Elderberry is a deciduous shrub that is widely used in food, medicine, and pharmaceuticals. This shrub is quite widespread in the Czech Republic. It grows mainly in nutrient-rich, moist areas. For this reason, it is especially common in borders, roadsides, and gardens. This shrub grows up to 10 meters high and flowers from June to July. The flowers are yellowish-white and beautifully fragrant; the berries, which ripen around August, are small, black and round. The elderberry has a long history. Long ago, our ancestors used this shrub to heal everything. This is reflected in the old saying, “Kneel before the chamomile, bow down before the elderberry.”
Elderberry (fruit) is used primarily in the food industry. The juice is used as a food coloring agent. They also play an important role in the production of liqueurs. Elderberries are also used to make syrup, tea, marmalade, and wine. Housewives are also familiar with a delicacy called gooseberry. This is made by frying the flowers as one would fry cauliflower. The flowers can also be used to make a delicious elderflower syrup. In addition, the flowers make an excellent cold tea. It stimulates perspiration, has diuretic properties, and is effective against constipation. Care must be taken when picking them, however, and elderberry should not be confused with elder chebdie. The latter is poisonous.
It is mainly the flowers that are used medicinally. The flowers must be collected during the dry season, preferably before they are in full bloom. They must be dried as soon as possible and stored in the shade to prevent them from turning brown.
Elderflower Syrup
Elderflower syrup is also wonderful and healthy. Pick elderflowers, pour about 2 liters of water, add the slices of two lemons, and let them soak overnight. The next day, strain through a clean cloth and add about 2 kg of sugar. The sugar can be dissolved by stirring patiently while cold or by heating over low heat. Now it is ready.