Article content
Black elder (Sambucus nigra) is among the most valuable medicinal plants in our region. It has a long tradition in folk medicine and its flowers and fruits are considered a natural remedy for many ailments. Nevertheless, it is important to know that when consumed improperly the fruits can be mildly poisonous. In this article we will explain how to use black elder safely, what its health benefits are, and we will add a recipe for homemade elderberry syrup.
Where black elder grows and how to recognize it
Black elder grows throughout the Czech Republic, especially on forest edges, in thickets and along roads. The shrub can reach up to 10 meters in height, most commonly it reaches 3–6 meters. In spring it blooms with small white to creamy flowers with a sweet fragrance. The fruits appear at the end of summer and are dark purple to black in color.
Why the raw fruits are poisonous
Raw black elder fruits contain the substance sambunigrin, which can break down into hydrogen cyanide during digestion. This can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or headaches. Heat treatment (for example cooking) destroys these poisonous substances and the fruits then become safe to consume.
Tip: Never consume raw berries, leaves or bark of black elder. Always boil them thoroughly before consumption.
Health benefits of black elder
- Immune support: high content of vitamin C and antioxidants helps protect the body from infections and shortens the duration of colds.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: flavonoids help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Digestive support: the fiber from the fruits supports healthy bowel function and helps with constipation.
- Antiviral action: research shows effectiveness against certain viruses, especially influenza.
- Cell protection: antioxidants protect cells from free radicals and reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases.
- Healthy heart: may contribute to lowering cholesterol and improving blood circulation.
- Blood sugar regulation: beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Healthy skin: vitamins and antioxidants support regeneration and soothe irritation.
- Detoxification: has a mild diuretic effect.
Recipe for homemade elderberry syrup
Ingredients
- 1 kg ripe black elder berries (stalks and leaves removed)
- 1 liter of water
- 500 g to 1 kg granulated sugar (depending on desired sweetness)
- Juice of 1–2 lemons (or citric acid to taste)
Method
- Preparing the berries: Sort the berries, remove unripe and damaged ones. Rinse under running water.
- Cooking: Place the berries in a pot, pour in the liter of water and slowly bring to a boil. Simmer over low heat for 20–30 minutes, until the berries release their juice.
- Straining: Pour through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to separate the juice from the pulp and seeds.
- Preparing the syrup: Return the juice to the pot, add the sugar and heat until it dissolves. Add lemon juice to taste.
- Bottling: Pour the hot syrup into sterilized bottles, seal them and turn upside down.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dark place. After opening keep refrigerated.
Using the syrup
You can add elderberry syrup to hot water as a medicinal tea, to cold water as a refreshing drink, or use it to flavor desserts, pancakes and yogurts. For immune support, 1–2 teaspoons daily are recommended.
Conclusion
Black elder is a true natural wonder that deserves a place in every household. You just need to know how to handle it. Proper preparation eliminates its risks and allows you to make full use of its medicinal potential.
