elder, an herb found in the United States and Europe as a tall shrub. ▪ INDICATIONS: This berry or flower may be useful for limiting the duration of symptoms from colds and flu; the flower is also used as a mouthwash and applied topically as an astringent for nasal and chest congestion, earache associated with chronic congestion, and hay fever. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It is not recommended during pregnancy and lactation, in children, or in those with known hypersensitivity to this plant or similar plants. Raw or unripe fruit can cause nausea, vomiting, and severe diarrhea.
