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Description
Many types of elder are deciduous, woody plants that can be shrubs, small trees, or large trees, reaching heights of 1 to 15 meters. The Black Elderberry naturally occurs throughout much of Europe. Besides Europe, it is also found in North Africa and Western and Central Asia, where it grows wild and cultivated. From May to July, it bears yellowish-white flowers with a distinctive fresh, fruity-sweet fragrance. The fruits ripen from August to September, changing color from green to red to a glossy black.
Elderberry tea is an infusion made from flowers and drupes, often mistakenly referred to as berries. Besides its use in tea (or tea blends), elder is a popular ingredient due to its fresh, sweet-tart flavor in baked goods, gummy candies, jellies, jams, or lozenges.
History
Elder has been around for thousands of years. Historical records show that ancient Romans and Greeks used elderberries and its flowers for medicinal purposes and as food. Elder also has a long-standing tradition in the folk medicine of European, Asian, and North American cultures.
Numerous myths and superstitions surrounding elders attest to its historical significance. In Norse mythology, elder was considered a sacred plant—various deities were believed to have favorable connections to the elder tree. It was said that the matron of home and hearth chose the elder as her dwelling, and the goddess of marriage, life, and motherhood favored it as her chosen plant. The belief that good spirits lived in elder bushes was widespread, leading people to plant them near their homes.
Interesting Facts
- Raw, ripe elderberries should not be consumed as they contain small quantities of the toxin sambunigrin, which can cause nausea. Heating them to at least 80°C before consumption is recommended to make them safe.
- The Elder Wand featured in the novel "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" is crafted from elder wood.
- Elderberries are known as a "superfood."
