Delivering excellence in complementary medicine since 1993

The Complementary Medical Association

Elderflower – Herbal Remedy

Elderflower Herbal Therapy
Share to your social

Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)  

Elderflower mixed with peppermint is a common treatment for colds and flu. 

The delicate taste of elderflower petals make it a popular herb to use in jams, cordials, and wines. Elderflowers soaked in lemon juice and mixed with sugar and water make a delicious summer drink. The flowers have also been used as a dye.

Other names: Black elder, European elder, common elder, bone tree.

Description and the places it grows in

Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It is a small tree with delicate flowers. 

Parts used

All parts are used. Flowers are picked spring / summer and dried rapidly.

Uses

Diaphoretic, laxative, antispasmodic, emollient.

Colds and flu: Clears up excessive catarrh and induces sweating. Very useful as ear drops for when the Eustachian tube is blocked.

Hay fever / sinusitis: Reduces the symptoms of these two conditions.

Other uses: Elderflower can sooth sore eyes if used as an eyewash, and it is also used on chilblains in a compress. It has been used to treat cystitis, rheumatism, and bronchitis.

Constituents

Small amount of essential oil, palmitic linoleic, linolenic acids, triterpenes, flavonoids (including rutin) mucilage, sugar, and pectin.

Contraindications

None known. 

Share to your social
Facebook
Pinterest
Twitter
LinkedIn

The CMA Newsletter - Subscribe now

Click the button to the right to subscribe to our newsletter.

Newsletter Form

The CMA Newsletter - Subscribe now

Click the button to the right to subscribe to our newsletter.

error: Content is protected !!