Elderberry (American)
Scientific Name: Sambucus canadensis
Botanical Family: Adoxaceae
Plant Type: Shrub
Geographical Origin: North America
Species/Variety: Sambucus canadensis
Description
Multi-stemmed shrub with white flower clusters and dark berries.
Therapeutic Properties
Diaphoretic (flowers); Immune support (berries)
Temperament
Cool
How to Use
Tea (flowers); Syrup/decoction (berries)
Dosage
Tea: 1–2 tsp dried flowers; Syrup as directed
Precautions
Unripe/raw berries, leaves, and bark may be toxic—cook berries; drug interactions possible.
Replacement / Alternatives
Linden (diaphoretic); Rose hip (vitamin C)
References
VASCAN