1 oz. Elderberries Whole (Wildcrafted, Sambucus nigra)

Elderberry is the fruit of the elder tree, a flowering shrub that is a member of the honeysuckle family. Although the tart berries improve in flavor with cooking, the leaves and stems are toxic. The highly fragrant flowers, however, are also used in cooking and to produce skin lotions and other cosmetics. Both infusions of the berry and flower are traditionally used to soothe minor skin irritations, while elderberry juice and syrup are known to be taken at the first sign of a cold or the flu. The fruits of the elder tree are edible, but due to the presence of a cyanide-like chemical they must be cooked first. Whole ripe elderberries, which have gone from green to reddish purple to almost black, have long been used to make pies, pastries, jams, jellies, wine, cordials and syrup. The dried berries are also added to tea blends. The berries have also been used in times past as a dye or a flavoring. Bulk elderberries are commonly used for their antioxidant qualities, and are a good source of Vitamins A and C. In traditional medicine, the berries were used for their diuretic, astringent and laxative properties. The information contained in this listing is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.