Elder Flower (Sambucus nigra)

Dried flowers of Sambucus nigra, European Black Elder, harvested before they develop into the dark elderberries. Elder flowers and elderberries are both from the same tree but have distinct traditional uses and flavor profiles. Elder flowers are a centerpiece of European folk wellness tradition, particularly for fever support and as the base of elderflower cordial and "champagne."

Key Facts

Botanical name

Sambucus nigra

Family

Adoxaceae

Native region

Europe, Western Asia, Northern Africa

Part used

Dried flower clusters (umbels)

Studied compounds

Flavonoids (rutin, quercetin), volatile oils

Common uses

Tea, elderflower cordial, traditional fever support, cosmetic preparations

What are Elder Flowers?

The European Elder tree produces large flat umbels (clusters) of small cream-white flowers in late spring and early summer. The flowers have a distinctive sweet floral fragrance with subtle muscat and citrus notes. Across European folk tradition, elderflower tea is the classic preparation for cold and fever support; the elderflower cordial - a sweet floral syrup made from fresh flowers, sugar, citrus, and water - is one of the most beloved seasonal drinks in many European countries.

How to Use Elder Flowers

For tea: steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers per 8 oz cup in hot water for 5-10 minutes; strain. Traditional European fever-support combination: elderflower with peppermint and yarrow. For cordial: simmer dried flowers with sugar, lemon, and water to make a syrup. For cosmetic use: cool elderflower infusion as a traditional skin toner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between elder flower and elderberry?
Same plant, different parts harvested at different times. Flowers in late spring/early summer; berries in late summer/early fall. The two have distinct traditional uses.

What does elderflower taste like?
Distinctly floral with subtle muscat and citrus notes; gentle and pleasant.

What is elderflower cordial?
A sweet floral syrup made by simmering fresh or dried elderflowers with sugar, lemon, and water. A traditional European summer drink.

How are elderflowers used for fevers?
Traditional European fever support combines elderflower with peppermint and yarrow as a hot tea taken at the first signs of feverish illness.

What is St. Germain liqueur?
A commercial elderflower liqueur made from fresh elderflowers macerated in alcohol; popularized in modern cocktails.

Can I forage elderflowers?
Yes if you can correctly identify the elder tree; be careful to distinguish from other white-flowered umbellifers. Correct identification matters.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.