Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

European Elder (Sambucus nigra) has a long history of traditional use in folk medicine, particularly across Europe. Its flowers and leaves have been applied topically for a variety of skin ailments, including bites and stings from insects. Traditional herbal texts and ethnobotanical records indicate that poultices or infusions made from elder leaves were used to soothe inflammation, reduce swelling, and provide relief from discomfort associated with bites and stings. The rationale for its use is likely due to the plant’s purported anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

However, despite these historical uses, scientific validation for the effectiveness of European Elder in treating bites and stings is minimal. There are no robust clinical studies or well-documented pharmacological investigations specifically evaluating its efficacy for this purpose. Most modern research on elder focuses on its antiviral and immune-modulating properties, particularly regarding its berries and flowers for respiratory illnesses. Thus, while elder has traditional uses for bites and stings, the evidence supporting its effectiveness is weak and largely anecdotal, earning it a low evidence rating.

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