Common names | Elderflower, European elder

Scientific name | Sambucus nigra

Used part | Flower

Known active compounds | rutin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, quercetin, kaempferol

Potential benefits in cosmetics | anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin brightening

Product name | Elderflower-APD, Elderflower-ANB

Plant Story

Sambucus nigra, commonly known as elderflower or European elder, is a flowering plant native to Europe. Elderflowers are small, star-shaped, and typically cream-colored or pale yellow. They are known for pleasant and sweet fragrance and bloom in late spring to early summer. Elderflowers are edible and traditionally used to add flavor and fragrance to various dishes and beverages. Medicinally, elderflowers have been used in traditional herbal medicine for various purposes. They were used to support the immune system as they were believed to have anti-inflammatory and immune boosting properties. The flower tea or infusions were used for soothing respiratory discomfort and easing coughs and congestions. They were made into ointments and salves and topically applied to the skin for skin soothing effects.

Elderflowers are rich in flavonoids including quercetin, rutin, kaempferol, and astragalin. They also contain tannins and phenolic acids including chlorogenic acid and protocateuchic acid. Many research articles reported the anti-oxidant activities of elderflowers and their active constituents. They are also reported to have anti-inflammatory activities by inhibiting nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 cells and dendritic cells. The extracts from elderflowers were also reported to have tyrosinase inhibition activities.