Herbs & Botanicals

Product Description

Botanical Name: Sambucus nigra

Plant Family: Adoxaceae (formerly Caprifoliaceae)

Botanical Description:
Elderflowers come from the elder tree, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra. This deciduous shrub or small tree is native to Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia but has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of the world. It typically grows up to 10 meters in height and features compound leaves with 5-9 leaflets arranged oppositely along the stem. The elder tree produces large, flat clusters of small, creamy-white flowers with a sweet, floral fragrance. These flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and are followed by clusters of small, dark purple berries. Both the flowers and berries of the elder tree have been used for culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries.

Introduction:
Elderflowers have a rich history of use in traditional herbal medicine, culinary arts, and folklore. They have been valued for their fragrance, delicate flavor, and potential health benefits. Elderflowers have been used in various cultures and are often consumed in the form of herbal teas, syrups, tinctures.

Preparations:
Tea or Infusion: Prepare elderflower tea or infusion by steeping dried elderflowers in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Strain the infusion and drink it. Elderflower tea may be consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle.
Syrup: Prepare elderflower syrup by simmering dried elderflowers with water and sugar until a syrupy consistency is achieved. Strain the syrup and store it in a sterilized glass bottle. Elderflower syrup can be used as a sweetener for beverages, desserts, and culinary dishes.
Tincture: Prepare an elderflower tincture by macerating dried elderflowers in alcohol (such as vodka or brandy) for several weeks. Strain the tincture and store it in a dark glass bottle. Take elderflower tincture orally by diluting it in water or juice according to the dosage instructions provided on the product label or by a qualified herbalist.