Whole Dried Elderberries (Sambucus nigra)

Dried whole berries of Sambucus nigra, European Black Elderberry, the iconic European fruit for immune-supporting traditional preparations. Elderberries have been used across European folk medicine for centuries, particularly as the base for elderberry syrup - a winter staple in many traditional European households.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Sambucus nigra

Family

Adoxaceae (formerly Caprifoliaceae)

Common names

Elderberry, European Elderberry, Black Elder

Native region

Europe, Western Asia, Northern Africa; naturalized in North America

Studied compounds

Anthocyanins (sambucin), flavonoids, vitamins A and C

Traditional use

Immune support, winter wellness tonic, traditional elderberry syrup

What are Elderberries?

European Black Elder is a small tree or large shrub native to Europe and surrounding regions. The plant produces clusters of small dark purple-black berries in late summer. The berries have a long traditional use in European folk medicine, particularly for immune and respiratory support during the winter months. The traditional preparation - elderberry syrup made with the berries, raw honey, and warming spices - is one of the most documented European folk preparations.

Important: Cook Before Consuming

Raw uncooked elderberries contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides that can cause nausea. Cooking eliminates this concern. All traditional elderberry preparations involve cooking (simmering for syrup, simmering for tea, baking in pies). Do not eat raw elderberries.

How to Use Dried Elderberries

For elderberry syrup (most popular use): simmer 1/2 cup dried berries in 3 cups water for 30-45 minutes until reduced by half; strain; add 1 cup raw honey when cooled; bottle and refrigerate. Take 1 tablespoon daily during winter months. For tea: simmer 1 teaspoon of berries in 8 oz water for 15 minutes; strain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why must elderberries be cooked?
Raw uncooked elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides that cause nausea; cooking eliminates this concern.

How do you make elderberry syrup?
Simmer dried berries in water until reduced by half, strain, add raw honey, bottle and refrigerate.

What are elderberries used for?
Immune support and winter wellness in European folk tradition.

How long does homemade elderberry syrup keep?
Refrigerated, 2-3 months.

Can children take elderberry syrup?
Generally yes for children over 1 year; raw honey is not recommended for infants under 1 year (botulism risk).

Are these the same as American Elderberry?
European Black Elderberry (S. nigra) is the most commonly traded species; American Elderberry (S. canadensis) is a closely related North American species with similar use.

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.