Delicate, fragrant white flower clusters with a distinctive musky-floral aroma. Brewed into tea or cordial. Contains quercetin, rutin, chlorogenic acid, kaempferol, and sambunigrin. Anti-viral activity against influenza A and B, rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus has been documented. Anti-inflammatory activity through flavonoid inhibition of NF-kB. Traditional use for fever, respiratory infections, and sinus congestion.
Dried elderflowers available at health food stores and online. Fresh elderflowers from elder trees in late spring (May-June). Growing availability of elderflower cordial at grocery stores.
Elderflower and elderberry share quercetin and chlorogenic acid as antiviral mechanisms. Quercetin has documented activity as an ionophore (facilitating zinc entry into cells — zinc inhibits viral RNA polymerase) and as a direct inhibitor of viral entry and replication for influenza, SARS-CoV, and other respiratory viruses. Elderflower tea promotes diaphoresis (sweating) — the traditional mechanism for 'breaking a fever' that activates cutaneous cooling while potentially speeding viral clearance through elevated body temperature. The anti-allergic activity (quercetin + rutin inhibit histamine release from mast cells) makes elderflower relevant for hay fever and seasonal allergy management. A 2021 randomized trial found elderflower extract significantly reduced allergy symptoms compared to placebo.
Elderflower tea: steep 2-3 large flower heads (or 2 tsp dried) in hot water 10-15 min. Add honey + lemon. Elderflower cordial: steep flowers in hot sugar syrup with lemon and citric acid — cool, strain, bottle (non-alcoholic). In baked goods (elderflower flavor pairs with lemon and berry). Elderflower fritters: dip whole clusters in light batter and fry — a traditional wild food delicacy.
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