Elderflower

Elderflowers (also called European elder) come from a small tree, which is native to specific areas in Europe. The tree makes small white flowers that have a very strong fragrance and small berries that are dark and have a strong taste. You can dry the elderflowers and brew them as a herbal tea. Find below which are the most powerful benefits of elderflower tea.

Elderflower tea has a long history of use in German medicine. It has strong antioxidant properties and antiviral effect, which makes tea quite popular for fighting cold, flu and their symptoms.

Being rich in vitamin C and having antioxidant properties, makes it great for fighting premature aging.

Benefits of elderflower tea

1. Vitamin C

Elderflower tea contains vitamin C, which is important for the health of your skin, blood vessels, tendons, and ligaments. They also protect the skin from harmful free radicals.

2. Powerful Antioxidants

European elder contains quercetin, which is a flavonoid and it has powerful antioxidant properties. The detoxifying effects of the antioxidants found in elderflower tea can help to regenerate and repair cells by protecting your body from oxidative stress, which can lead to common chronic diseases.

3. Fights Flu

The high content of vitamin C and the antiviral properties make elderflower tea a great option for fighting cold and keeping your body hydrated.

4. Helps Reducing Cholesterol

The flavonoid quercetin was found to reduce cholesterol levels in test tube studies. More research is needed to determine whether drinking  European elder tea improves cholesterol levels.

5. Diuretic

Another elderflower herbal tea benefit is the diuretic effect and also it may increase the effect of diuretics. This tea can also help increase the urine production.

6. Gargle and mouthwash

Brewing a cup of elderflower tea can also make a great mouthwash due to its flavor and antiviral properties. Use this tea for gargling as it will help soothe coughs, colds, hoarseness (laryngitis).

7. Anti-inflammatory

Having anti-inflammatory properties, elderflower tea can be used topically on the skin for joint pain (rheumatism), pain and swelling (inflammation) To read more about the benefits of elderflower tea you can check this article.

How to prepare elderflower tea

Similarly to other herbal teas, elderflower tea is quite simple to prepare. You just need:
– One teaspoon of dried elderflowers
– Boiling water
Put the dried flowers in a tea strainer and pour the hot water on top of them in a mug. Cover to steep for 10 minutes and enjoy!