Elderberry is a tall herbaceous or subshrub of the family Elderberry in the family Wufu. The stems are ribbed, pinnate compound leaves alternate or opposite, narrowly ovate, corolla white, red when the fruit is ripe. It is named because it has the effect of bruises, fractures and pain. It is a common Chinese herbal medicine, which is also called capsule or luying due to different geographical distribution. The roots of this plant are rich in bioactive components and have high medicinal value.
The main production areas of elderberry are in Shaanxi, Jiangxi, Jiangsu, Yunnan and other places. It usually grows in a hillside, valley, riverside, etc., and prefers a moist environment. Elderberry has hypertrophied roots and is shaped like a chicken's foot, so it is also called "black-bone chicken foot".
The medicinal value of elderberry is mainly reflected in its health care effect on bones and joints. Its roots, stems, leaves, flowers and fruits can be used as medicine. The root or whole herb has the effect of dispelling wind and dampness, invigorating blood and dissipating stasis. According to the "Compendium of Materia Medica", the elderberry herb is peaceful, suitable for bruises, bones**, mashed and edible. Elderberry is rich in protein, amino acids, minerals and trace elements, which are important components of bones and joints. Elderberry can promote the growth and repair of bones, enhance the ability of bones to resist compression, and has a good effect on fractures, osteoporosis and other diseases.
Elderberry can be used in a variety of ways, from decoction to powder and applied externally. However, due to the strong medicinal properties of elderberry, it needs to be used according to the doctor's instructions and cannot be used at will.