The health benefits of elderberry

Elderberries are perfect for wild collection; they grow in abundance and can be harvested every year without harming the plant. Our wild elderberries come from southern Hungary, where there is still a thriving industry of wild herb collection. The collectors, who are predominantly of Roma origin, have formed a small cooperative made up of about 30 people. Every year they harvest the fresh berries from a patchwork of different sized areas of organically certified land. The fresh berries are immediately taken to our local partner for drying and export.

In addition to elderberries the collectors harvest a variety of other herbs, including elderflower and nettles, which we also use in our teas. By harvesting herbs, or herb parts that mature at different times of the year the collectors are able to spread their workload and generate a regular source of income.

Just remember, if you go elderberry or elderflower collecting, leave some for wildlife – they are an important source of food for many migrating birds, as well as small mammals such as dormice and voles.

What are elderberries used for?

Bursting with brightly coloured pigments that act as natural antioxidants, elderberries are a natural source of vitamin C. Well-known for supporting our immune function, vitamin C plays an important role in allowing our immune system to communicate and co-ordinate a response.

Sipping on herbal tea is a fantastic way of incorporating elderberries into your day-to-day lives. Pukka Herbs Organic Elderberry and Echinacea tea is packed with antioxidants to reduce stress and fight infections.

How are elderberries processed?

Berries destined for our teas are dried in whole bunches in a large hot air dryer at about 45°C for two days. Elderberry syrup, however, is prepared from a concentrate, which is made by evaporating freshly squeezed elderberry juice under low pressure at a low temperature to preserve its medicinal and nutritional properties.

The elderberry juice for our syrup takes 6kgs of berries concentrated to 1kg, giving you an amazing 12000mg of fresh berries for every 15mls of syrup.

Did you know?

The flowers and berries are indigestible in their raw form, so it’s always best to cook them before eating. They’re delicious when added to a blackberry and apple pie!