Organic Elderberries (Sambucus nigra)

WESTERN HERB: ORGANIC ELDERBERRY HERB (ELDER BERRIES); Sambucus nigra

USDA Certified Organic Dried Elderberries (European) 

Dried elderberries, also known as Sambucus nigra, are often used in traditional herbal remedies. Dried elderberries are a rich source of antioxidants, anthocyanins, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds. Dried elderberries can be used to make homemade syrups, teas, jams, or added to baked goods. They can also be taken as supplements in capsules or powder form and are often used in traditional medicine to support overall health and wellness. It is important to choose organic, non-irradiated, and unsweetened elderberries to ensure the highest nutritional value and purity.

Other Names

Organic Elderberry, Elderberry, Elder berries, Elderberries, Sambucas Nigra, Common Elder, Black Elder, Adoxaceae, Capriofoliaceae

Properties

Pungent, Bitter, Cool

Channels Entered

Lung, Bladder

Therapeutic Actions

Wind-Heat, Phlegm, Heat

Appearance

Small, dark violet-blue dried berries 

Uses

Jelly, Jams, Alcoholic Beverages, Soups, Infusions, Skin Cream, Teas

High Quality

When you want buy elderberries, especially dried elderberries, you want to look for signs of high quality berries.

High-quality dried elderberries should have a deep purple or black color. (Fresh elderberries should be plump and glossy). They should be free of mold, mildew, and discoloration, and they should also have a strong, fruity aroma, indicating that they are fresh and have been properly dried. They should be uniform in size and shape, and should not have any signs of being crushed or broken. They should be dry and not moist or sticky to the touch.

It's important to note that when you buy dried elderberries, it's best to choose organic, non-irradiated, and unsweetened berries as they have the highest nutritional value and purity. And make sure to store them in an airtight container, in a cool and dry place to preserve their freshness and potency.

Elderberry Herb Facts

Elderberries grow in North America and Europe on small flowering trees.  The branches of these trees can be hollowed easily, resulting in a tube.  Some kids use these to make "popguns", while other craft whistles and makeshift instruments.  Watchmakers often use the pitch for cleaning tools, and Pagans and Wiccans are known to whittle wands out of them.  Traditionally, Anglo-Saxons used the hollowed-out branches to blow air into fires (billowing). 

The flowers of the elderberry shrub are visually similar to honeysuckle, Jin Yin Hua.  Some relatives of the Sambucas Nigra are poisonous, and the flowers are harvested only from the Sambucas canadensis. 

The elderberries are known to be tart and used in many gastronomic dishes including preserves, jellies, jams, and even wine and liquor.  They are an important part of the diet of birds, deer, elk; many birds also nest among the elderberry bushes branches. 

The flowers and berries are the only edible part of the sambucas nigra plant for mammals, the other parts such as the stems and leaves contain cyanogenic glycoside sambunigrin and calcium oxalate, which are both poisonous. 

Popular Elderberry Syrup Recipe

One popular recipe using dried elderberries is homemade Elderberry Syrup. The syrup is made by simmering dried elderberries, honey and spices to create a concentrated liquid that can be taken daily to help support a healthy immune system. Here is a basic recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried elderberries
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup raw honey
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the elderberries, water, cinnamon stick, ginger, and cloves.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by about half.
3. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, discarding the solids.
5. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
6. Store the syrup in a glass jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

The syrup can be taken daily to support immune system health. Adults can take 1-2 tablespoons daily, children under the age of 12 can take 1 teaspoon daily. It can also be added to hot tea or used as a spread over pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.

It's important to note that this recipe is a general guideline and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a herbalist to determine the right dosage and usage for you.

Elderberry Safety Precautions

Elderberry is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts as a food or herbal remedy. However, there are some safety precautions to keep in mind when using elderberry:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using elderberry as not enough is known about the safety of elderberry during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• People with autoimmune diseases should avoid using elderberry as it may stimulate the immune system.

• People taking immunosuppressant medications should avoid using elderberry as it may interfere with the effectiveness of these medications.

• People with a history of allergies should be cautious when taking elderberry as it may cause an allergic reaction.

• People with diabetes should be cautious when taking elderberry as it may lower blood sugar levels.

• People with a history of kidney stones should avoid using elderberry as it may cause formation of kidney stones.

• It's important to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified practitioner before using elderberry to determine the right dosage and usage for you.

It's important to note that high doses of elderberries may have adverse effects, and it's always best to consume them in moderation. 

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