Chopping elder branches was considered dangerous in rural England because woodcutters believed that the tree was inhabited by the Elder Mother. They would recite a rhyme to avoid her wrath.

Common Names:  Elder, common elder, elderberry

Latin Name:  Sambucus nigra

Plant Family:  Adoxaceae

Parts Used:  Flower, berries

Habitat:  Native to Europe; thrives in woods, hedges, and along creek beds

Actions & Constituents:  Flavonoids and phenolic acids have antioxidant properties, triterpenes are anti-inflammatory, acts as a diuretic to remove waste products

Uses:  Flowers are ideal for colds and the flu and help reduce fever; they also increase resistance to infection and help with chronic congestion; have been found to be helpful in arthritic conditions; the berries increase body temperature, causing a virus-fighting effect

How to Prepare:  Can be used as a tea or tincture. Traditionally, the berries were made into elderberry wine.