Black Elderberry

Sambucus nigra/canadensis

Adoxaceae (formerly classified under Caprifoliaceae)

A Time-Honored Remedy for Immunity, Resilience, and Vitality

Other names:

Black Elder, European Elder, American Elder, Elderflower (for the blossoms), Judas Tree, Bore Tree, Sambucus, Suauco (Spanish), Holunder (German), Sureau (French).

Botanical Description

Spiritual Associations

Superpower

Elderberry’s superpower lies in its potent immune-boosting and antiviral properties, making it highly effective for preventing and treating colds, flu, and other viral infections.

Uses

Immune Support: Boosts the immune system and helps prevent and treat colds, flu, and other viral infections.
Antiviral: Inhibits the replication of viruses and reduces the severity and duration of viral infections.
Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and soothes symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
Antioxidant: Provides antioxidant protection and supports overall health.
Respiratory Health: Supports respiratory function and alleviates symptoms of bronchitis, coughs, and sinusitis.

Cautions

Raw Berries: Unripe or raw berries, as well as other parts of the plant (leaves, stems, roots), contain cyanogenic glycosides and can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. Always cook or process the berries before consumption.
Pregnancy and Nursing: Consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy and nursing (controversial)

Known Chemical Constituents

Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, isorhamnetin)
Anthocyanins (cyanidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-sambubioside)
Vitamins (vitamin C, vitamin A)
Minerals (iron)
Phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid)
Triterpenes (ursolic acid, oleanolic acid)
Essential oils (trace amounts in flowers)
Tannins
Pectins (sugars)
Sterols (β-sitosterol)
Minerals (potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron)
Mucilage

Botanical Description

Habitat: Native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia; commonly found in woodlands, hedgerows, and along streams.
Leaves: Opposite, pinnately compound with 5-9 serrated leaflets.
Stems: Woody, with a grayish-brown bark and a hollow pith.
Flowers: Small, white or cream-colored, fragrant, and borne in large, flat-topped clusters (corymbs) in late spring to early summer.
Fruits: Small, dark purple to black berries that ripen in late summer to early autumn.
Height: Typically grows 5-10 feet tall, but can reach up to 20 feet.

Fun Facts

Elderberry has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.
The elder tree is often associated with folklore and mythology, believed to have protective and magical properties.
Elderberry syrup is a popular natural remedy for boosting the immune system and preventing colds and flu.

Parts Used

Flowers & Berries.

Harvest

Best Time to Harvest:

Flowers:
Elderflowers are typically harvested in late spring to early summer when the flower clusters (umbels) are fully open but not yet starting to wilt. They are best collected on a dry day, ideally in the morning when their aroma is strongest.
Berries:
The berries are ready for harvesting in late summer to early fall when they turn a deep, dark purple or black. It’s important to harvest the berries when they are fully ripe, as unripe elderberries contain toxic compounds.

Parts Used:

Flowers: Collected for making teas, syrups, and tinctures.
Berries: Used in syrups, wines, jams, and medicinal preparations.

Harvesting Method:

For Flowers:
The flower clusters (umbels) should be snipped off cleanly with pruning shears or scissors. Only the flowers are used, so the green stems and leaves are discarded.
For Berries:
When harvesting berries, the entire umbel is cut, and the berries are later removed from the stems. Care should be taken not to crush the berries during collection, as this can cause them to spoil quickly.

Processing and Drying:

Flowers:
Elderflowers should be spread out in a single layer in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, to air dry. Once completely dry, they can be stored in an airtight container.
Berries:
After harvesting, elderberries should be de-stemmed and can be used fresh, frozen, or dried. If drying, spread them in a single layer in a dehydrator or in a warm, well-ventilated space until they are firm and shriveled.

Cautions During Harvest:

Toxicity of Unripe Berries and Other Plant Parts:
Unripe berries, as well as the leaves, stems, and roots of the elderberry plant, contain toxic compounds such as cyanogenic glycosides, which can be harmful if consumed. It is essential to ensure that only ripe berries and flowers are used.

Sustainable Harvesting:

Avoid Overharvesting:
When harvesting in the wild, care should be taken to leave enough berries on the plant for wildlife, as elderberries are an important food source for birds and other animals. Harvesting no more than one-third of the plant’s berries ensures sustainability and the plant’s health.

Preparations

Tea/Infusion: Steep dried flowers or berries in hot water.
Tincture: Extract the beneficial compounds in alcohol.
Syrup: Make a syrup from the berries for immune support.
Topical: Use flower infusions in skin care preparations for soothing effects.
Culinary: Berries can be used to make jams, jellies, wines, and desserts.

Sacred Rituals

Use elderberry in protection and purification rituals.
Incorporate elderberry into healing ceremonies to promote resilience and recovery.
Brew elderberry tea to support immune health and ward off illness.

Affirmations

“I am protected and resilient.”
“I embrace healing and renewal.”
“I am strong and healthy.”

Spiritual Associations

Elderberry is associated with protection, healing, and renewal. It symbolizes resilience and the ability to ward off negative influences, making it a powerful ally in rituals of protection and purification.

Functions