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What is Elder Flower?

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

Elder flower, the common name for blossoms on plants of the genus Sambucus, is a type of flower used as a flavoring agent and in homeopathic medicine. Human use of this plant dates back hundreds if not thousands of years, though it retains the most popularity in Europe, particularly in Scandinavian countries such as Sweden. The more than two dozen different types of this shrub grow throughout the world, but the best known is the Sambucus nigra which grows across much of Northern Europe and North America.

The common type of elder flower is notable for its pretty, cream-colored flowers and dark blue or purple berries. Before ripening and when raw, the berries may cause illness and are believed to be slightly poisonous in nature. Additionally, the leaves, stems, and main branches of the shrub are also known to be poisonous and should not be consumed. When cooked, the berries have a slightly tart flavor often likened to blueberries or red currants,and are often made into jams, pies, or even wine. Berries and flowers together can be boiled and combined to make sauces or alcoholic drinks, popular across much of Europe.

A bottle of elder flower infused water.
A bottle of elder flower infused water.

The elder flower itself is the pale white or cream blossom that adorns the shrub, with a delicate scent often compared to roses and jasmine. The blossoms themselves have a wide variety of culinary uses. Flowers are frequently harvested and turned into liqueurs, flavoring syrups, or wine. It is a component in the popular cordial Sambuca, but can also be used alone as a cordial beverage. Some vintners recommend using it to flavor sparkling beverages, noting that it can make a wonderful champagne-like drink. Elder flower syrup is also commercially available; this non-alcoholic syrup can be added to sparkling water or mixed drinks for a delicious, flowery flavor.

Elder flower is an ingredient in sambuca, an Italian cordial.
Elder flower is an ingredient in sambuca, an Italian cordial.

In homeopathic remedies, elder flower blossoms are often used in creating teas and tisanes for a variety of ailments. Some suggest that it is an excellent remedy for hay fever, both as a preventative measure and a treatment. Some homeopathic experts also suggest using the flower as a tea to reduce flu symptoms and even help boost immunity to the flu. Elder flowers steeped in water is also sometimes suggested as a method of reducing skin irritations such as acne. It is important to remember that these remedies are folk-based and not a product of medical research, and that many doctors suggest consulting with a physician before trying any natural remedy.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a WiseGEEK writer.

Learn more...
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a WiseGEEK writer.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

julies

When we moved to our place in the country there were all kind of trees and shrubs that I knew nothing about.

My sister-in-law was so excited when she saw some elder berry bushes growing because her mom had often make jam from the berries.

Every year she would collect the berries and make some jam. It really tasted better than I thought it would.

She also told me you could use the flowers from the bush and make elder flower tea. I never tried this, but just enjoyed the jam she gave me every year.

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    • A bottle of elder flower infused water.
      By: karandaev
      A bottle of elder flower infused water.
    • Elder flower is an ingredient in sambuca, an Italian cordial.
      By: eyewave
      Elder flower is an ingredient in sambuca, an Italian cordial.