Elder Flowers (Sambucus nigra)

Parts used: Flowers

Properties

Alterative, anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, expectorant, febrifuge, purgative (mild), stimulant

Primary nutrients

Vitamins A and C with bioflavonoids

Elder flower has been used to reduce a fever by increasing blood circulation and promoting sweating.  It is used for detoxifying the body at the cellular level.  It also contains constituents known to act as a sedative and relieve pain.  This herb works as an expectorant to relieve mucus and to reduce inflammation.   It is used in herbal formulas.  Combined with goldenseal and yarrow, it is known to speed healing.  It is combined with mullein to help heal lung congestion and asthma.  It is also used as an eyewash along with eyebright and goldenseal.

Research has found the properties of elder flower to be useful for acute diseases.  It is beneficial in the treatment of colds, flu, tonsillitis, laryngitis, rheumatic fever and hay fever.  The flavonols in the flower may also work as a diuretic to relieve water retention.