Elder Berries, Whole | Organic

Hand-harvested from the elder shrub, our organic elder berries are a time-honored staple in traditional Western herbalism and culinary arts. Known for their deep purple hue and tart flavor, these small, dried berries are perfect for creating immune-supporting recipes and delicious, healthful beverages.

Native to Europe, North America, and Southwest Asia, elderberries have been cherished for centuries for their healthful benefits and versatile uses. Traditionally, they were a key ingredient in preserves, wines, winter cordials, syrups, and even ketchup. The dried berries are less bitter than their fresh counterparts and are often infused in teas or cooked into sweet and savory dishes.

Although elderberries were once categorized in the Caprifoliaceae family, they are now part of the Viburnaceae family. Their connection to folklore and their role in traditional European medicine make them a fascinating botanical with a rich history.

How to Use Elder Berries

DIY Product Uses & Recipes
Teas & Infusions: Simmer elderberries with water to create a flavorful, immune-supporting tea. Combine with cinnamon and ginger for added warmth and nourishment.

Elderberry Syrup: Combine elderberries with honey, ginger, and cinnamon for a homemade immune-boosting syrup. Perfect for taking by the spoonful during colder months or drizzling over pancakes.

Natural Dye: Elderberries have long been used to dye fabrics and yarn a deep purple hue. Simmer the berries in water and add a mordant like alum or vinegar to lock in the color. This is ideal for creating altar cloths, ritual robes, or other magical textiles.

Herbal Bath Soaks: Infuse your bath with dried elderberries, Epsom salt, chamomile, and dried orange peel for a soothing, immune-supporting soak. Channel elderberries' protective and restorative properties to create a moment of self-care.

Homemade Ink: Combine elderberry juice with gum arabic to create a natural, purple ink. Use for journaling, ritual writing, or spellcraft to invoke protection and intuition.

Herbal Vinegar: Steep elderberries in raw apple cider vinegar to create a deep-hued, antioxidant-rich herbal vinegar. Perfect for making salad dressings, marinades, or natural cleaning solutions.

Infuse Honey, Kombucha or vinegar with dried elderberries to craft a sweet, antioxidant-rich consumable. Use it as a drizzle, in teas, or as a naturally delicious beverage.

Elderberries are tart, earthy, and slightly sweet, lending themselves well to both sweet and savory preparations. Their deep purple pigment also adds a beautiful visual element to your creations.

Elderberries have been traditionally used to support immune health and fortify the body’s natural defenses.* They are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them a beloved herbal ally during the colder months.

Precautions

Raw elderberries contain sambunigrin, which may cause vomiting or diarrhea if consumed. Always cook elderberries before use. Consult with a healthcare practitioner before using elderberry products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.

Sold by the ounce.

✩ All online orders are packed in sanitized & upcycled containers. This allows us to keep costs down while still providing you with quality products! If you prefer a new container, please add one to your order and email us letting us know to fill your new bottle with the proper product.

KHS recommends that you consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, particularly if you take other medications, or if you are nursing, pregnant, or expecting to become pregnant.

This information is for education purposes, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration