Black elderberry fruits. Black elderberry berries - medicinal properties, uses, folk recipes

A shrub or small tree with black colored fruits is used for food, decorative and medicinal purposes as an anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, laxative and diuretic.

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Flower formula

Black elderberry flower formula: *CH5L(5)T5P5.

In medicine

Infusions of black elderberry flowers and fruits are used in medicine for colds as a diaphoretic for chronic bronchitis and sore throats; as a diuretic - for kidney diseases, and also as a laxative. A decoction of flowers is used externally for skin rashes, conjunctivitis and inflammatory processes for rinsing the mouth and throat; in the form of lotions, baths and poultices for hemorrhoids, myositis, joint pain, boils, burns and wounds. In homeopathy, the alcoholic essence of leaves and flowers is used for arthritis, rheumatism, fevers, respiratory diseases, bronchial asthma, coronary heart disease, pharyngitis and neuralgia.

Classification

Black elderberry (lat. Sambucus nigra L.) - belongs to a small number of species (400) of the honeysuckle family (lat. Caprifoliaceae). Elderberry genus (lat. Sambucus) - widely known, its representatives are large shrubs with pinnately compound leaves.

Botanical description

Black elderberry is a shrub or small tree reaching a height of 2 - 6 m. Young branches are green, then become brownish-gray, with a large number of yellowish lenticels. The leaves are opposite (20-30 cm long), odd-pinnate with 3-7 leaflets on very short petioles, oblong-ovate, long-pointed, with a broadly wedge-shaped base, unequally serrated at the edges. The upper surface of the leaf is dark green, the lower surface is lighter. Stipules fall off early. The flowers are small yellowish-white, sessile or on peduncles, collected in large corymbose inflorescences. Black elderberry flower formula: *CH5L(5)T5P5. The fruit is a juicy, berry-shaped drupe. It differs from other species in the black color of the fruit. It blooms in May-June, bears fruit in August-September. The black-purple fruits ripen late, at the end of September, sometimes even in November, when the leaves have already turned yellow. Black elderberry is a shade-tolerant plant. Reproduces vegetatively, by root suckers and seeds.

Spreading

Black elderberry ( Sambucus nigra L.) is found in the central chernozem regions of Russia, mainly in the undergrowth of broad-leaved forests and among bushes. It is widespread in the forests of the southern part of the European part. It grows wild in the Baltic states, from the upper reaches of the Dnieper - south to the Crimea and Transcaucasia. In addition, it is found in Ukraine, Belarus, southwestern Russia, and southern Siberia. It grows less frequently in coniferous forests, among shrubs, in overgrown cutting areas, in forest plantations and forest belts. Bred in parks and gardens.

Regions of distribution on the map of Russia.

Procurement of raw materials

The main medicinal raw materials are flowers, less often fruits, leaves, young branches, bark and roots. Flowers are collected during the period of full bloom before the corollas begin to shed. Dry in special dryers at a temperature of 30-35°C or in the shade under a canopy, in attics with good ventilation, laying out in a thin layer on bedding until the inflorescence branches become brittle. The fruits are harvested when they are fully ripe in August-September. Whole bunches are cut, laid out in a thin layer, dried in air, and then dried in dryers, ovens, ovens at a temperature of 60-65°C. Elderberry roots are collected at the end of autumn, dried, and ground into powder. The bark is harvested from two-year-old branches in early spring before sap flow, cleared of glands, scraped off the top gray layer, separated from the core and dried also in dryers, ovens, ovens at a temperature of 65-70°C.

Chemical composition

Black elderberry flowers contain flavonoids, organic acids (malic, acetic, valeric, chlorogenic), terpenes, glucoside sambunigrin, sambucin, rutin; essential oil, vitamin C, antiseptics - benzaldehyde and cinnate. The bark contains essential oil, choline, phytosterol. Elderberry fruits contain ascorbic acid, 2.8% glucose, 2.5% fructose, malic acid, vitamin C, 0.31% tannins, carotene, anthocyanin. Unripe fruits and leaves contain the poisonous glycoside sambunigrin (breaks down into hydrocyanic acid and benzaldehyde). Green leaves contain essential oil, aldehydes, ascorbic acid, carotene, and dried leaves contain provitamin A. The seeds contain fatty oil.

Pharmacological properties

The pharmacological action of different parts of black elderberry differs depending on their composition and dosage. All parts have diuretic properties; diaphoretic and anti-inflammatory - bark, leaves, flowers, fruits. The anti-inflammatory property is due to the presence of flavonoids. The flowers have analgesic properties. Due to their diuretic properties, a decoction of flowers and leaves is effective in the treatment of chronic renal failure. In gynecology, an infusion of flowers is used internally for certain diseases of the vagina. Infusions of elderflower flowers, in addition to diaphoretic, have analgesic, sedative and weak hypotensive effects, and also normalize the function of the adrenal cortex. Fruits, as well as bark and roots in large dosages have laxative properties.

Use in folk medicine

Black elderberry was known as a medicinal plant back in the Middle Ages. In folk medicine, black elderberry has received even wider use. Infusion, decoction, juice, poultices, baths of black elderberry raw materials are used internally and externally as a diaphoretic tonic, antipyretic, sedative, expectorant, choleretic, laxative, diuretic, anti-inflammatory agent for diseases of the kidneys and bladder, ascites (dropsy), respiratory diseases , women's diseases, diabetes mellitus, gastric ulcer, etc.

Historical reference

In ancient times, among the Germanic and Slavic peoples, black elderberry was considered a sacred plant, but with the opposite effect. Unripe black elderberry fruits are poisonous, they contain hydrocyanic acid, ripe ones are quite safe, however, they must be used after drying or heat treatment.

Literature

1. State Pharmacopoeia of the USSR. Eleventh edition. Issue 1 (1987), issue 2 (1990).

2. State Register of Medicines. Moscow 2004.

3. Medicinal plants of the state pharmacopoeia. Pharmacognosy. (Ed. I.A. Samylina, V.A. Severtsev). - M., “AMNI”, 1999.

4. Ilyina T.A. Medicinal plants of Russia (Illustrated encyclopedia). - M., "EXMO" 2006.

5. Zamyatina N.G. Medicinal plants. Encyclopedia of Russian nature. M. 1998.

6. Kyosev P.A. Medicinal plants (the most complete reference book). M. "EXMO". 2011.

7. Mashkovsky M.D. "Medicines." In 2 volumes - M., Novaya Volna Publishing House LLC, 2000.

8. “Herbal medicine with the basics of clinical pharmacology”, ed. V.G. Kukesa. - M.: Medicine, 1999.

9. P.S. Chikov. “Medicinal plants” M.: Medicine, 2002.

10. Sokolov S.Ya., Zamotaev I.P. Handbook of medicinal plants (herbal medicine). - M.: VITA, 1993.

11. Mannfried Palov. "Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants". Ed. Ph.D. biol. Sciences I.A. Gubanova. Moscow, "Mir", 1998.

12. Turova A.D. "Medicinal plants of the USSR and their use." Moscow. "Medicine". 1974.

13. Lesiovskaya E.E., Pastushenkov L.V. "Pharmacotherapy with the basics of herbal medicine." Tutorial. - M.: GEOTAR-MED, 2003.

