Elderflower – Traditional uses in folk medicine

Traditional uses in folk medicine:

Elderflowers

• Elderflower juice (“socată”) is a very popular traditional fermented beverage made in spring.
• Elderflower tea is used for colds, fever, and as a diaphoretic, induce sweating and reduce fever.
• Elderberry syrup is widely used to support immunity during winter.
• Elder flowers are sometimes battered and fried as a seasonal delicacy.
• Flower compresses applied to skin inflammations

Elderberries can be used for a variety of purposes besides making wine.

• They are commonly used to prepare syrups and juices, which are often consumed for their immune-supporting properties.
•  Elderberries can also be made into jams, jellies, and marmalades, thanks to their rich flavor and natural color.
• In traditional medicine, they are used in teas and extracts to help relieve cold and flu symptoms.
  They are also used to make cordials and liqueurs, as well as natural food colorings.
• It is important to note that elderberries should be cooked before consumption, as raw berries can be toxic!!!

Unusual,  traditional folk uses:

• Elder flowers are sometimes battered and fried as a seasonal delicacy.
• In Romanian folklore, elder trees were considered protective plants but also somewhat mystical; cutting it down was believed to bring bad luck