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Common Names
Elder, Elderberry, Black Elder, European Elder, European Elderberry, European Black Elderberry, Common Elder, or Elder Bush.
Latin Name
Sambucus nigra
Habitat
Native to most of Europe, northwest Africa and southwest Asia.
Traditional Uses
The flowerheads are commonly used in infusions, giving a very common refreshing drink in Northern Europe and Balkans. Commercially these are sold as elderflower cordial, etc. The berries are edible after cooking and can be used to make jam, jelly, chutney and cordial. In the past, the strong-smelling foliage was tied to a horse's mane to keep flies away while riding. Stembark, leaves, flowers, fruits, root extracts are used to treat bronchitis, cough, upper respiratory cold infections, fever.
Medicinal Uses
Berries are high in Vitamin C. Medical research shows that the flowers contain flavonoids and rutin which are known antioxidants. Antioxidents are important in the maintenance of good health.
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