14. Medicinal plants: Reference manual. / N.I. Grinkevich, I.A. Balandina, V.A. Ermakova and others; Ed. N.I. Grinkevich - M.: Higher School, 1991. - 398 p.

15. Plants for us. Reference manual / Ed. G.P. Yakovleva, K.F. Blinova. - Publishing house "Educational Book", 1996. - 654 p.

16. Medicinal plant raw materials. Pharmacognosy: Textbook. allowance / Ed. G.P. Yakovlev and K.F. Blinova. - St. Petersburg: SpetsLit, 2004. - 765 p.

17. Tsitsin N.V. Atlas of medicinal plants of the USSR. M. 1962.

18. Shantser I.A. Plants of central European Russia. Field atlas. M. 2007.

Black elderberry is a wonder of nature, its medicinal properties are a real phenomenon. The tall bush, which blooms with milky flowers in May-June, has a delightful aroma, and in late August-early September bears fruit - small berries collected in clusters. And although elderberry cannot be compared in beauty with other similar ornamental bushes and trees, for example, viburnum, the huge amount of beneficial substances contained in this valuable product puts it on the same level with the most useful plants of our latitudes. Wild bird cherry grows in deep forests and in courtyards near houses, as well as along river banks and in parks. Elderberry is an unpretentious plant that grows successfully everywhere.

It also has another name, for example Buzovnik, Sambuc, Wasteland, Pishchalnik.

Historians confirm the use of Buzovnik back in prehistoric times, because its bones, along with other “leftovers,” were found during excavations at Neolithic sites. In the old days, it was revered as sacred, and the testes were considered the elixir of youth, beauty and longevity; it was believed that they increased skin tone, cleansed the blood and body in general, and restored hormonal balance. In ancient times, elderberries were specially grown, carefully collecting precious preparations. Pliny also advised everyone to use the Bose tree during colds.

Today, we have unfortunately forgotten about the healing qualities it provides, although in many other countries they know, remember, and successfully use it. Therefore, a wild weed grows, silently concealing within itself the great secret of longevity.

Sambucus nigra, family of honeysuckles or adoxaceae, class deciduous. A shrub or small tree, ranging from 3 to 10 meters in height.

• The trunk is up to 30 centimeters in diameter.
• The crown is round, spreading, dense.
• The bark is a characteristic distinctive feature; on old trunks it is ash-brown with deep axial cracks, and on young trunks it is darker, gray-brown, with countless yellow lentils. Fresh shoots inside have a soft, snow-white core.
• The flowers are small, very fragrant, fluffy. Five-petalled, milky white, sometimes with a yellow tint, arranged in inflorescences.
• Elderberry leaves are complexly constructed. They are large, beautifully shaped, up to 30 centimeters in length, oblong, opposite, with 5-7 lanceolate lobes pointed at the end with a serrated edge. Dark green above, lighter below. They also have a peculiarity - they begin to emit a rather unpleasant aroma when touched. They say that flies do not like this smell, and therefore Wasteland is recommended to be planted near toilets and manure pits.
• The fruits are plump, dark purple, berry-shaped drupes with 2–4 wrinkled seeds.

The shrub grows in the shade, but is heat-loving, and does not survive as easily in severe winters as the red or cluster elderberry, but it grows quickly and recovers instantly in the summer. It grows in subtropical and temperate warm zones around the world - North Africa, the Caucasus, Crimea, the Sea of ​​Azov, Asia, Europe, and our region. Lifespan is about 60 years.

Contains rich biologically active elements:

• glucose, fructose
• glucoside
• acids - malic, ascorbic, acetic, valeric
• tanning materials
• essential oils
• routine
• terpene
• benzaldehyde
• resins
• potassium
• calcium
• magnesium
• vitamin A, C
• tyrosine

And others - macroelements, microelements, vitamins, flavonoids, triterpenoids.

How to collect and prepare raw materials for the winter

It is possible to use everything for medicinal purposes; the preparation of individual elderberry components occurs at different times, namely:

• flowers - harvesting takes place at the height of flowering, when it is warm and dry outside. After collection, it is necessary to separate the flowers from the peduncle and dry thoroughly. Subsequently, they are crushed and stored in cool, dry places for about 2 years. The intermediate product combines a pleasant aroma and slightly sweet taste.
• fruits - harvested when fully ripe, cut in whole bunches. The picked ones are first dried in the fresh air - preferably in the wind, then dried in a dryer at high temperature, and only then separated from the branches. They are moderately sweet, slightly slimy. Shelf life - 6 months.
• bark - collection is possible at the very beginning of spring, before the spring release of juice. It must be peeled from the core, the top layer removed, and dried at high temperature. Can be stored for up to 3 years.
• roots are obtained in the fall. Cleaned, dried and crushed. Store for up to 5 years.

Food is best preserved in canvas bags or paper bags.

Medicinal properties and contraindications

Like any plant that has healing properties, Bazovnik can give a person a lot. What exactly are its benefits and harms we will consider below.

Wasteland has the following pharmacological qualities:

• diaphoretic - due to the presence of sambunigrin glycoside
• antifever
• diuretic
• disinfectant
• laxative
• expectorant
• astringent
• regulating carbohydrate metabolism
• hypoglycemic effect
• anti-inflammatory thanks to rutin, which minimizes the permeability of vascular walls

In order to be able to use the gift of nature with maximum benefit, you need to understand in detail which ingredients are most effective in which cases.

So, flowers, in particular an infusion of them, are good for burns and wounds, including purulent ones, for diaper rash, gout, and also during colds. To get rid of problems with the epithelium, local application in the form of compresses and lotions is possible. In other cases, oral exposure of 50 ml three times a day is recommended. During a cough, use useful inhalations and rinse. Warm tea will help solve kidney problems.

The berry has a beneficial effect on the stomach, liver, intestines, promotes the removal of gallstones, and also treats the uterus in women - with uterine fibroids, endometriosis and mastopathy. In addition, along with blueberries, they promote the functioning of the visual system. A healing decoction is brewed from them and infusions are made at a minimum temperature and exposure time in order to preserve the maximum of useful substances.

The roots are recommended for patients with diabetes, people prone to swelling, during migraines and severe headaches. They also provide assistance in restoring problems with the respiratory system and neurology. They are prepared by boiling, and the resulting solution is consumed; in addition, it helps to normalize stool.

Buzok is often good in cosmetology, helping to get rid of various kinds of rashes, cleansing and toning the skin and helping to reduce the appearance of freckles.

There are also contraindications that you must know:

• pregnancy
• lactation
• Crohn's disease
• acute diseases of the digestive system

The use of elderberry in the treatment of diseases

Cases have already been discussed above when taking this miraculous remedy can be useful. But I would like to dwell in more detail on some of them.

For uterine fibroids - how to treat, recipes

Very often, women between the ages of 30 and 55 suffer from such an unpleasant and dangerous disease. In this case, the disease is very often diagnosed after it has reached a fairly large size. The tumor is the formation of nodes, and the woman is plagued by bleeding. The disease is very dangerous and unpleasant. With its appearance, medical assistance is always necessary without exception. Traditional treatment can be combined with traditional treatment after consultation with the attending physician, obtaining excellent results.

