| Elder flowers are a
mild astringent and are used in skin washes to refine the complexion and help
relieve eczema, acne and psoriasis. Elder has a long history of use dating back
to the 5th century BC. Hippocrates wrote about elder. Egyptians discovered
that applying elder flowers improved the complexion and healed burns. Flower
water makes a soothing gargle and when strained makes an excellent eye
wash.
The 17th century herbalist, John Evelyn called
this herb "a remedy against all infirmities what-so-ever".
The leaves and flowers are a common ingredient in ointments and poultices for
burns and scalds, swelling, cuts and scrapes. Infusions and preparations with
the blossoms combined with other herbs have also been used to boost the immune
system and quicken recovery from the common cold and flu.
The effects of elder flowers are: alterative, diaphoretic,
anti-inflammatory and anti-catarrhal
Elder flowers contain:
o Triterpenes, including ursolic acid
o Fixed oil containing linoleic, linolenic and palmitic acids
o Flavonoids, including rutin, quercitin , kampherol
o Pectin
o Sugars
Elder Flowers also known as:
Elderberry,
Sambucus canadensis, Sambucus
|
Advertisements
Natural Health
Products
click here to read more
|