Elderberry

Botanical Name: Sambucus nigra

Botanical Description: Elderberry is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Adoxaceae family, native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia.

Cosmetic Benefits: Elderberry extract is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and anthocyanins, which help protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants. It also has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making it beneficial for soothing irritated or acne-prone skin. Elderberry extract helps improve skin tone and texture, promoting a clear, radiant complexion.

Scientific Overview: Elderberries are known for their small, dark purple-black fruits, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Cultivation and Harvest: Elderberries are cultivated in temperate regions worldwide for their edible fruits and medicinal properties. The berries are harvested when fully ripe, typically in the late summer or early fall.

Plant Morphology: Elderberry plants have pinnately compound leaves and produce clusters of small, white flowers that develop into berries. The berries are small, round, and dark purple-black when ripe.