The recipe for the medicine is simple: place a 2-centimeter layer of berries on the bottom of a glass dish. Sprinkle a layer of sugar on top. And so on, sequentially pouring one at a time. Place the container in a dark place until the juice is actively released. Strain the syrup and pour into bottles. Store in the refrigerator. You need to take a tablespoon on an empty stomach, after drinking a glass of water, three times a day. Admission period: 1.5 months. Thus, this method acts directly to reduce the size of the formation or even eliminate it.

Berries for cancer

Buz is officially recognized by medicine as a medicinal method that has a positive effect on the human body against various types of diseases.

There is evidence of the antitumor activity of elderberry juices, liqueurs, jelly and jam.

This is justified as follows:

• Cyanides have a moderate effect on the body, and the achenes contain natural vitamin complexes and biostimulants that help cancer patients with intoxication.
• Cancer cells and hormone-dependent tumors contain large quantities of beta-glucosidase, which affects amygdalin and decomposes it with the appearance of hydrocyanic acid. Thus, the poison acts directly on the tumor, with virtually no effect on healthy tissue.
• Amygdalin and sambunigrin are not as toxic, unlike the official drugs of classical chemotherapy.

There is a lot of information where berries prepared according to a special recipe helped defeat an insidious disease. But it is worth noting that there is not a single clinically proven case where a cancer patient recovered through such therapy. But cases of poisoning with hydrocyanic acid during “treatment” have been registered and definitely occur. Therefore, before you start using elderberry, you need to think carefully, and only then make an informed decision.

Here are some recipes for healing cancer:

• Tincture

Wash fresh elderberries and sprinkle with sugar in a glass container. Leave for 2 weeks until abundant juice is formed. Strain and drink a tablespoon three times a day after meals. For prevention, take once a year for a month and a half, and for treatment - three such courses with a break of a month.

• Berry decoction

Place 35 grams of dried raw materials in a liter container, pour boiling water to the top, put on fire and boil, boil for 5 minutes, leave for a quarter to an hour. Take a quarter glass before meals.

• Decoction of leaves

Elderberry leaves and 5 grams of dry sage, mix, pour 200 ml of boiling water, leave and add tbsp. a spoonful of honey. Drink a quarter glass 3 times a day.

• Wine

Add sugar to juice. Close the lid and install the water seal. Leave to ferment in a cool place. Pour into a bottle. Drink 55 grams before meals. Sugar can be replaced with honey.

• Infusion of flowers

Pour a tablespoon of raw material into a glass of boiling water and leave for 20 minutes. Drink 50 grams 3 times a day.

For women's health, beauty and immunity

An amazing gift of nature, Pishchalnik comes to the aid of women all over the planet for beauty and health. It is good for facial skin care as masks and lotions, and regular use cleanses the body of toxins and rejuvenates all tissues.

In gynecology, elderberry helps to normalize the functioning of the genitourinary system and cure tumors.

Widely used as a way to strengthen the immune system, destroying viruses and bacteria. Used as a prophylaxis and treatment for ARVI.

There are also official medicines based on the fruits of the Sambucol bush. This is an original black elderberry extract that has a pleasant taste, provides natural support for the immune system, and can be used even in children over 2 years of age.

Use for diabetes mellitus

The health-promoting elderberry bush helps diabetics get relief from the blood. Its healing properties are the result of the presence of the maximum amount of useful substances in its composition.

You can prepare the medicine using the following recipes:

• Flower decoction - mix 20g of the preparation with 300 ml of water, cook for 5 minutes, leave for 10 minutes. Use a quarter cup strained several times a day.

• Root decoction - 15 g of root and bark powder, pour in 1 liter of water, bring to a boil and cook for 20 minutes. Drink a third of a cup before meals.

Elderberry is a shrubby plant that is often used in landscape design to form hedges, and is also often found growing wild. It is widely used in folk medicine. Flowers, fruits, bark, roots and leaves of the plant are used to prepare medicinal compositions. In addition, elderberry can be used to make desserts and drinks.

Types of elderberry

The elderberry genus, which belongs to the honeysuckle family, includes more than 40 plant species. No more than 10 of them can grow in central Russia. In the northern regions, this plant does not survive due to severe frosts. The most common varieties in Russia are red and black varieties.

Red

Red elderberry was brought to Russia from Western Europe, where this shrub is often found in the undergrowth of forests growing on mountain slopes. This variety can grow as either a small tree or a bush with a wide crown. The height of the shrub reaches no more than 5 m. The leaves are arranged in bunches of 7 pieces. They have an elongated, pointed shape. The flowering period is 18-20 days.

The berries ripen by the end of July. The small fruits have a rich red hue when ripe.

This plant tolerates pruning well and grows quickly in moist soils. The shrub easily tolerates shade. If it grows under a tree, the color of the leaves will be dark green. If it grows in an open space, the foliage will take on a yellowish tint.

Black elderberry is an unpretentious shrub. Many species of this plant have been bred. Wild varieties can grow on almost any soil and tolerate long droughts and severe frosts. Decorative types of shrubs are more whimsical. The shrub reaches 3-4 m in height. This variety has large leaves. The inflorescences are yellowish-green in color. The berries ripen in early August.

Features of black elderberry

Among the wide variety of elderberry crops, which includes both herbaceous plants and small trees, the chokeberry variety is especially valued. The Latin name of the plant is Sambukus nigra. In many regions, the fruits of this shrub are considered poisonous. The basis for this misconception is the fact that unripe fruits contain substances harmful to the human body, but for them to have a toxic effect, you need to eat a lot of them.

Ripe fruits are not only almost safe, but also have a number of healing properties.

The chemical composition of elderberry may vary slightly depending on the characteristics of the soil in which the bush grows.

Botanical description

The first botanical descriptions of this plant were made back in the 17th century. In most cases, the plant forms a bush, but can also grow as a small tree. It is characterized by rapid growth. In just 3-5 years it can reach 3 m in height. In rare cases, black elderberry grows up to 7 m.

During flowering, the shrub is covered with large inflorescences. Small flowers, characterized by a round shape, are collected in inflorescences in the form of flat brushes. Their color can vary from beige to yellow.

The flowers have a sweet aroma that attracts pollinating insects. After a long flowering period, many fruits are formed. The berries are round in shape. Ripe berries reach 1 cm in diameter. They become juicy. Each of them contains 3 bones.

The root system is not very developed. It is located below the surface of the soil. The roots go deep to about 1 m. The plant reproduces by layering, shoots, rhizomes and even stems. The seeds of the plant are viable. They sprout approximately 2 years after sowing.

Geography and distribution

This plant has good decorative qualities, so its spread has been promoted by people who plant it in gardens and orchards, as well as in park areas. Under natural conditions, the shrub is found in the lower tier of the forest. Elderberry can often be found in deciduous forests near water bodies.

The plant is often found in temperate latitudes. The largest population of this shrub grows in Ukraine and Russia. It can often be found in the Caucasus.

This plant was introduced to the Far East. Thanks to human activity, this plant has spread to Canada, the USA, Japan, China and some other regions.

Composition and properties

The healing properties of elderberry vary slightly depending on the type of raw material. All parts of the plant are used in folk medicine.

