What are the Benefits of Elderflower?

I was first introduced to the health benefits of the natural products made from the fruit and flowers of the Elder tree – Sambucas Nigra-when my children were small. We were enduring a winter of plague. Well, maybe not plague but certainly what seemed like a never-ending circle of illness with coughs, colds, tummy bugs and viral rashes which did the rounds of the entire family then just as we started to feel the worst had passed, another bug took hold.

 Those of you who have worked or had children in school will be nodding in understanding now as there’s barely a Christmas play across the land that hasn’t been disrupted by illness. Once I famously had to step in to play Mary as almost the entire cast (age range 4-11) had come down with the lurgy.

 Then a friend told me about elder products, elderflower and elderberry which are said to have incredible natural health benefits. So, what can you use elderflower for? Well it’s thought to be beneficial for people suffering with swollen sinuses (sinusitis), colds, influenza (flu), swine flu, fever, bronchitis, constipation and more and has legendary anti-inflammatory effects.

 

What is Elderflower?

 

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Elderflower is the flower produced by the Elder, a shrub/small tree, before it produces dark purple tasty elderberries. In the UK Elder flowers in late May, early June and is best harvested on a warm, dry, sunny day. Most experts advise avoid harvesting from roadside plants as the flowers take on the taste of the fumes.

 

You might wonder, is it legal to take elderflowers from wild plants? The answer is yes so you can enjoy a warm sunny walk and collect elderflowers at the same time to make cordials or even wine. Always leave enough for local wildlife (bees and butterflies love elderflower!) and never dig up or relocate a wild plant. Also, be sure you have the right to be on the land – wild elders might bloom around farm fields, but you may be trespassing if you don’t seek permission to forage first.

 

How do I take Elderflower?

 Elderflower is used to make cordial, champagne style drinks, wine, teas, liqueur and infusions. Flower buds can be pickled and the flowers which hang in frothy yellow-white sprays can be used in salads, cakes, tarts and crumbles. It’s so easy to eat or drink these versatile flowers and whether you use elderflower products as a treatment or as a preventative remedy most agree it’s a very pleasant way to stay healthy.

What are the Health Benefits of Elderflower?

Elderflower is a good option all year round with their anti-septic and anti-inflammatory properties being the most widely known benefits. Herbalists often advise taking elderflower daily in allergy season as elderflower can help with respiratory issues by reducing inflammation in the upper respiratory tract. Elderflower really comes into its own in autumn and winter when a variety of respiratory illnesses are most likely to strike. Colds, flu, coughs all can benefit from ingesting elderflower and there is some who believe it can help ease COVID-19 symptoms too.

There is evidence to suggest elderflower is great for heart health and may even help lower “bad cholesterol”. It has been proven to help lower blood glucose too and mild cases of hypertension or pre-hypertension. Elderflower is thought to have calming properties and can help with anxiety and depression.

When sipped in the form of hot caffeine free tea elderflower’s anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties excel at reducing irritation and inflammation in the gut, making it an excellent treatment for heartburn, acid reflux, peptic ulcers, gastritis, gastric infections, bloating, gas, colic and wind. Many find elderflower eases arthritis symptoms – again that’s those anti inflammatory properties at work.

Find out more about other amazing benefits of elderflower in out blog; The benefits of elderflower for your skin and hydration. 

What Does Elderflower Taste Like?

Elderflower has a very present taste, enjoyed my most people with its profile being described as a uniquely fresh, fruity, green and slightly floral flavour with subtle pear, lychee and tropical nuances. This makes it ideal for consumption in food and drinks and a talented tea blender can create teas and infusions with amazing flavours without losing the health benefits.

Can Everyone Benefit from Elderflower?

Because of the plant’s ability to drop blood sugar levels those on diabetic medications are urged to use caution when taking elderflower, especially if they are prone to hypos. For the same reason surgeons would prefer you don’t use elderflower products for two weeks before surgery.

Having said that this advice mostly applies to those taking larger quantities, possibly prescribed by herbalists, on a regular basis. The odd cup of tea or glass of cordial is unlikely to cause issues.

Elderflower's Presence in Mother Cuppa's Tea Blends

The rich legacy of elderflower's health benefits finds a harmonious union with Mother Cuppa Tea's dedication to women's well-being. Amidst a world brimming with natural remedies, the inclusion of elderflower in Mother Cuppa's tea blends signifies a commitment to holistic health. As the delicate blooms of the Elder tree grace the landscape, they also grace the tea cups of women seeking wellness in every sip.

Nature's bounty finds a soothing retreat in Mother Cuppa Tea's Hydrate Tea Blend, where the gentle touch of elderberry intertwines with the brand's commitment to women's well-being. As the seasons shift and women seek solace in the embrace of hydration, elderberry emerges as a nurturing force, offering both flavour and nourishment.

Elderberry's presence elevates the Hydrate Tea Blend beyond a simple beverage. It transforms each sip into an act of self-care, a moment to indulge in both flavor and wellness. As the tea steeps, elderberry's essence unfurls, infusing the liquid with its vibrant hues and beneficial properties, turning hydration into a delightful ritual.

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