Elderflower (sambucus nigra)

Alternative Names: Flannel leaf, beggar's blanket, velvet plant, felt-wort, tinder plant, candlewick plant, witch's candle, Aaron's rod, lady's foxglove, donkey's ears, hag's taper, torches, and Quaker rouge Description: Elderflower is used for swollen sinuses (sinusitis), colds, influenza (flu), swine flu, bronchitis, diabetes, and constipation. It is also used to increase urine production (as a diuretic), to increase sweating (as a diaphoretic), and to stop bleeding. Elderflower is also used as a gargle and mouthwash for coughs, colds, hoarseness (laryngitis), flu, and shortness of breath. It is used on the skin for joint pain (rheumatism), and pain and swelling. Precautions: Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking elder ower if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Diabetes: There is a concern that elderflower might lower blood sugar levels. If taken with diabetes medications, it might make bl