May and June evoke memories of strawberries and elderflower for me. Strawberries bring back the delightful taste of childhood, while the elderflower’s enchanting aroma always reminds me of my youth in Poland. Back then, I didn’t realize how magical elderflower truly is. Considered sacred across Europe and North America, the elder tree is surrounded by legend, often seen as a refuge for benevolent fairies. It’s customary to ask the elder for permission before gathering its flowers or berries.
Anxiety and stress remedy
Elderflower remedies create delicious medicines. Infusions are soothing for colds, coughs, and hay fever symptoms, while stronger tinctures clear persistent congestion from the lungs and upper respiratory tract. A compress soaked in elderflower infusion can treat eye inflammation and infections. Few people know that elderflowers have adaptogenic, relaxant, and nervine properties, making them excellent for calming tension, anxiety, and depression. They induce sleep and are especially helpful for irritable children, encouraging rest and relaxation.
Elderflowers for gut health
Elderflowers also benefit the gut, protecting against irritation and inflammation. They are useful for heartburn, indigestion, diarrhoea, colic, and gas.
Immunity herb
Their most crucial role is in combating viral infections and colds. As diaphoretic, they bring blood to the surface and induce sweating, which helps reduce fevers. Now is the perfect time to gather and dry elderflowers in preparation for autumn and winter.
Fever reducing remedy recipe
The best infusion for the onset of an infection combines dried elderflowers, yarrow, and peppermint. Use 1 tablespoon of the mixture with boiling water, cover and infuse for about 10 minutes. Add some grated ginger and drink it hot. You can have a couple of cups a day until you start sweating, ensuring you’re wrapped up in blankets. This will help your body fight infections more effectively.
Dry some elderflower now for the cold seasons, and for now, make a tasty cordial. Planting an elder in a herb garden is considered beneficial to the medicinal plants growing there, as it is believed to serve as a protector or guardian of the garden.