Sambucus nigra,Black elder,Elderberry and its narration literature.

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Other Uses of Elderberry.

Elderberry Extract INCI Name Sambucus Nigra Berry Extract CAS 84603-58-7 EINECS ELINCS No 283-259-4 Drupe European elder American Elderberry Sambucus canadensis L Black elder Sweet Elderberry Sambucus cerulea var mexicana Sambucus orbiculata Sambucus mexicana Sambucus canadensis Sambucus simpsonii photo picture image Compost; Dye; Fungicide; Insecticide; Musical; Repellent; Straw.

 The leaves and inner bark of young shoots are used as an insect repellent, the dried flowering shoots are said to repel insects and rodents. A decoction of the leaves can be used as an insecticide. It is prepared by boiling 3 - 4 handfuls of leaves in a litre of water, then straining and allowing to cool before applying. Effective against many insects, it also treats various fungal infections such as leaf rot and powdery mildew.
 A black dye is obtained from the bark.

 When grown near a compost heap, the root activity of this plant encourages fermentation in the compost heap.

 The stems can be easily hollowed out to be used as drains in tapping the sap from trees such as the Sugar Maples (Acer spp). the stems can also be used as whistles and flutes.

 Modern uses: A valuable remedy in modern herbal medicine. The bark, flowers and berries are all used and are available from herbalists. The berries, rich in vitamin C, are used to make wine or juice; either taken hot is a traditional remedy for colds. Elderflowers mixed with Peppermint herb and made into an infusion - 1 oz (28 g) to 1 pt (568 ml) of water - is taken in doses Of 2 fl Oz (56 ml) for 'flu. Elderflower water, which can he made by adding eight drops of the essential oil to 1 Pt (568 ml) of distilled water, is used in eye and skin lotions. It keeps the complexion clear of freckles and other blemishes.

 The leaves are used to make a soothing ointment. They are combined in equal parts With red Poppy flowers and 6 oz (17o g) of this mixture is simmered in 15 fl Oz (426 ml) of olive oil. This is then strained and 5 Oz (142 g) of melted white paraffin wax is added. The ointment is then allowed to cool. It is suitable for bruises, sprains and chilblains.

 An infusion of the bark is laxative and diuretic. It is given in small doses over a period of time to purify the blood.

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citations1.Sambucus nigra,Black elder,Elderberry and its narration literature.

last edit date:10th,June.2009.