by DaySounds © 2013-17
Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa)
even when eaten raw. The flowers of both species are white; however, black elderberry
flowers grow forming flat-looking umbels, and the berries are black; while, red elderberry
flowers grow forming racemes, and the berries are red.
The berries might be edible when ripe and boiled twice (throwing the water away
each time); however, even after having done that, their ingestion might produce some
problems, like stomach aches and diarrhea. They boost the immune system, helping it
to fight cold and flu viruses more efficiently (they contains antioxidant properties). The
leaves, stems, and roots (like black elderberry's) contain stronger concentrations of the
same mildly toxic alkaloid found in the berries, so they should be avoided.
© DaySounds
PO Box 2145
Estes Park, CO 80517
USA