Biological designation:

Sambucus nigra

Excavations of stone-age sites have uncovered remains of boiled elderberries. Through the centuries, elder rated alongside chamomile as the most efficacious of popular medicinal remedies. Its supposed ability to ward off evil spirits gave elder a major role in popular belief: it was thought to bring bad luck if an elder bush were cut down for evil motives and its cut wood was never permitted to be burnt to prevent the powers of evil that had entered the elder from being set free. Elder has a sudorific effect in cases of feverish colds.

Habitat:

The elder bush can be found throughout Europe up to altitudes of around 1500 meters; it prefers damp, shady spots.

Active ingredients:

Elder blossom contains volatile oil, mucilage and flavonoid-glycosides.