The biologically active components contained in this plant are believed to have the following effects:

• diuretic;
• diaphoretic;
• antimicrobial;
• expectorant;
• anti-inflammatory;
• laxative
• sedative;
• vasodilator;
• choleretic.

In addition, the active compounds present in elderberry have a strong antioxidant effect. It is believed that the correct use of products from this plant helps to normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and improve metabolic processes.

The vitamins and minerals present in the berries of this plant can be effectively used to eliminate vitamin deficiency. The concentration of beneficial substances in different parts is heterogeneous, so different components are used to treat certain diseases.

The fruits are especially rich in healing substances. Their highest content is in ripe black berries. Even dried fruits contain a large amount of active substances. Elderberries contain the following healing substances:

• vitamin C;
• organic acids;
• routine;
• carotene;
• glucose;
• Sambucyanin;
• chrysanthemum;
• tannins.

The flowers contain the following active components:

• essential oils;
• slime;
• routine;
• tannins;
• choline;
• organic acids;
• glucose;
• terpenes;
• carotene;
• vitamin A.

The roots and bark of the plant contain saponins. These substances have a pronounced expectorant and diuretic effect.

In addition, the bark and roots of the plant contain high levels of:

• essential oils;
• phytosterol;
• choline;
• betulin;
• tannins;
• triterpenes;
• pectins, etc.

The leaves also have a high content of active substances, so they are used in the treatment of various diseases. The composition of this plant material includes aldehydes and sambunigrin. In addition, the leaves of the plant contain compounds such as coniine and sanvinar. When these substances enter the human body in large quantities, they can cause paralysis of nerve endings.

Elderberry leaves contain vitamins and organic acids. When used in small doses, products based on this herbal component have an anti-inflammatory effect. Often such compositions are used to treat the skin. The seeds of the plant contain large quantities of fatty oils.

Nutritional value and calorie content

Elderberry can be classified as a dietary product. Approximately 80% of the berries are water. The calorie content of the product is only 73 kcal. Roots, bark and leaves have lower calorie content, which ranges from 12-30 kcal.

Collection and preparation

All parts of this plant have beneficial properties, but the flowers and ripe fruits are of greatest value. The collection of various components of the plant is carried out throughout the year. Flowers are picked in the spring. After that they must be dried slowly, because... This approach will preserve the maximum amount of nutritional compounds in them.

The fruits are collected in August–September. They are suitable for various preparations for the winter, but if necessary they can be dried in the oven. Leaves can be collected throughout the warm season. The bark of the plant is collected in the spring. It is dried. The roots need to be harvested in the fall after the leaves have dropped.

Where can I buy – price

In pharmacies you can purchase prepared flowers and dried fruits of the plant. The price for them ranges from 35 to 250 rubles. Leaves, roots and bark can be purchased from traditional healers who independently prepare these herbal ingredients. The cost of these components ranges from 50 to 200 rubles.

Chemical composition of black elderberry

Black elderberry is rich in vitamins, minerals and biologically active substances. The berries have a high content of dietary fiber, reaching 7 g per 100 g of raw material. In addition, this plant product is high in carbohydrates and ash. The berries contain unsaturated fatty acids, water and proteins.

Main substances present in elderberry

The most studied fruits are the elderberry, in which a lot of substances useful for the human body have been identified. Micro and macroelements present in this herbal ingredient include:

• selenium;
• calcium;
• magnesium;
• copper;
• phosphorus;
• iron;
• potassium;
• zinc;
• sodium.

The berries are high in vitamins B, C, A and PP. Other compounds are present in the fruits of this plant in smaller quantities.

Useful and healing properties

The benefits of elderberry are due to the content of active compounds in certain parts of it. At the same time, this plant also contains a high content of some compounds that can harm the human body if products based on this plant are improperly prepared and used. Elderberry berries, the medicinal properties of which are recognized even by official medicine, are most often used in the treatment of colds, vitamin deficiencies and pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. The benefits for these diseases are great.

The use of a berry-based product allows you to quickly suppress existing pathology. This herbal component is also used in the treatment of pathologies and cardiovascular disorders. Elderberry bark, roots and leaves are used to treat skin and joint diseases. Infusions and decoctions of these parts of the plant can quickly suppress the inflammatory process and eliminate other existing manifestations.

Benefits of flowers

Flower-based products help improve vision. They have a pronounced antioxidant effect. Before using elderberry flowers, the beneficial properties and contraindications of this plant component need to be studied in detail, since it includes a large number of active substances. If used incorrectly, such products can cause harm to the human body.

Tannins have an astringent effect, so the use of flower decoctions is recommended in the treatment of stomatitis.

Active compounds present in the inflorescences of this plant help suppress viruses and bacteria. Preparations based on black elderberry flowers have an enveloping effect, so their use has a beneficial effect on the condition of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract.

Benefits of berries

Eating the fruits of this plant helps improve vision. The active components contained in the berries have a positive effect on blood vessels, reducing their fragility and increasing elasticity. Elderberry berries have a pronounced anti-inflammatory and hemostatic effect.

The consumption of these fruits also has a beneficial effect on the composition of the blood. The mucus and tannins contained in the fruits have a positive effect on the condition of the gastrointestinal tract.

Benefits of roots

The bark and root contain substances that have a pronounced antihemorrhoidal and antidiarrheal effect. These components of black elderberry are often used in the treatment of skin diseases. Products based on these herbal components can be used to eliminate some cosmetic defects. These parts of the plant can be used to a limited extent to eliminate certain pathologies of the digestive system.

Beauty benefits

Eating black elderberry helps saturate the body with nutrients, which has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, nails and hair. The fruits are often used to cleanse pores of subcutaneous fat. Masks based on leaves and bark have a drying effect on the skin.

Harm and contraindications

Black elderberry has a lot of contraindications. Its fruits and products from this plant should not be used by people with inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Taking infusions and decoctions of this plant is especially dangerous for Crohn's disease. People suffering from kidney failure should not consume elderberry.

A contraindication for the use of herbal remedies based on this plant is a tendency to allergic reactions. Women should not use infusions and decoctions based on this plant during pregnancy and lactation. Treatment with this plant for children under 12 years of age is not recommended.

If you have chronic diseases, a person should consult a doctor before using products based on this plant to reduce the risk of exacerbations and side effects.

This plant is classified as conditionally poisonous, because It contains sambunigrin and coniine. These are toxic compounds. Eating large quantities of the berries of this plant can cause severe poisoning.

Nutritional value and calorie content of berries

Elderberries are the most nutritious part of the plant. In its raw form, 100 g contains 73 kcal. Cooking berries without sugar reduces calorie content to 38 kcal. Many vitamins are destroyed under the influence of elevated temperatures. Thus, after heat treatment, the positive properties of elderberry are slightly reduced.

How to collect and store medicinal raw materials?

To prepare medicinal compositions, you need to properly prepare and store individual parts of the plant. During the period of mass dissolution of inflorescences, you can begin to collect them. It is recommended to cut off the inflorescences with the stem. They are characterized by increased meatiness, as they contain a lot of moisture.

The inflorescences should be tied with stems and hung to dry in a cool, well-ventilated area. In such conditions, the raw materials will dry for a long time. This will allow you to retain the maximum amount of nutrients in it. After drying, the inflorescences can be stored for 5 years.

