Elder plant (Lat: Sambucus nigra L.)

Elder (Latin: Sambucus nigra L. / Macedonian: Бозел, Боз) is a deciduous shrub or small tree growing to 6 m, spread in bright and warm places. It blooms in May and June and matures in September.

Young leaves are harvested in April and May, and the flowers are harvested during flowering in May and June when they have a beautiful milky white color. Later in the summer they change color and are no longer suitable for use. It is also important to remember that flowers should be picked in dry and sunny weather, otherwise they quickly change color and lose quality.

Elder plant (Lat: Sambucus nigra L.) - Flowers

Elder is believed to have antiviral, antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties. It is particularly rich in flavonoids which are known that reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, asthma, and stroke.
One of the most significant effects of Elder tea is the stimulation of sweating and urination that comes from the ability to lower the thermoregulatory center's irritation threshold. Tea can be made from elder leaves and flowers.

The positive effects of sweating are lowering body temperature and releasing the accumulated toxic substances, so this tea can be an effective therapy for all high-temperature associated diseases such as viral infections, influenza, colds, rheumatic diseases, bronchitis, etc.

Studies have shown that Elder can reduce the symptoms and shorten the duration of the flu.

Known Hazards

The leaves and stems are poisonous. The fruit of many species has been known to cause stomach upsets to some people. Any toxin the fruit might contain is liable to be of very low toxicity and is destroyed when the fruit is cooked (source>>).

Honeybee on Elder plant (Lat: Sambucus nigra L.)

Elder Flowers Juice Recipe

The homemade Elderflower juice is one of the favorite summer drinks in villages in Macedonia. It is easy to prepare and is a real refreshment in the summer days.

Ingredients:

50 flowers
5 lemons
1.5 kg sugar
1.5 liters boiling water

Preparation:

When picking the elderflowers its recommended not pick from elders close to roads and other sources of pollution. The flowers should be rinsed carefully in cold water, and placed in a large bowl.
Rinse and slice the lemons and place them on top of the elderflowers.
Pour the sugar in the bowl and last pour the boiling water over it all.
Let it cool and place it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Stir it occasionally.
After 3-4 days, pour the juice through a clean cloth in bottles.
The bottles should be kept into a refrigerator.