Sambucus nigra
Sambucus nigra · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (7 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Sambucus nigra, commonly known as European elder, is a versatile plant utilized for its extensive therapeutic properties, including antiviral, analgesic, antioxidant, and diuretic activities. Various parts of the plant, such as the flower, fruit, leaf, and bark, can be processed into preparations like elderberry hydrolate or ethanolic and hydroalcoholic extracts. These components contain bioactive chemicals including rutin, zinc, and (E)-beta-damascenone, which contribute to its medicinal potency. Research highlights its effectiveness in addressing various conditions, ranging from influenza and inflammation to atherosclerosis. By leveraging these natural compounds, the plant serves as a significant resource for managing oxidative stress and immune health.
- Synonyms
- Sambucus Nigra Var. Laciniata · Sambucus Nigra Var. Albovariegata · 56 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Viburnaceae
- Distribution
- Northern America
- Plant Parts
- Flower · Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Sambucus nigra is a versatile plant known by a variety of names across different cultures and languages. In English-speaking regions, it is most frequently referred to as Elder or Elderberry. The species also holds local significance in other parts of the world, such as being called Almindelig hyld in certain contexts. Additionally, it is identified by the name Dagrau Lesu in specific linguistic traditions. These diverse common names highlight the widespread global recognition of this botanical species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Sambucus nigra is a versatile plant known to be identified by several different botanical synonyms. Throughout various scientific records, it is frequently referred to as Sambucus alba or Sambucus aurea. Depending on the specific classification used, researchers may also encounter the names Sambucus columnaris and Sambucus dissecta. Additionally, the taxon is sometimes documented under the synonym Sambucus elegans. These varying nomenclatures reflect the complex taxonomic history associated with this widely recognized species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Sambucus nigra belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Dipsacales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Sambucus, it shares close characteristics with its botanical relatives. Finally, this plant is officially categorized within the family Viburnaceae, solidifying its unique place in the plant hierarchy.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Viburnaceae |
| Genus | Sambucus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Sambucus nigra exhibits a widespread presence across various regions, particularly throughout Africa and its surrounding territories. This species can be found spanning the diverse landscapes of Macaronesia, including the lush islands of the Azores and Madeira. Its range extends deeply into Northern Africa, establishing a consistent foothold across the continent's northern reaches. Specifically, the plant thrives within the unique environments of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. This broad distribution highlights the remarkable adaptability of the species across different Mediterranean and Atlantic climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Sambucus nigra typically adopts a tree-like growth form that allows it to stand as a sturdy, self-supporting plant in various landscapes. While it can be found at a modest minimum height of 2 meters, many specimens reach much more impressive proportions. In many environments, the plant frequently establishes a robust presence with a minimum height of approximately 6.13 meters. Ultimately, this species can reach a maximum height of up to 10 meters as it matures. This structural versatility makes it a dynamic addition to any botanical collection.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Sambucus nigra is a versatile medicinal plant that has long been recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties. Scientific research confirms that this species possesses significant antiviral activity, making it a promising candidate for managing various viral infections. Beyond its ability to combat viruses, the plant also exhibits notable antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, which can support wound healing and cellular protection. Additionally, its traditional uses are supported by evidence of its analgesic and diuretic activities, helping to alleviate pain and manage fluid balance. These combined therapeutic attributes highlight the significant potential of Sambucus nigra in both folk medicine and modern nutraceutical development.
Compounds
Sambucus nigra is a chemically diverse plant that serves as a significant source of various bioactive compounds. Research indicates that the species contains high concentrations of flavonoids such as rutin and quercetin, which contribute to its potent antioxidant and radical-scavenging properties. Advanced screening methods have also identified bergapten within the plant, highlighting its potential utility as a biomarker for differentiating various plant parts. Furthermore, the organic profile of Sambucus nigra includes specific compounds like 2-acetyl pyrrole and furfural, which are found in elderberry hydrolate. These diverse constituents collectively support the plant's therapeutic applications, ranging from skin regeneration to oxidative stress protection.
Conditions
Sambucus nigra exhibits significant antioxidant activity through its rich content of phenolic compounds and anthocyanins. The plant demonstrates effective antimicrobial properties, specifically showing sensitivity in treating Staphylococcus aureus. Its extracts are widely recognized for their anti-inflammatory effects, which help modulate immune responses and reduce inflammatory mediators. Research also suggests that Sambucus nigra can be used as part of botanical therapies to address atherosclerosis. Additionally, this medicinal herb is traditionally and scientifically noted for its ability to treat the flu and other respiratory conditions.
Preparations
Sambucus nigra is prepared as elderberry hydrolate to provide therapeutic, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing benefits in palliative care. The plant is also prepared as ethanolic (E-99.5%) and hydroalcoholic (H-70%) extracts to study their polyphenolic profiles and regenerative activity in keratinocytes. Various forms of the plant are processed as ethanolic and hydroalcoholic extracts to be used in topical oleogel and hydrogel formulations for burn wound healing. Additionally, Sambucus nigra is prepared as bark, which is recognized as a potential source for pharmacological studies in ethnobotanical research. Finally, the species is prepared as an extract to utilize its high radical-scavenging activity and antioxidant properties in functional foods.
Parts used
Sambucus nigra is a versatile medicinal plant that offers various bioactive components across its different anatomical structures. Scientific studies have identified that the flowers of the plant contain high amounts of specific amides and beneficial phenolic compounds. Additionally, the fruit, commonly known as elderberries, serves as a significant source of anthocyanins and therapeutic hydrolates for skincare. The leaves also play a crucial role, contributing to the plant's antioxidant profile and serving as an extract for synthesizing antimicrobial nanoparticles. Together, these parts—the flowers, fruit, and leaves—demonstrate the complex chemical diversity that makes the species a valuable resource in traditional and modern medicine.