Elderberry

History and Uses:
Elderberry grows in Europe and North America. Elder's name is thought to refer to an old Anglo-Saxon term, aeld, meaning "fire or kindle," as the hollow stems of the Elder were blown on a fire to get it started. Many cultures believed this tree to be so special that they refused to burn the wood or use it to make furniture, lest it bring bad luck to the household. It was planted by homes to protect the house from lightning and evil, bring prosperity, happy marriage and healthy children. Elderberry is said to help strengthen and maintain the immune and respiratory systems. Elderberry may be taken to help prevent colds and flu, and taken at the first sign of cold or flu, Elderberry is believed to generally reduce the course of the infection down to one or two days. Elderberry focuses on the nutritional needs of the immune system, offering the body additional amounts of vitamin C, fruit acids and traces of essential oils and anthocyanin pigments. It is said that Elderberry helps eliminate toxic stagnations that are typically the home for infectious bacteria. The antibiotic, antiviral and antibacterial properties found in Elderberry also work to stimulate the skin, kidneys and lymphatic system. The Flavonoids, including Quercetin, are believed to account for the therapeutic effects of the Elderberry flowers and berries. A study in humans determined that an extract of Elderberries is an effective treatment for influenza. Animal studies have shown the flowers to have anti-inflammatory properties. The

common name, Elder, also includes the species Sambucus canadensis, which is used

interchangeably with Sambucus nigra.