The black elderberry is a tall bush or a small tree. The bush differs from others in its bark, which has a grayish brown color. The plant is planted with many small yellow lentils. Long and opposite elderberries have a complex structure. Each leaf consists of 5-7 leaves, in which a pointed ovoid is formed.
Elder flowers of white fluffy and creamy are collected in large inflorescences. The fruits of the plant are black and purple drupa. Flowering begins in May and lasts until July. The fruits ripen in early autumn.
Elderflower inflorescences contain many useful substances, namely organic acids, semi-solid essential oil, choline, carotene, tannins and paraffin-like substances, sambunigrin glycoside and sugars.
Elderberries are rich in ascorbic acid, resins, glucose, free acids, tyrosine and coloring matter.
Fresh elderberry leaves are also very valuable. They contain aldehydes, tannins, alkaloids, essential oils and vitamins C and B. The leaves of this plant have a laxative diuretic effect. Young leaves have a restorative property. Steamed elderberry leaves are used for inflammation, diaper dermatitis, furunculosis and burns.
In addition, elder bark also has useful properties. A decoction prepared on its basis helps with kidney disease and skin diseases. The same decoction is used in the form of lotions and for bathing with arthritis and rheumatism.