Only mature black fruits are suitable for collection and further harvesting. It is advisable to dry the berries in an oven at a temperature of 60°C. The berries will lose a lot in volume due to the removal of liquid from them, but with this processing they retain most of the beneficial substances. At the same time, it must be taken into account that not all water evaporates during such drying, which negatively affects the shelf life of the product.

It is recommended to store dried berries in a fabric bag in a dry and well-ventilated place. The shelf life of this herbal component is no more than 6 months. In this case, it is necessary to stir the berries regularly. If the slightest sign of mold appears, the fruits should be thrown away.

For further harvesting, you need to take young leaves. You can cut whole branches with 3-5 young leaves. After this, they need to be tied into brooms and hung to dry in the attic or other room where there is air movement, but there is no access to direct sunlight. If desired, the leaves can be dried without branches. In this case, the torn raw materials must be laid out on paper and placed in direct sunlight.

Dried leaves should be moved to a shaded place until completely dry. You can store raw materials in canvas bags and glass jars.

The roots are harvested in the fall, when the maximum amount of nutrients accumulates in them. You need to dig them up carefully. You should not collect more than 2 kg of roots from one bush in one season. They need to be cleaned of dirt and then placed to dry in a well-ventilated area. When the roots are dry, they can be stored in a fabric bag. They need to be washed and crushed before use.

The bark begins to be harvested in early spring, when the movement of juices just begins. It needs to be cleaned from young branches. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that at least half of the bark remains on the branch. Otherwise she will die. The bark should be dried in the shade. Well-dried raw materials should be stored in a glass container or canvas bag. The shelf life of well-dried bark is 3 years.

Pharmacy preparations based on elderberry

Pharmacies sell many elderberry-based products. If desired, you can purchase dried flowers in packages of 15, 40 and 50 g. In addition, syrup is widely popular, which is often used as a general tonic for colds. The syrup produced by Vivasan received especially positive reviews. It is prepared from the flowers and fruits of the plant. In pharmacies you can find dietary supplements in the form of tablets and capsules designed to maintain visual health.

Application in official and folk medicine. Recipes

Official medicine recognizes the medicinal properties of elderberry fruits and flowers. These components are used to obtain extracts and infusions for external and internal use. More often, these compounds are prescribed as general strengthening agents for colds and viral diseases and infectious pathologies of the ENT organs. These compounds are used to a limited extent in the treatment of neuralgia. Rarely, compositions based on the berries and flowers of the plant are prescribed for inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract and kidneys.

All parts of the plant have been used in folk medicine.

Traditional healers prepare infusions, decoctions, lotions and teas based on them. In folk medicine, wine extract, jam, freshly squeezed juice and even seed oil are used.

These recipes are used for a wide range of diseases. Infusions of leaves of flowers and fruits can be used in the treatment of furunculosis, acne and for rubbing joints with arthritis.

Healing compositions based on bark and roots are used for local treatment of affected areas of the skin. They can also be used internally to eliminate signs of atherosclerosis and normalize the functioning of the intestines and bladder. Hemorrhoids are treated with a decoction of the leaves in milk. This product is also used as a lotion for diaper rash and burns. Infusions and decoctions based on elderberry flowers and berries are used in the treatment of colds.

Infusion of flowers for drinking

An infusion of flowers for internal use is used to suppress inflammatory processes and the activity of pathogenic microflora. This product can be added to tea to give the drink a tonic effect. To prepare the product you need approximately 2 tbsp. Place the flowers of the plant in a thermos and pour 500 ml of boiling water.

Infuse the product for 40 minutes. After this, you should drink the healing composition throughout the day. When you have a cold, you should drink the remedy in small sips. In this case, you must adhere to bed rest. To achieve a diuretic effect, the infusion should be drunk within 2 days. Drink ½ glass 3 times a day.

Infusion of flowers for external treatments

An infusion of flowers can be used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the external genitalia and for the treatment of damaged skin. Thanks to its pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, this remedy helps to quickly eliminate existing symptomatic manifestations of damage to the skin and mucous membranes.

To prepare this product you need 4 tbsp. Place dried flowers in a thermos and pour 0.5 liters of boiling water. Infuse the product for 20 minutes and then strain. The composition can be used for douching and sitz baths. This infusion should not be used during menstruation.

Laxative infusion of fruits

An infusion based on black elderberry berries enhances intestinal motility, so this remedy is effective in combating chronic constipation. To prepare the infusion you need approximately 3 tbsp. Pour dry berries into a container and pour 200 ml of boiling water. The container with the infusion must be covered with a lid and wrapped in a terry towel. The composition should be infused for 12 hours. This remedy should be taken 1 glass every morning. If necessary, you can add a little honey to the infusion to improve the taste.

Leaves poultice

Poultices based on leaves have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. This remedy promotes faster healing of wounds and burns. Poultices can be used both in the treatment of clean wounds and in the treatment of defects complicated by bacterial infection. This remedy can also be used in the treatment of prolapsed hemorrhoids.

To carry out poultices, pour in approximately 3 tbsp. crushed dry leaves 200 ml hot milk. The composition must be boiled for 10 minutes. After this, the product should be cooled and strained. Leaves must be placed on the damaged surface. Such poultices can be done 2 times a day.

Decoction for compresses

To prepare compresses, a decoction based on the roots and leaves of this plant is used. To enhance the effect, you can additionally include chamomile in the composition. This remedy is effective in the treatment of dermatological diseases and joint pathologies.

To prepare a decoction intended for further compresses, you need to pour 50 g of crushed elderberry roots and 10 g of chamomile into 300 ml of boiling water. The composition should be boiled for 15 minutes and then filtered. Soak gauze folded several times in the resulting broth and apply to the affected area.

Tincture for compresses

Elderberry tincture for compresses is used in the treatment of dermatological diseases. To prepare this product you will need 2 tbsp. chopped leaves and 3 tbsp. flowers. Plant components should be placed in a thermos and pour 300 ml of boiling water.

The composition must be infused for 12 hours. The finished product is filtered. Gauze is soaked in it, which must be applied to the damaged areas for 1.5 hours. Such compresses can be used 2-3 times a day.

Healing properties for cancer

If it is necessary to treat malignant neoplasms, you cannot rely on herbal preparations. Elderberry-based formulations can only be used as adjuncts. It is believed that the syrup and ground fruits are effective against prostate and stomach cancer. To prepare cancer syrup, you need to place a 1.5 cm layer of berries on the bottom of a glass jar. It needs to be sprinkled with sugar.

Subsequent layers are laid out in the same way until the container is filled. The last layer should be a layer of sugar. The jar must be covered with gauze and placed in a cool, dark place for 4 weeks. After this, the syrup must be filtered and subsequently stored in the refrigerator. It is necessary to use the product 1 tbsp. 10 minutes before meals. The course of treatment with this drug is 45 days.

Ground elderberry for stomach cancer

For malignant tumors of the stomach, it is recommended to use fresh fruits, ground with sugar in a ratio of 1:3. The composition must be taken 1 tsp. 5-6 times a day. It is best to use the product before meals. This will increase its effectiveness and reduce the risk of adverse reactions. For stomach cancer, this folk remedy can only be used as an addition to complex therapy. Before using elderberry for this cancer, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Infusion of bark for swelling

An infusion based on the bark can reduce the intensity of edema in a number of kidney pathologies. It is believed that this remedy allows you to quickly remove excess fluid from the body, but does not lead to disturbances in the functioning of the cardiovascular system, incl. blood pressure surges.

