Herb of
the Month
Elder
Sambucus
nigra
Earlier in the year we looked at elderflowers; now the flowers that
were left have developed into the black droops of elderberries. A favourite
amongst winemakers they also have considerable medicinal qualities and
contain useful amounts of vit C and iron. They help improve the appetite
and are an effective diuretic making them useful not only for urinary
complaints but also rheumatic and joint pains. Elderberry is stated
to 'promote all fluid excretions and natural evacuations'! The dried
berries have also been used to treat colic and diarrhoea. Its most famous
use though is in the treatment and prevention of coughs, colds and 'flu.
Elderberry wine taken hot at night is reputed to help these conditions
in much the same way as elderflower and will help bring out a fever.
for centuries people have made Elderberry Rob which is a thick syrup,
using it to protect against coughs and colds. To make this you need
5lb fresh, ripe, crushed elderberries. Simmer along with 1lb sugar.
Allow the juice to evaporate until it is the thickness of honey. Strain
and bottle. Take 1-2 tbs in a glass of hot water at night. Another syrup
can be made using ripe berries, stripped from the stalks (use a fork!)
and stewed gently in a little water. Strain and for every gallon of
juice add ½ oz fresh ginger and 18 cloves. Boil together for
1 hr, strain again and bottle. This, again is good for colds and 'flu.
Take 1 wineglass full in hot water. Sweeten with honey if necessary.
