Elderberry cordial, elderberry water, elderberry Champagne, elderberry liquer: the elderflower seems to be the flavour of the moment in the drinks isle this decade.The small black blue berries of the plant are used to make wines, cordials and marmalade. The hollowed elderberry twigs can be used to tap maple trees for syrup. But it is extract of the flowers that are used in elderflower syrup that the French use to make elderflower marshmallows.
It's not just our taste buds that savour this subtle flavour, our skin too is happy to absorb this small white, somewhat quirky, herbaceous plant. The elderflower (botanical name Sambucus nigra) has many medicinal properties. From blisters to boosting the immune system to soothing stimulating circulation the elderflower can remedy.
Other health issues elderflower can help include rheumatic problems, ear infections, constipation, influenza and respiratory problems. It is the extract of the black elderberry that has been found in numerous studies to each aches, pains and fever as it contains anthocyanins which has an anti-inflammatory effect. Flavonoids (type of antioxidants) are also found in the extract and are effective in stimulating the immune system.
Some popular organic products that contain elderflower are the Rosemary & Elder Shower Gel by Neal's Yard Remedies and the SPF25 Childrens Sun Lotion by Green People.