To prepare the medicinal product, it is necessary to grind the bark of the bush to a powder state. After this, about 1 tsp. powder should be poured into 400 ml of boiling water. The mixture must be infused in a thermos for 3 hours and then strained. The product should be taken ½ cup 4 times a day. The duration of treatment is 2 weeks. After this you need to take a break.

Benefits for women's health

Elderberry remedies can be used to support women's health. Decoctions of flowers and fruits are recommended for douching for inflammatory diseases of the genital organs. Porridge of berries can be effectively used to eliminate acne that occurs as a result of hormonal imbalances in a woman’s body.

Decoction recipe for treating joint diseases

To eliminate the manifestations of arthritis, you can use a decoction that contains elderberry, nettle and parsley root. To prepare the product, mix these plant components in equal proportions. Approximately 2 tbsp. collection, pour 0.5 liters of boiling water. You need to boil the product for 3-5 minutes. The decoction should be taken ½ cup 2 times before meals. You can store the composition in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, but it is advisable to prepare it fresh.

To relieve joint pain, you can use a decoction of flowers. To prepare the product, pour approximately 1 tbsp. vegetable ingredient 250 ml boiling water. The composition is boiled for 2-3 minutes, and then cooled and filtered. You need to take the decoction 50-70 ml 3 times a day before meals.

Berry syrup for osteochondrosis

Elderberries are used to make syrup. Sprinkle approximately 1 kg of ripe fruit with 300 g of sugar. The mixture should be left for about 3 days. After this, you need to drain the syrup and use it for medicinal purposes. To achieve a positive effect in osteochondrosis, this remedy must be taken 1 tsp. 3 times a day. The active substances contained in the syrup help eliminate inflammation and pain. This remedy helps saturate cartilage tissue with vitamins and minerals, which helps slow down degenerative processes.

Elderberry tincture and extract

The tincture, like the plant extract, is used for many diseases. Tinctures are often used in the treatment of digestive disorders, heart and kidney pathologies. To prepare the product, pour approximately 1 cup of berries into 0.5 liters of boiling water. The product must be infused for 1 hour and then filtered. Take 1 tbsp black elderberry tincture. before eating.

The extract is used for both internal and external use.

The leaves and roots of the plant are suitable for preparing the product. Approximately 150 plant components should be poured into 0.5 liters of vodka. The composition should be heated to a temperature of 60 °C. After this, the product should be moved to a warm place for 2 weeks. After this, the extract must be filtered and used to treat existing pathologies.

Constipation Treatments

There are several elderberry-based formulations that are used to treat chronic constipation. An infusion of the berries of this plant gives a good effect. To prepare it, approximately 10 g of ripe fruits should be poured with 250 ml of boiling water and boiled for at least 10 minutes. After this, the product is infused for an hour. The liquid should be expressed and consumed every day, ½ cup.

A decoction of the bark has a mild laxative effect. Approximately 5 g of raw material should be poured into a glass of boiling water. The composition should be infused in a thermos for 5 hours. The finished product must be filtered and taken 100 ml per day.

Fresh berry extract

Extract from fresh berries allows you to preserve all the healing properties of this plant material. To prepare this product, layers of fruit and honey are placed in a three-liter jar. Each layer should be no more than 1 cm thick. The jar should be tightly closed and left in a dark place for 4 weeks. The drug is used for cancer. Before meals you need to drink 200 ml of water and then eat 1 tbsp. extract.

Longevity drink for diabetes from elderberry

In case of diabetes, drinks based on black elderberry should be used with extreme caution. People suffering from this pathology can benefit from a longevity drink, for the preparation of which you should take 1 tbsp. pour 3 cups of boiling water over the berries and boil the mixture for 5 minutes. The decoction should be left for 10 hours, and then 2 tbsp should be added to it. honey The drink should be consumed ½ glass in the morning on an empty stomach.

Alcohol tincture – black elderberry berries for mastopathy

To prepare a medicinal infusion, you need to mix 1 glass of freshly squeezed juice with the same amount of alcohol. On the first day you need to take 1 drop 3 times a day. Every day the daily dose increases by 1 drop. Take the product until the dose reaches 40 drops. After this, it should also gradually decrease.

Canned elderberry juice for diabetics

Canned juice can be purchased at a herbal pharmacy. To prepare the product, you will need approximately 4 glasses of juice obtained from fresh fruits, mixed with 1 glass of vodka. No sugar should be added. The bottle with the composition should be stored in the refrigerator. The composition should be taken 1 tbsp. 2 times a day.

Elderberry syrup

If necessary, healing elderberry syrup can be prepared at home. To do this, approximately 1 kg of berries should be sprinkled with 200 g of sugar. The berries are left for a day in a warm place. The resulting syrup should be drained and moved for further storage in the refrigerator and use in the treatment of various respiratory diseases and their prevention.

Elderberry jam is not a medicinal product, but a dietary product. To prepare the dessert, you should thoroughly wash and dry about 1 kg of berries, and then sprinkle them with 1 kg of sugar. When the fruits release juice, you need to let the mixture cook. Hot jam is poured into sterilized jars and sealed. The jam can be stored in this form for a long time.

Elderberry jam with apples

Delicious jam is made from apples and elderberries. To prepare the dessert you will need:

• berries – 1 kg;
• apples – 500 g;
• honey – 200 g;
• lemons – 2 pcs.;
• cinnamon – 2 sticks;
• pectin – 2 tsp.

Apples and berries are ground to a mushy state. Boiled and crushed lemons are added to them. Cinnamon is added to the composition. Pectin and honey should be dissolved in a small amount of boiling water. A mixture of lemon, berries and apples is added to these ingredients. Cook the mixture for about 15 more minutes. The finished product must be placed in sterilized jars and sealed.

Wine

Wine from the fruits of the plant is used for medicinal purposes and as a dessert. This drink has specific taste qualities. It is recommended to take it for the prevention of respiratory diseases. It helps eliminate anemia.

Elderberry for respiratory diseases and ARVI

Black elderberry has a general strengthening and antiviral effect, therefore it is often used in the treatment of respiratory diseases. The most commonly used are tea and syrup. The plant's fruit extract can be used to reduce fever, because... it has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Berry tea

To brew tea you need to mix 1 tsp. rosehip and elderberry with 2 tsp. currant and strawberry leaves. Approximately 1 tbsp. collection should be poured with 1 glass of boiling water and left for 15 minutes. Elderberry tea should be drunk warm. You can add honey and sugar.

Cough syrup

To prepare an effective cough syrup, mix 1 kg of berries with 0.5 liters of water. The mixture must be boiled over low heat for 20 minutes. After this, you need to strain the composition. 0.5 kg of sugar is added to the liquid. After this, you need to boil the composition again. The finished product should be stored in the refrigerator and taken 1 tsp for cough.

High temperature extract

At high temperatures, pre-prepared extract of fresh berries should be taken 1 tbsp. 3 times a day. The product must be used for 7 days to facilitate sputum discharge.

