Numerous species of elder or elderberry, Sambucus nigra, grow in Europe and North America. Only those with blue/black berries are considered therapeutic. The flowers and berries are both used. Elderberries have long been used as food, particularly in the dried form. Elderberry wine, syrup, pie and lemonade are some of the popular ways to prepare this plant as food. Historically, the leaves were used by European herbalists for pain relief and to promote the healing of injuries when applied as a poultice.
The dried flowers and ripe berries are generally regarded as safe