Elder is a shrub or small tree in the honeysuckle family native to North America and Asia. The delicate, white flowers are used to make syrups and cordials, as well as tea, soup, wine, brandy and other beverages, such as the fruity liquor known as St. Germain.

Elder flowers are also combined with other herbs, such as chamomile as ingredients in various hair and skin care preparations. In Russia and the Ukraine, the flowers are sold in pharmacies as a tea for dry cough.

Flowers have a light but earthy flavor. Pairs well with mild herbs like chamomile and meadowsweet.

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elder flower

Elder, also known as Boor Tree and Black Elder, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe, Asia and Africa. While the fruits provide food for wildlife, the leaves and flowers are used to make elderberry wine and other beverages, as well as soothing syrups. Elder flower is also an ingredient in natural hair and skin products, prepared either as infused oil or a water infusion.

According to the legend, cutting the bush is unwise unless first obtaining permission from the Elder Mother, a dryad or tree nymph who is said to reside in the heart of the small tree. For extra insurance, reciting “Elder Mother, please give me some wood, and I’ll give you some of mine when I grow into a tree” three times bore making a cut is sure to appease the tree spirit.

The Elder Mother is the subject of Hans Christian Andersen's "Hyldemoer,” a classic tale in which a young Danish boy, who gets his feet wet and catches cold, dreams of “sailing into the warmer countries” after sampling two cups of elder flower tea. It is also said that falling asleep under an elder bush in flower is to risk waking up in Fairyland.

Weight: 1 net ounce

for educational purposes only

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

please be advised:
Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor,
especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.