Plant Spotlight: Elderberry

Elderberry, the magical and nutritious fruit bestowed upon us by the Elder tree/shrub, is an amazing ally for supporting our immune systems. She is said to be a protector, a healer and to cast away any negativity. She is known as the Elder Mother and has been considered to be sacred to many cultures throughout history. Revered by Hippocrates, the Druids, Medieval Europe, Indigenous North America and Russia. Her value is still very much relevant today.
The berries and the flowers of this sacred plant can be used as both a preventative herbal supplement and as a rescue remedy during cold and flu season. The tart berries of the elderberry plant are jam packed with antioxidants, vitamins A, B6 and C, polyphenols, and essential minerals that help to keep our bodies' natural defenses in tip top shape. When taken at onset of symptoms, elderberry syrup can reduce the number of days you are sick in half! You can also include her sweet medicine into your family’s routine a few days a week during cold and flu season to reduce the likelihood of getting sick.The anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and immune stimulating properties are why we look to elderberries when we want to prevent and treat colds, flus and other viruses. *While elderberry is safe and effective for people of all ages, anyone who has a history of autoimmune disease should consult with a medical professional due to its immune-stimulating properties* 

Harvesting Elderflower + Elderberries

The Elderflowers can be harvested around mid-June. The flowers grow in clusters called umbels (think umbrella) they are a rich white color and have a milky floral essence to them. They are best harvested well after the morning dew has evaporated and they are full of pollen. Remember that you want to leave enough flowers on any given plant for our pollinator friends and also to pollinate other nearby Elder trees, as they do not self pollinate. Also, any flower umbels you harvest would have been where the berries would have grown, so keep that in mind too, if you want a good amount of berries later on. Elderflower has similar properties to the elderberry for treating/preventing colds and flus when prepared as a tea or a tincture. It is also used to treat bronchitis and swollen sinuses. The delicately sweet floral flavor of elderflower makes it a great ingredient to use in a syrup for desserts and drinks and can be used to flavor baked goods as well.  

Want to get to know the elderberry plant up close and personal? Check out our instagram video that gets up close and personal with elderberry. Don't forget to like and follow to get daily plant wisdom ;)

Elderberry Syrup Recipe

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This post was written by Debra Romano, an Level 2 Apprentice at Herbs Love And Yoga