The leaves act externally as:

• softening
• healing

and internally as:

• laxative
• expectorant
• diuretic
• diaphoretic

Also, crushed leaves are used for:

• bruises
• sprains
• wounds and chilblains

For colds and fever, elderberry is combined with: mint, yarrow, or hyssop. For flu, it is combined with agrimony. For nasal congestion, it is combined with goldenrod.

Therapeutic properties and uses (the flowers and berries are used):

• pain relief
• fighting infections
• treatment of cough, cold, and sinusitis
• skin conditions
• treatment of fever
• treatment of constipation
• remedy for swelling (edema) due to its diuretic property

The dried leaves and boiled berries of elderberry, mainly of the European species, are used in teas, liquid extracts, and capsules.