Botanical Name – Sambucus nigra, Sambucus canadensis

Family: Adoxaceae

Energetics: cool, dry, relaxant

Taste: sweet, slightly oily, astringent

Parts used: flowers and berries

Affinities: immune system

Actions: diuretic, astringent, diaphoretic, circulatory stimulant, digestive, nutritive, alterative, respiratory antimicrobial, antispasmodic, antitussive, purgative, vermifuge, exhilarant

Preparations: tea, honey infusion, tincture, syrup, infusion

Cautions: Typically, very safe, but elder bark and large doses of fresh black elderberries act as purgatives (laxative)

Therapeutic Uses:

• Elderberries help to prevent and lessen flu and cold infections by preventing the virus from reproducing in the body. 
• Strengthens the immune system and stimulates the lymph system. 
• The diuretic actions of elder flowers get fluid moving throughout the body.
• Emotionally, elder is uplifting and helps to pull you out of a heavy, depressive state. 
• Elder syrup helps lessen the symptoms of seasonal allergies. 

**This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness or disease. It is for educational purposes only.