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Elderberry

Sambucus nigra

Numerous species of elder or elderberry grow in Europe and North America. Only those with blue/black berries are medicinal. The flowers and berries are both used. Elderberries have long been used as food, particularly in the dried form. Elderberry wine, pie, and lemonade are some of the popular ways to prepare this plant as food. The leaves were used by European herbalists for pain relief and to promote the healing of injuries when applied as a poultice. Native American herbalists used the plant for infections, coughs, and skin conditions.

Dosage

400mg one to three times daily.

Potential applications

Colds and influenza virus, feverish conditions, catarrhal congestion of the upper respiratory tract, sinusitis and perennial rhinitis, hayfever and allergies, inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, fluid retention.

Known contraindications

None known.

Interactions

None known.

Use in conjunction with

  • Colds and flu - Echinacea /astragalus, vitamin C, Zinc

Note

For tired or inflamed eyes, apply lukewarm elderberry flower tea on cotton wool pads to the lids of closed eyes for 5-10mins as required.

References

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