My dad’s property has Mexican elderberries going on it (Sambucus mexicana or nigra or canadensis – the name seems unsettled). They are native to California and actually I find them beautiful.

Elderberries decrease length of flu infections by 65%

This is an old European herbal. If taken at the first sign of flu, it decreases the length of the infection by two thirds. Scientific research shows that it’s a real effect, as far as I know it’s the only verified anti-flu effect other than echinacea.

It’s a messy tincture to make. My tincture is made with vodka, honey (local California), sugar and typical anti-symptom spices: clove, nutmeg, star anise, cinnamon, ginger.

And ecological aside: in October, when the fruit is fully ripe the leaves drop, I think this is to allow birds to eat and distribute the seeds. The trees leaf out again by December with the winter rains.

NOTE: don’t use elderberries or their leaves, stems or roots raw. Elderberries are poisonous when green and leaves and roots have been known to kill cattle, and sicken people when used raw.