When I was a little girl my dad used to make elderberry wine in October and it was my job along with my sisters to go and pick the elderberries. What great fun was had, although at times we came back quite stained when the juicy berries burst in our hands, sometimes by accident and sometimes just for fun!

So we have already mentioned we can use these juicy berries to make wine but we can also use them to make elderberry jam, syrup,pies,jelly,sweets and sauces. The entire flower cluster can also be dipped in batter and fried, while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. The flowers have often been used to add an aromatic flavor and lightness to pancakes or fritters.

History:

Elderberries are native to North America and Northern Europe.

In the middle ages, elderberry was considered a Holy Tree capable of restoring good health, keeping good health, and as an aid to longevity.

The Russians believe that elder trees ward off evil spirits and it was considered good luck to plant a tree near your home.

Sicilians think that sticks of elder wood can kill serpents and drive away thieves.

Health Benefits:

Elderberry is an excellent source of vitamins A, B and C. Its constituents may also strengthen the body's immune system. Elderberries contain bioflavonoids and anthocyanins, which positively influence cell function.

The Elder tree berry has been used for centuries as a natural intestinal cleanser. Both the flower and the berry possess powerful antioxidant properties that help protect your health by attacking harmful free radicals that damage cells. Elderberries also nourish the circulatory system. The antibiotic, antiviral and antibacterial properties found in Elderberry also work to stimulate the skin, kidneys and lymphatic system.

Elderberries are rich in mineral nutrients - an aid in relieving inflamed and blocked respiratory passages