Dwarf elderberries are toxic, so be careful not to mistake them for black elderberries. Both plants belong to the same botanical family and have similar uses, though the black elder is more widely used because of its more tolerable smell.
Dwarf Elder Scientific Facts
- Other names are Blood Elder, danewort, walewort, and Wild Elder.
- French – Hieble.
- Spanish – Yezgo.
- Environment – Spread along forest borders and excellent fields throughout Europe and naturalized to America.
- Description—A vigorous plant of the Caprifoliaceae family with a disgusting odor, it has an upright stem that grows up to 1.5 m high. Its flowers are small and white and grow in umbels. The fruit are blackberries that appear in upgrowing clusters.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The root and the leaves.
Healing Properties
The whole plant contains glycosides, essential oil, tannin, and saponin. It has strong sudorific, diuretic, and laxative properties, and therefore it is used as:
- Diuretic – for edema (retention of fluid in tissues) or renal insufficiency.
- Sudorific – for febrile afflictions (colds, influenza, malaria, etc.).
- Antirheumatic – a decoction or alcoholic extract of dwarf elder is externally applied as compresses or massage to ease rheumatic aches.
- Insect repellent – fresh dwarf elder leaves, or their decoction, sprayed, repel mosquitoes.
WARNING! Never exceed the recommended doses of root or leaves. Its berries are incredibly toxic.
How to use Dwarf Elder
- Decoction with 30 g of leaves and/or root per liter of water. Boil for 5-10 minutes. Drink up to three cups daily.
- Compresses soaked in a decoction similar to the one mentioned above can also be soaked in dwarf elder alcoholic extract.
- Massage with this decoction or the alcoholic extract.
Frequently Asked Question
What specific conditions have studies linked dwarf elder treatment to?
Traditional Use: Historically, dwarf elder was used for edema, joint pain, and wounds.
Scientific Interest: Research focuses on its potential to manage inflammation, boost the immune system, and offer antioxidant benefits. This has led to investigations into possible applications for arthritis, colds, flu, and metabolic disorders.
I understand leaves are the most used part, but how are they prepared?
Topical: Leaf extracts are made into ointments or crushed into poultices for skin inflammation and wound healing.
Internal (Caution): While teas and decoctions were traditionally made, internal use is discouraged due to potential toxicity. Stick to safe, commercially prepared supplements under medical guidance.
What active compounds in dwarf elders make them medicinally beneficial?
Flavonoids: Antioxidants like quercetin and rutin can combat inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Lectins: Proteins with potential immune-modulating effects; researchers are examining their role in disease management.
Others: Phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and triterpenoids also contribute to dwarf elder’s complex biological activity.
Are there studies supporting dwarf anti-inflammatory effects?
Yes, but primarily in lab/animal models. Dwarf elder extracts can inhibit enzymes involved in the inflammatory process. This suggests promise, but more human studies are needed for firm conclusions.
Can dwarf elder truly help with the common cold?
Possibly, but the evidence is mixed. Some limited studies suggest extracts might shorten the duration of colds and reduce symptom severity.
Can dwarf elder’s lectins cause digestive upset, as I’ve heard?
Yes, if raw parts are consumed. Cooking generally deactivates lectins. However, even cooked parts in excessive amounts can still induce nausea in some people. Stick to standardized supplements within recommended doses.
Are there any populations that should avoid dwarf elders?
Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Safety is not established.
Children: Not recommended due to potential toxicity.
Individuals with autoimmune conditions: Lectins could interfere with the immune system. Consultation with a doctor is essential.
People taking certain medications: Interactions are possible, so always discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Beyond studies, are there countries with extended traditional use supporting its safety?
Yes. In parts of Europe, dwarf elders have been used as an external remedy in folk medicine for centuries. This underscores the low risks of topical use, but internal use requires more caution.
Is dwarf elder endangered? How can I source it responsibly?
Not currently. It’s relatively widespread. However, to support sustainable practices, look for cultivated dwarf elder in products instead of wild-harvested sources.
Consult your doctor! They are best equipped to integrate your medical history, risks, and potential benefits into deciding about Dwarf elder use.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 590. Print.
- PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28397551/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22965343/
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-427/dwarf-elder
- RxList: https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/dwarf_elder.htm