Picking elderflowers lets you connect with nature and enjoy its unique health benefits. These lovely flowers have antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory substances that promote health in the immune and respiratory systems. You can make tasty dishes like Elderflower Pancakes for the best experience with these summery blossoms. Using them in recipes like pancakes lets you enjoy benefits of elderflower in a yummy, creative way.
Benefits of elderflower: Image source Pixabay
Table of Contents
What are Elderflowers?
Elder tree blossoms, scientifically called Sambucus nigra, are the Elder tree’s creamy white blooms. These blooms belong to Europe, but they have reached various parts of the globe. They possess an irresistible sweet, flower scent.
Elderflower has a long history of use in herbal medicine, according to NCBI article, and is considered to have antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects. Bioactive compounds like flavonoids are likely responsible for these actions.
Traditionally used to treat colds, flu, sinus infections, and other respiratory ailments. May help relieve congestion and fever. Also used for pain relief. As with every medicine, traditional or syntetic it always comes with some side effect so better to take with precausion and advice with your medician.
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Elderflowers are small, cream colored flowers with a sweet smell. They grow in bunches on elderberry bushes, which have woody stems and compound leaves.
Elderflowers usually bloom in late spring and early summer, from May to June. You can find them in Europe, North America, and Asia. When you pick elderflowers, make sure you identify them right so you get the right plant. Collect them responsibly within their season.
So go out in nature when elderflowers are blooming, identify these pretty flowers carefully, and pick them responsibly. With their delicate smell and unique taste, elderflowers can make your food much better and give you a taste of nature.
Elderflower health benefits
Among many other benefits of elderflower, if taken in moderate amount, are: antioxidants, imune boosting compounds, anti inflammatory compounds, supports respiratory health, diuretic and detoxifying properties. For side effects and potential health risks read this article: Elderflower – Uses, Side Effects, and More
Rich in Antioxidants
Elderflower is loaded with antioxidants like flavonoids and phenols which fight the free radicals that damage your cells. Antioxidants boost your health and help keep your immune system strong.
Immune-Boosting
Elderflower is great for your immune system. It’s chock full of compounds that may strengthen your immunity so you can avoid common colds and bugs.
Anti-inflammatory
Elderflower has traditionally been used to ease inflammation. Its natural compounds could help reduce inflammation in your body and maybe even relieve pain from arthritis or respiratory problems.
Supports Respiratory Health
Elderflower is wonderful for respiratory health and congestion. It may help clear up symptoms from colds, flu and allergies by breaking up mucus, calming irritated airways and relieving stuffiness.
Diuretic and Detoxifying
Elderflower acts as a natural diuretic so it could help flush excess fluid and toxins from your body. This may support kidney function and your body’s detox process.
How to Use Elderflowers
Incorporating elderberry flowers into your daily routine is a delightful and easy process to follow. Here are just couple of examples:
Elderflower Tea
Brew a fragrant cup of elderflower tea, an excellent way to relax and boost your immune system. Elderflower tea is a natural remedy that can help with colds, flu and other minor conditions. However, this is not a substitute for medical advice and you should always consult your doctor before using any herbal products.
How do I make my own elderflower tea?
You can put the fresh flower heads on a clean cloth and place them in a shady, dry and airy spot. Alternatively, you can hang them in bunches from a string or rack. This method can take from a few days to a week, depending on humidity and temperature.
Using:
You can use about 2 teaspoons of dried flowers per cup of water. Bring the water to the boil, then place the dried flowers in a teapot and pour over the hot water. Cover the teapot and leave to infuse for 10 minutes, then strain and enjoy2.
Elderflower Syrup
Elderflower syrup can be added to beverages, desserts, or used as a drizzle over pancakes or waffles.
How do I make my own elderflower cordial?
Follow this recipe for Elderflower syrup(cordial)
Elderberry Tincture
Tinctures offer a concentrated form of elderberries, for on-the-go immune support.
How do I make my own elderflower tincture?
The basic steps are:
- Fill the jar with elderflowers, leaving a little space at the top.
- Pour the alcohol, best to use votka, over the elderflowers, making sure they are completely submerged. Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through the cheesecloth or sieve, squeezing out as much as possible. Pour the tincture into the amber bottle using the funnel and label it with your name and date.
You can find more detailed instructions and videos on how to make elderberry flower tincture online, such as this or this.
Precautions and Side Effects
While elderflowers are generally safe, it’s crucial to be aware of potential precautions and side effects.
Pregnancy and Lactation, allergies
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a known allergy to plants in the Adoxaceae family, you should consult a healthcare professional before using any elderberry products.
Where to Find Elderflower Products
Elderflower products are readily available, both in physical stores and online. I’ve linked to some online sources below.
Foraging for Elderflower
How to forage Elderflower
ELDERFLOWER
Elderflower in the Kitchen
Elderflowers are amazing ingredients for cooking. And the possibilities are endless. You can use them to make syrups, teas, and cordials. They can be added to lemonades, cocktails, and even wine for a fancy touch. Elderflower syrup can turn any drink, dessert, yogurt, or ice cream into something magical. It’s the perfect match for berries, stone fruits, or a bit of citrus.
Elderflower & Baked Goods
These flowers can be dipped in batter and fried to make crispy fritters or tempura. You can also use them to create sweet treats like jams, jellies, and desserts. They’re also great for adding to baked goods.
For example, check this amazing Elderflower Pancake recipe.
Syrups and drinks
Syrup is the most common way to preserve them, acting like a time capsule for their flavour, thanks to sugar’s magical preserving powers.
Elderflower syrups aren’t only sweeteners; they’re also the core of rejuvenating drinks such as spritzers, sodas, teas and punches. Syrup enables you to seize that subtle taste and relish it all year round.
Elderflower Syrup Ice Cream
Ingredients:
– 2 deciliters (3/4 cup) elderflower syrup
– 5 grams (1 teaspoon) gelatin soaked in a few tablespoons water
– 4 deciliters (1 2/3 cups) heavy whipping cream
Instructions:
- Heat the elderflower syrup just until steaming and remove from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until dissolved. Allow to cool to room temperature.
- Whip the heavy cream into soft peaks without any sugar.
- Gently fold the elderflower syrup mixture into the whipped cream.
- Freeze using your preferred method – either in an ice cream maker or flat in a freezer container.
- The result will be a very smooth, creamy, fragrant and delicious elderflower ice cream!
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