Relationships May 22, 2018
It's not just for cake!
Though a relatively unknown plant, the popularity of the elderflower is skyrocketing due to its use in the royal wedding cake for Megan Markle and Prince Harry. But there is so much more behind this plant than its use as a baking ingredient.
Elderflower comes from the elder tree, which is native to the U.K. and parts of Europe.
The elder tree grows rapidly, with leaves present from March to November and flowers from June to July. The berries ripen from August to September, all thanks to the pollination from small insects. The leaves, bark, wood, flowers and berries can all be used for a variety of purposes.
Here are some fast facts about this versatile plant.
A National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) study concluded that there was “a significant effect of elderberry on cold duration and cold associated symptoms.” That means the participants who used elderberry, the plant that the elderflower blossoms into, showed an increased recovery time from common cold symptoms.
Although the study was the first of its kind, it suggests that there may be a strong connection between the use of the elderberry and easing the common cold.
According to Belvoir Fruit Farms, a company who has been using the elderberry to make cordial since 1984, the plant’s use dates back to the time of Hippocrates.
More modern creations use elderberry to make everything from lemon cake to gin and tonic.
Hippocrates actually used every part of the plant to “encourage vomiting and purging” in his patients.
The American Botanical Council warns that excess consumption of elderberries can, in fact, lead to diarrhea, nausea and vomiting in humans.
Who needs alcohol when you have good ol’ elderberry?
Elderflower is used to make cordial, a type of sweet liqueur. It’s made with lots of sugar and citric acid and then mixed with fruits such as oranges and lemons to add flavor.
Enjoy elderflower cordial with dessert or as a dessert replacement. The best part is it’s super easy to make.
Elderflower tea is high in antioxidants such as vitamin C and quercetin, which help to protect the body against diseases. And according to Livestrong, the tea also has cholesterol benefits.
A word of caution, thought—excess elderflower tea consumption has not been studied, and it has been known to have a diuretic effect.
As you can see, there’s a deeper history behind the elderflower than meets the eye. It has been used for centuries and has endless uses. Just be careful not to overeat them, unless you want to end up like this girl:
