Elderberry, European Black

European Elderberry

Sambucus nigra

Botanical Family: Adoxaceae (Moschatel family)

Botanical Description

Sambucus nigra is a deciduous shrub or small tree growing 3-9 meters tall. The compound leaves have 5-7 toothed leaflets with an unpleasant smell when crushed. Large, flat-topped clusters (cymes) of creamy-white, fragrant flowers appear in early summer, followed by drooping clusters of small, glossy black-purple berries in late summer to autumn.

Medicinal Actions

Flowers: Diaphoretic, anti-catarrhal, anti-inflammatory, expectorant.

Berries: Antiviral, immunomodulant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory.

Traditional uses: Every part of elder has been used medicinally for centuries. The flowers are traditional for fevers, colds, and allergies. The berries have been used for coughs and as a winter tonic.

Modern research: Elderberry has strong evidence for reducing the duration and severity of influenza. Studies show it can inhibit viral replication and modulate immune cytokines.

Body Systems Affected

Immune: Antiviral, particularly for influenza; immune-modulating.

Respiratory: Flowers for upper respiratory conditions; berries for coughs.

Integumentary: Flower water used as skin tonic.

Safety Information

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Raw elderberries, bark, leaves, and unripe berries contain cyanogenic glycosides and are TOXIC. Berries must be cooked before consumption.

Properly prepared: Cooked berries and dried flowers are safe.

Autoimmune conditions: Theoretically may stimulate immune system; use with caution.

Pregnancy: Cooked berries considered safe in food amounts. Consult practitioner for medicinal use.

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Zones 4-8.

Light: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil. Prefers nitrogen-rich conditions.

Sowing: Seeds require cold stratification. Easier from cuttings.

Spacing: 2-3 meters apart.

Harvesting

Flowers: Harvest whole clusters when fully open and fragrant, on dry mornings.

Berries: Harvest when fully ripe (black and slightly soft). Remove from stems before processing.

Drying & Storage

Dry flower heads on screens at 35°C (95°F); strip flowers from stems when dry. Berries can be dried or frozen. For syrup, cook fresh or frozen berries. Store dried material in airtight containers for up to 1 year.