ENGLISH NAME: Danewort (Dwarf
Elder)
LATIN NAME: Sambucus
ebulus
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Bez chebdí
Turkey: Cüce mürver
Bulgaria: Черен бъз – джудже (Cheren bŭz
– dzhudzhe)
Georgia: ჯუჯა სამბუკა (Juja sambuka) (“dwarf
sambucus”)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Forest
clearings, rural scrublands
Elevation: 200–1,500 meters
Terrain: Sunny glades,
forest edges, clearings, and open woodlands
DESCRIPTION:
Danewort is a herbaceous shrub growing 1 to 2 meters tall. It has pinnately
compound leaves with serrated leaflets and forms dense clusters of small, white
to pale pink flowers in summer. These are followed by shiny, black or deep red
berries in late summer or early autumn. Unlike common elder (Sambucus nigra),
Danewort dies back in winter and re-emerges from its rhizomes.
USABLE PARTS: Berry
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory agent. Historically
employed in folk medicine for joint pain, fevers, and infections.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Unripe berries, leaves, and other plant parts may be toxic and cause nausea,
vomiting, or diarrhea if ingested. Only ripe berries should be used and always
cooked.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
May be combined with elderflower or rosehip in immune-boosting syrups or teas.
PREPARATION:
Ripe berries can be dried, cooked into jams or syrups, or used to prepare
tinctures. Always heat-treat to eliminate toxic compounds.
HARVEST TIME:
Late summer to early fall, when berries are fully ripe and dark-colored.
HARVEST METHOD:
Strip berries gently from the stems. Sort and clean thoroughly before drying or
cooking.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry berries completely and store in airtight, labeled containers in a cool, dry
place. Use only after cooking or infusion.