Elderflower: A Wild Bloom with Generous Gifts

There are certain plants that seem to arrive with a quiet sense of purpose. Elderflower is one of them. For just a few fleeting weeks each year, usually in late spring, the creamy blossoms of the elder tree (Sambucus nigra) open up across hedgerows, gardens, and woodland edges. Their scent, delicate yet distinctive, carries a note of both comfort and clarity.

To many herbalists across Europe and the British Isles, elderflower has long been a staple in the seasonal toolkit, not for bold effects or dramatic interventions, but for its gentle, versatile support of the body’s natural rhythms. At JuneAura, we’re drawn to plants like this. Humble, generous, steeped in legacy.

Traditionally Valued by Herbalists For:

• Soothing seasonal discomforts

Elderflower is commonly used in herbal infusions to help the body respond to seasonal shifts. It's especially favoured during times of colds or hay fever, often taken as a warm tea to gently encourage sweating and ease congestion.

• Respiratory support

Its mildly expectorant nature makes it a traditional choice for supporting the airways. When paired with herbs like peppermint and thyme, it’s often included in blends to help soften the discomfort of dry air or mild respiratory irritations.

• Skin and digestive comfort

Whether used topically in balms or internally as a gentle tea, elderflower has a long-standing reputation for soothing the skin and easing digestion after rich meals.

• Antioxidant content

Rich in bioflavonoids and phenolic compounds, elderflowers are also celebrated for their antioxidant profile, believed to support the body’s natural responses to inflammation and oxidative stress.

While modern science is still exploring the full extent of elderflower’s properties, its long history in traditional practice speaks for itself. This is a plant that’s been quietly tending to human wellbeing for centuries.

A Tree of Tales: Elder in Folklore

Before we steep, stir, and bottle, it’s worth pausing with the elder a moment longer.

Across the British Isles and much of Europe, the elder tree has carried whispers of enchantment. Folklore tells of the Elder Mother, a spirit said to dwell within the tree, watching over those who honoured her, and punishing those who didn’t. Woodcutters would bow and murmur a request before taking any part of the tree, lest misfortune follow.

In Eastern European stories, including those I grew up with, the elder tree was seen as both wild and wise. Its blossoms marked the arrival of early summer, and their scent was said to be a sign that fairies had visited the garden.

Even today, I can’t bring myself to harvest elderflower without a moment of stillness. A soft thank-you. A memory of those before me who did the same.

A Family Ritual: Grandmother’s Elderflower Cordial (Socată)

Each year, just as the flowers began to bloom, my grandmother would disappear into the garden with a pair of kitchen scissors and a basket. She always knew the exact moment the blossoms were at their peak, open, fragrant, yet not past their prime. She never measured anything with scales. Just instinct, tradition, and love.

She called it socată. We just called it summer.

You’ll Need:

• 12 large elderflower heads (freshly picked, gently shaken to remove insects)

• 4.2 litres of still water

• 400 grams of sugar

• 2 large unwaxed lemons (sliced)

• Optional: a few grains of rice or a pinch of dry yeast to encourage fermentation

To Make:

1. In a large clean jar or container, dissolve the sugar in a portion of the water.

2. Add the elderflowers and lemon slices to the jar.

3. Pour the sugar-water mixture over the flowers and lemons.

4. Add the remaining water to fill the jar.

5. Cover the jar with a clean cloth or lid that allows airflow (not airtight).

6. Leave in a warm spot for 2–3 days, stirring daily.

7. Taste after day two (once it’s lightly fizzy and fragrant, it’s ready).

8. Strain through fine muslin or cheesecloth into sterilised bottles.

9. Store in the fridge and enjoy within a week, or freeze in batches to preserve it longer.

To serve: Pour over ice with a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint. Or top with sparkling water for a refreshing garden fizz.

It was never just about the drink. It was about gathering something wild, something fleeting, and turning it into a gift we could share. A toast to the season, in every glass.

We share this not as medical advice, but as a tribute to tradition. Elderflower has been used for centuries in many cultures as part of a balanced and mindful approach to wellbeing. As always, anyone pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication should speak with a healthcare practitioner before introducing new herbs.

But for those simply looking to align with the rhythm of the seasons, to gather, brew, and savour,elderflower offers a timeless invitation.