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Written by Ruth Madocks
Posted in iNFORMATION PRESS - Health

Elder flowers and berries (Sambucus canadiensis) were once called “the medicine chest of the country people” for their legendary properties. Historically elder was popular in Europe for treating colds, influenza, fevers and sinus conditions and as an expectorant for bronchitis, sore throats and asthma. Native Americans also used elder berries and flowers for treating flu-like symptoms, rheumatism, nervous conditions and infections. A traditional folk remedy for colds and the flu is an infusion of elderflowers, peppermint and yarrow. The blue or black berries have been used in many foods and in wine, jams, jellies, and cordials. Elderberry wine was prepared and consumed by many early settlers to the U.S. and Canada and is still popular today.
Elderberry juice is rich in phenolics, anthocyanins, and flavonols; all compounds that are high in antioxidants. Elder has an antioxidant content similar to or, according to some recent studies, even higher than blueberry and cranberry. It also has a very high vitamin A and C content. “Sambucol” syrup and other medicinal products from the black elder are widely used in Europe and other countries as a flu remedy. Here in the U.S. elderberries and flowers are quickly gaining the reputation for fighting the flu, allergies, and other ailments.
Elder grows prolifically in the California foothills and in most woodland areas on the Central Coast. The blue species (Sambucus Mexicanus), found in southern California, looks similar to the blueberry but smaller. Many of the bushes are so big they look like trees. The white lacy clumps of flowers bloom in late spring. The berries appear in the fall and can be collected in moist areas on the Central Coast. Many nurseries now carry both species of elder.
Here is the old gypsy formula used by many herbalists. At the first sign of a cold or fever, drink sips of this infusion to alleviate the symptoms. The hot tea promotes perspiration to reduce temperature and release toxins. It also tones the mucous membranes to clear the nose and sinuses.
1 part elder flowers
1 part yarrow flowers
1 part peppermint leaves
Mix all the ingredients together; store in a glass jar away from heat and light.
To make the tea, pour one cup of boiling water for each teaspoon of tea mix used. Cover tightly and steep 15-20 minutes. Strain and serve. Drink 3 to 4 very hot cups daily. Children can sip on a ½ cup three times a day or add the tea to warm juice.