complex sugars of the berries are the immune-active fraction.

Parts Used

Most commonly the flowers or berries. Dried fruits are less bitter than fresh.

The branches and leaves are poisonous. The small stem which is sometimes left on the berry is safe.

Typical Preparations

Teas, tinctures, encapsulations, syrups, wine, cordials, and even ketchup, often combined with propolis or echinacea.

*Michael McGuffin, ed., American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook, (New York: CRC Press, 1997)

Precautions

Specific: The raw fruit contains a component sambungin which may cause vomiting and severe diarrhea if ingested.
General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.