Elderberry

The American elder (canadensis) , also known as Elderberry, is small tree that grows to 12 feet and is native to North America. The European elder (nigra) grows to 30 feet, is found throughout Europe, Asia, North Africa, and has been naturalized in the United States. The elderberry tree has been called "the medicine chest of the common people.
The flowers, leaves, berries, bark and roots of elderberry have all been used in traditional folk medicine for centuries. The fruits have been used to make elderberry wine, and when cooked, can be used in pies and jams. The berries contain more vitamin C than any other herb except rosehips and black currant.
Elderberry has a long history dating beyond the stone ages. Egyptians discovered that applying its flowers improved the complexion and healed burns. Many early Indian tribes used elderberry, and its variants, in teas and other beverages. In the 17th century the British often drank home made wine and cordials that was thought to prolong life and cure the common cold.
Elderberry contains a considerable amount of vitamins A, B and C, as well as flavonoids, sugar, tannins, carotenoids and amino acids. Warm elderberry wine is a remedy for sore throat, influenza and induces perspiration to reverse the effects of a chill. Elderberry juice is an old fashioned cure for colds, and is also said to relieve asthma and bronchitis.
Infusions of Elderberry are beneficial for nerve disorders, back pain, and have been used to reduce inflammation of the urinary tract and bladder. Raw Elderberry has laxative and diuretic properties, however the seeds are toxic and may induce vomiting and nausea. Elderberries are edible when cooked.
Elderberry works directly against cold and flu viruses by inhibiting the action of enzymes used by the virus to get into the cells. This reduces the reproduction rate of the virus and therefore allows time for the immune system to rally itself and fight off the virus.