Tincture for bronchial asthma

To prepare a remedy from black elderberry, which helps reduce the frequency of bronchial asthma attacks, you need to pour 100 g of dried berries with 200 ml of vodka. The product is infused for 3 days and then filtered. The tincture should be drunk 50 drops before meals 3 times a day. It is advisable to dilute it with water.

Jam

Consuming jam from the fruits of this plant helps reduce the duration of the acute period of ARVI. To prepare this product, you will need approximately 1 kg of ripe fruits, crushed to a pulp, mixed with 2 glasses of water and 1 kg of sugar. After this, the composition is boiled to the desired consistency.

Elderberry honey according to an old recipe

To make honey you will need approximately 300 g of elderflower flowers, about 1 kg of sugar and the same amount of water. Additionally you will need 1 tsp. citric acid. The flowers need to be compacted well into a pan, fill them with water and add sugar. The mixture should be infused for 12 hours. After this, it needs to be cooked for 30 minutes. After the broth has cooled slightly, you need to remove the flowers and squeeze them thoroughly. The composition should be placed on the fire again and simmered over low heat for at least 4 hours until it reaches the required consistency.

Use in cosmetology

Most often, juice and infusion of flowers are used to eliminate inflammatory processes in the skin. Elderberry products can be used as a facial lotion in cases where acne needs to be eliminated. Washing with infusion of flowers allows you to lighten age spots.

Recipes for facial skin care

To prepare the infusion you need 2-3 tbsp. pour 500 ml of boiling water over the flowers. You need to infuse the product for 20 minutes in a thermos. After this, the composition should be filtered and cooled to a temperature comfortable for using the cleanser.

To treat acne, you can use an alcohol tincture of the bark.

To prepare this product you need 50 g of crushed bark and 100 ml of vodka. The product must be infused for 2 weeks. After this, the composition must be filtered and used to wipe the affected areas of the skin.

How to prepare decoctions and infusions at home?

In order for a homemade elderberry remedy to be beneficial, you need to use only high-quality raw materials. If berries or flowers are moldy, they should not be used. It is necessary to follow the recommended proportions when preparing medicinal products from this plant.

How to use it correctly?

Products from the components of this plant can be used for both internal and external use. Tinctures and decoctions can only be used in recommended doses. This will avoid side effects.

Precautionary measures

When using decoctions and infusions of elderberry, you need to take into account that this plant contains toxic substances, so they must be used with extreme caution. You should not take juice, decoction or infusion on a regular basis. The recommended course of treatment is no more than 10 days.

Elderberry is a common plant that is widely used in medicine and pharmaceuticals. However, not everyone knows that not only elderberries, but also their flowers have healing properties, especially for black elderberry flowers. This article is about the beneficial properties and contraindications of elderberry blossom.

Composition of elderberry flowers

The inflorescences of this plant have a complex chemical composition. Elderberry flowers are rich in minerals and various beneficial substances. These include:

• Essential oils
• Glycosides
• Carotene
• Malic, caffeic, ascorbic and valeric acids
• Resins
• Lentosans
• Tannins
• Organic acids
• Isoalomine

Beneficial properties of elderberry blossom

The healing qualities of elderberry have been known since ancient times and have been used to treat various diseases since the time of Hippocrates. For example, it was believed that inhaling the aroma of the flowers of this plant relieves headaches and relieves depression. A decoction of them was recommended for young mothers to increase breast milk.

Elderberry flowers are endowed with a number of healing properties, which determine their widespread use in the field of medicine.

Thus, this inflorescence is characterized by the following pronounced actions:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antipyretic
• Sweatshop
• Diuretic
• Expectorant
• Antibacterial

Elderberry flowers can also provide a slight laxative and analgesic effect. In addition, flowers are used to boost immunity, strengthen capillary walls, dilate blood vessels, increase the body's overall resistance, and also to fight various tumor formations. Using this remedy, you can improve the composition of the blood and increase the hemoglobin content in it.

Elderberry color has a beneficial effect on the digestive system, significantly improving the production of bile and gastric juice.

Elderberry also helps to normalize metabolism in the body, as well as cleanse it of waste and toxins.

Contraindications to consumption of elderberry blossom

Despite the positive qualities and beneficial properties that elderberry flowers have, in some cases their use is highly discouraged. The use of elderberry and its inflorescences is contraindicated in the following cases;

1. For colitis
2. For diabetes insipidus.
3. For chronic intestinal inflammation
4. For chronic diseases of the stomach and digestive system.
5. For Crohn's disease
6. If you are prone to allergic reactions
7. The presence of ulcerative lesions is also a contraindication for the use of elderberry.

In some patients, cases of individual tolerance to certain substances contained in this plant have been recorded. It should be emphasized that excessive and long-term use of elderflower can lead to unwanted side effects such as nausea, vomiting, stomach upset and diarrhea.

Indications for use

Elderberry inflorescences have been used in medicine for many centuries, proving their high effectiveness in treating a number of diseases of various types.

Hippocrates also advised the use of these yellow flowers in cases of “stabbing” in the chest, rheumatism and joint pain.

Modern medicine also recognizes the numerous medicinal properties of the presented plant. Treatment with elderberry flowers is recommended in the following cases:

1. Colds, pneumonia, bronchitis. This remedy helps relieve headaches, eliminate fever, soften cough and relieve inflammation of the mucous membranes. In addition, elderberry inflorescences have a strong expectorant effect.
2. An infusion of dried flowers is recommended for the acute stage of eczema.
3. Edema of various types is eliminated thanks to the diuretic properties of this plant.
4. Haemorrhoids.
5. Inflammation of the genitourinary system.
6. Elderberry flowers can have a sedative and calming effect. For this reason, medicines based on them are widely used for insomnia, neuroses and neuralgia.
7. Atherosclerosis.
8. Various inflammatory processes in the body.
9. Anemia
10. External use of products based on elderberry flowers is recommended for the treatment of all kinds of skin diseases (furunculosis, psoriasis and others), burns, rashes, and ulcerative lesions.
11. This remedy helps alleviate the symptoms of menopause in women.
12. Mastopathy
13. Cataract
14. Rheumatism
15. Pancreatitis
16. Elderberry is also indicated as an adjuvant in the treatment of cancer.
17. Metabolic disorders
18. General weakening and exhaustion of the body.
19. Uterine fibroids
20. Endometriosis

Elderberry color in folk medicine

Traditional medicine actively uses elderberry inflorescences for the treatment and prevention of various diseases. We bring to your attention the most popular and time-tested recipes.

1.Decoction for the treatment of bronchitis. To prepare it, pour two tablespoons of dried flowers into a liter of water, bring to a boil and boil for five minutes. The decoction should be taken half a glass four times a day.

2. The anti-edema remedy is prepared as follows. A tablespoon of inflorescences is poured into a glass of water and boiled for seven minutes. The decoction should be taken one tablespoon three times a day.

3. In case of rheumatism, neuralgia, muscle or joint inflammation, special poultices will help. To prepare them, mix equal amounts of elderberry flowers and chamomile, pour boiling water over them and let steep for about five minutes. Soak a piece of cloth in the resulting infusion and apply it to the sore spot. Keep the lotion until it cools completely.

