Elderberry (American)
Sambucus canadensis
About Elderberry (American)
Elderberry (American) (Sambucus canadensis) is a herb used in the Appalachian Folk Medicine tradition to help with Cold, Flu, Fever, and Immune Support, among 1 other condition it addresses. The berries and flowers are the parts traditionally used, taken internally.
Botanical background
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Source: Wikipedia, via iNaturalist
Parts used
Conditions addressed
Tea / Infusion
- Steep 1–2 tsp of dried Elderberry (American) in freshly boiled water for 5–10 minutes.
- Cover while steeping.
- Strain and drink.
Tincture
- Pack dried Elderberry (American) into a jar and cover with 40–60% alcohol.
- Seal and steep for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and store in a dark dropper bottle.
Powder / Capsule
- Grind dried Elderberry (American) into a fine powder.
- Fill size 00 capsules or stir into smoothies or honey.
Steam Inhalation
- Add 2–3 tbsp of Elderberry (American) to a bowl of just-boiled water.
- Drape a towel over your head and inhale steam for 5–10 minutes.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
Pregnancy
Likely SafeCooked/processed elderberry (syrups, lozenges) is widely used and generally considered safe in pregnancy; raw, unripe, or uncooked elderberry (including leaves, bark, stems) should always be avoided due to cyanide-precursor toxins.
Breastfeeding
Likely SafeCooked/processed elderberry preparations are considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Children
Likely SafeWidely used in syrup/lozenge form for children's immune support; only ever use fully cooked, commercially prepared products — raw berries, leaves, bark, and stems are toxic.
Contraindications
- Autoimmune conditions (lupus, MS, RA) — may overstimulate immune response
Warnings
⚠️ Allergic Reactions
Discontinue immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.
Drug & herb interactions
Immunosuppressants
Theoretical immune-stimulating effect — use caution if on immunosuppressive therapy.
Diabetes medications
May have a mild additive blood-sugar-lowering effect.
Where to find in nature
Native region
Europe, North America, western Asia
Climate
Temperate
Habitat
Hedgerows, woodland margins, and disturbed land. The Elder tree is one of the most commonly foraged plants in Europe and eastern North America.
🌿 To see Elderberry (American) growing, visit botanical gardens, university plant collections, or specialist herb nurseries near you. If foraging in the wild, always work with an expert identifier — never consume a plant you are not 100% certain of.
Where to buy
In store
- Health food stores (Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Holland & Barrett, GNC)
- Naturopathic clinics and integrative medicine practices
- Specialist herbal apothecaries and herbalist practices
- Farmers markets with herb vendors
Online
iHerb
Wide selection of standardised extracts, capsules, and powders with lab testing
Mountain Rose Herbs
Premium bulk dried herbs — certified organic, ethically sourced
Starwest Botanicals
Large selection of certified organic bulk herbs and powders
Herb Pharm
High-quality liquid extracts and tinctures, rigorous quality standards
Amazon
Convenient — verify brand certifications and check third-party testing
Etsy
Small-batch artisan herbalists, hand-harvested and wildcrafted herbs
Quality tips
When buying Elderberry (American), look for: certified organic labelling, clearly stated country of origin, third-party lab testing for heavy metals and pesticides, and a batch expiry date. Standardised extracts offer consistent dosing; bulk dried herbs are more economical for regular use. Avoid very cheap, unlabelled products — quality varies enormously.