Elderflower

Elderflower | Sambucus nigra | Family: Adoxaceae (formerly known as the Honeysuckle or Moschatel family)

Elderflower, the creamy white blossom of the elder tree, has long been cherished in herbal medicine for its fragrant aroma and remarkable healing powers. Revered for thousands of years, this ancient herb supports the respiratory system, soothes fevers, and assists in the gentle elimination of toxins. Both the flowers and berries of the elder tree hold valuable medicinal properties, making it one of nature’s most generous plants.

The Elder was one of the sacred trees of the Celts, known as Ruis the Elder, representing the thirteenth lunar month. Across Europe, it has been surrounded by folklore said to be both protective and magical. Native to Europe and North America, elder trees thrive along roadsides, forest edges, and fields.

There are two main species:

• European elderberry (Sambucus nigra) – up to 20 feet tall
• American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) – shorter
  A related species, red elderberry (Sambucus racemosa), bears poisonous berries and should not be used.

Elderflowers bloom in late spring to early summer, depending on climate, with their short flowering window offering a precious time to harvest

Energetics and Taste

Elderflower’s flavour is sweet, cooling, and mildly bitter, with a light aromatic quality. Its energetics are dry, astringent, and neutral, and it holds a special affinity for the respiratory, circulatory, and eliminatory systems.

Constituents and Herbal Actions

Key Constituents:

• Flavonoids (rutin, isoquercitrin)
• Mucilaginous polysaccharides
• Tannins
• Phenolic acids
• Volatile oils
• Triterpenes
• Potassium

Actions:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Antispasmodic
• Diaphoretic
• Expectorant
• Febrifuge

Traditional and Therapeutic Uses

Respiratory & Immune Support

Elderflower shines in treating colds, flu, sinus congestion, and fevers. Its diaphoretic (sweat inducing) action helps the body regulate temperature and eliminate toxins through the skin. Rather than suppressing a fever, elderflower works in harmony with the body’s natural immune response enhancing the healing process.

It is especially indicated in catarrhal conditions such as sinusitis, tonsillitis, hay fever, and allergic rhinitis, helping to clear mucus and ease inflamed tissues.

Herbalists often combine elderflower with peppermint and yarrow during influenza or feverish colds to support the immune system and promote healthy sweating.

Note: Persistent or unexplained fevers may indicate a serious condition requiring medical care.

Circulation and Elimination

Elderflower promotes gentle detoxification by stimulating the skin and lymphatic system. As a diuretic and peripheral vasodilator, it helps move fluid through the body, relieving oedema and improving circulation to the extremities. These actions make it supportive for both skin health and hormonal balance.

Skin and Topical Uses

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, elderflower can calm irritated, inflamed, or allergic skin.
It may be used externally as:

• A poultice or wash for rashes and eczema
• A cool infusion for tired or itchy eyes
• A bath addition to soothe the skin

Historically, Victorian women used elderflower water to cleanse and brighten the complexion  a practice now enjoying a revival in natural skincare.

Research Insights

Modern studies primarily focus on elderberries, yet promising research supports elderflower’s role as an immune modulator and antioxidant:

• Phenolic compounds in elderflower exhibit strong free radical scavenging activity, protecting against cellular damage.
• Polysaccharides from elderflower extracts may enhance immune cell activity, supporting recovery from viral infections.
• Emerging neuroprotective research suggests elderflower may help reduce cellular stress in brain tissue.

Though more clinical studies are needed, traditional use and laboratory evidence continue to affirm elderflower’s healing reputation.

Safety and Dosage

Elderflower is generally safe when used appropriately.
Precautions:

• May lower blood sugar; use caution with diabetes or anti-diabetic medications.
• May interfere with blood sugar control during or after surgery.

Dosage:
Tincture (1:5 in 40%) — 2–4 ml, three times daily.

Elderflower vs. Elderberry

While both come from the same tree, their uses differ slightly:

Many herbalists combine both in teas and syrups for a synergistic immune tonic.

How to Use Elderflowers

Infusions & Teas

• Hot infusion: Remove stalks to avoid bitterness. Steep flowers in boiling water for 10 -15 minutes. Add honey for a soothing cold or flu remedy.
• Cold infusion: Leave the stalks on; soak flowers in cold water for a few hours for a cooling summer drink.
  Combine with thyme and peppermint for respiratory support.

Cordial

A beloved summer preparation fragrant, sweet, and refreshing.
Recipe:

1. Dissolve 1.5 kg sugar in 1.5 L water and bring to a boil.
2. Pour over 25 elderflowers (no stems) and 3 sliced lemons.
3. Infuse for 24 hours, strain, bottle, and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Syrup

Combine elderflowers (or berries) with sugar and water to make an immune-boosting syrup perfect for winter use.

Wine

Traditional elderflower wine is crisp and floral. Infuse flowers in boiling water with sugar, lemon, and yeast, ferment for several days, then age for a few months. 

Salve or Lotion

Infuse elderflowers into oil, blend with beeswax, and combine with herbs like calendula, comfrey, or St John’s wort to soothe inflammation, sprains, and strains.

Eye Wash

Steep flowers in hot water, cool completely, and apply with cotton pads for irritated or itchy eyes  especially helpful during allergy season.

Culinary Delights

Elderflower cordial or dried blossoms can be used in:

• Cakes, pancakes, jams, and tarts
• Infused vinegars and salad dressings
• Cocktails or mocktails (delightful with sparkling water or gin)

Harvesting Tips

• Pick in the morning when the fragrance is strongest.
• Choose flower heads from trees away from roads and industrial areas.
• Dry blossoms upside down on paper in a warm, airy place.
• Harvest sustainably leave enough flowers for the berries to develop later in the season.

In Summary

Elderflower is a time-honoured ally for the respiratory system, immune health, and skin vitality.
Its gentle yet potent actions make it an indispensable herb for both the medicine chest and the kitchen, connecting us to nature’s rhythm cooling, cleansing, and comforting body and spirit alike.

“The health benefits of elderflowers are useful all year round, though their bloom is brief a reminder to harvest wisely and give thanks for the gifts of the season.”

The information provided is for educational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Consult your medical care provider before using herbal medicine, particularly if you have a known medical condition, are on any medication, and if you are pregnant or nursing.