4.Tea from elderberry inflorescences is considered a universal remedy that can help fight many diseases, strengthen the body and improve immunity. To prepare this vitamin drink, pour a glass of boiling water over two teaspoons of dried flowers and leave for half an hour. After this time, all that remains is to strain the broth and the tea will be ready!

6. Remedy for hemorrhoids. Mix six tablespoons of elderflower with a spoon of medicinal sage, pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture. After a day, strain the infusion and add a teaspoon of honey. It is recommended to drink half a glass twice a day. The course of treatment is three weeks.

7. For skin diseases and burns, lotions based on elder flowers help well. To prepare an effective medicine, pour three tablespoons of inflorescences with a glass of milk and boil for several minutes. Soak a piece of gauze in the resulting liquid and apply it to the damaged area of ​​the skin.

8. An infusion prepared from twenty grams of elderberry flowers and a liter of boiling water is indicated for the treatment of dry cough, arthritis and rheumatism.

9. In case of rheumatic pain, this remedy will help. Mix chamomile and elderberry flowers in equal parts, wrap in a fabric bag, pour boiling water on top and apply to the sore spot. This bag will help relieve toothache and ear pain.

Elderberry flower has numerous healing properties and can be used to treat and prevent various diseases. However, before taking this drug, you should familiarize yourself with its contraindications. Indeed, in some cases, consuming elderberry inflorescences can cause serious damage to health.

Everyone probably remembers the saying about “there is an elderberry in the garden, but there is a man in Kyiv.”

So let's talk about this interesting shrub today.

Black elderberry is still revered by some peoples as a sacred plant.

Based on its fruits, healers and herbalists prepared infusions and decoctions that healed people from many diseases and ailments

Today, the healing power and benefits that black elderberries provide are a little forgotten.

Let's correct this injustice and remember all the beneficial properties of the berries of the tree of fate, as elderberry was called in ancient times. :-)

From this article you will learn:

Black elderberries - beneficial properties and recipes for use

Botanical description

Elderberry grows mainly in the southern regions, in particular along the banks of reservoirs, in forested areas, and near houses.

Most often, it is a branched shrub, the height of which rarely exceeds 3-4 m.

During flowering, multiple milky inflorescences emit an intense, intoxicating aroma.

In modern landscape design it is cultivated as a valuable ornamental plant.

For medicinal purposes, it is customary to use inflorescences, leaves, bark, fruits and roots.

But when to collect raw materials to get maximum benefit?

The healthiest and most delicious berries from the bush are collected in August-September.

The flowers are harvested during the peak of flowering, the bark in the spring, when sap flow begins inside the trunk.

Chemical composition of elderberries

The plant has a rich chemical composition.

The berries contain complex substances such as the rutin-like glycoside aldrin, the glycoside sambunigrin, sugars, paraffin-like components, and mucus.

In addition, there are organic acids, such as chlorogenic, malic, valeric, caffeic; choline, tanning components, isoamylamines, carotene, ethyl isobutyl.

Phytosterol, choline, and essential oils were identified in the bark.

Fresh and dried leaves are no less rich, in which provitamin A, glycol and hexene aldehydes are formed, traces of alkaloids, resins and tannins are found.

Healing properties of elderberry

In folk medicine, both fresh and dry raw materials are used, which do not lose their basic properties.

The beneficial effects are revealed as follows:

• prevention of the development of peptic ulcer;
• treatment of liver damage and hepatitis;
• therapy of nervous system disorders, neuralgic, neurotic processes;
• prophylactic against the formation of malignant tumors;
• diaphoretic, antipyretic effect;
• antibacterial, anti-inflammatory activity;
• an adjuvant for the treatment of a full range of colds;
• mitigation of the course of diseases such as rheumatism, arthritis, gout;
• astringent, diuretic, sedative effect;
• cosmetological effect - elimination of acne and other rashes, toning of the skin;
• stabilization of metabolic processes. Regular use of decoctions and infusions leads to improved blood composition and overall well-being;
• improvement of bile excretion;
• laxative effect, which is especially important for those patients who suffer from chronic constipation.

The beneficial effects of the plant on the human body and all its beneficial properties are recognized even by official medicine.

Parts of the bush are included in pharmaceutical medicinal preparations; extracts and extracts of the plant have found successful use in the pharmaceutical industry.

Ways to use black elderberry

Black elderberry berries are often used in winemaking and cooking.

The squeezed juice becomes the basis for syrups and mousses, jams and jams, ports and wines.

The flowers are added to herbal drinks, teas and baked goods. The healthiest juice can be obtained only from ripe berries; other raw materials are ineffective.

To prepare a medicinal infusion, about 30 grams of dried berries or flowers are poured with boiling water (250 ml), infused for no more than half an hour and used for its intended purpose. This remedy is effective for colds, bronchitis, toothache, and headaches. A similar infusion can be used for.

It is very useful to use dry heat based on elder flowers, placed in linen bags, which are applied to the affected areas of the body for rheumatism and gout.

The healing properties of such compresses will ease the course of the disease and relieve acute symptoms.

What preparations can be made from elderberry?

It is customary to prepare jam and jelly from freshly picked ripe berries.

The sweet base of such preparations is never sugar; it is much healthier and more effective to use molasses or honey.

In addition, jelly can be prepared from the juice of the plant, which is also added to homemade fruit wines.

Jams, jams and elderberry preserves should be eaten by those who suffer from chronic constipation.

A tasty and healthy product will normalize the functioning of the digestive tract.

Both preparations are prepared in the standard way, by boiling and rolling into jars.

The finished dish is stored in the refrigerator until the next elderberry harvest.

Black elderberry honey according to an old recipe

Place fresh black elderberry flowers tightly in a three-liter jar and pour honey in equal proportions.

The product is infused for two times and used a teaspoon at a time to prevent colds.

Elderberry preparations

Medicines against colds and to improve immunity are prepared on the basis of black elderberry berries.

I can recommend you this one company, which offers medicines based on black elderberry extract for children and adults in the form of syrups and capsules.

Video about the beneficial properties of elderberries

Be sure to watch this video and you will learn even more about the beneficial properties of elderberry.

Contraindications and precautions

Red elderberry fruits are considered extremely dangerous - they should not be eaten by either animals or people. Even just touching the berries is a reason to immediately wash your hands.

If contact with the mucous membrane occurs, you should quickly consult a doctor.

Any products and dishes based on black elderberry should not be used for treatment of colitis, diabetes, pregnancy and lactation.

A woman should not undergo experiments, as this can be dangerous both for herself and for the fetus.

Nursing mothers are generally contraindicated from taking any biologically active agents, except those that may be prescribed by the attending physician.

Elderberry is strictly contraindicated for people who suffer from Crohn's disease.

If a person is predisposed to developing an allergic response and has been diagnosed with chronic diseases of the digestive tract, caution should be exercised.

IMPORTANT!!!

It is necessary to understand that distinguishing the two types of elderberry is not so easy.

To avoid all risks, any means are recommended to be used for preventive and therapeutic purposes for persons over 12 years of age.

Having understood the benefits of black elderberry, you can use it as a valuable component of your home herbal first aid kit.

Products prepared on its basis should be taken taking into account contraindications and after consulting a doctor.