Elderberry Hydrosol / Elderflower Hydrosol
Sambucus nigra/Sambucus caerulea
Little is documented about the benefits of Elderberry and Elderflower Hydrosols, and the differences between each are not clearly defined. Look to the citation from hydrosol expert Suzanne Catty, in the Uses and Applications section below for information on the potential benefits of Elderberry Hydrosol.
Elderberry Hydrosol possesses a mild, pleasant aroma that is almost sweet and fruity, as far as hydrosols go. I almost detect a floral note as well.
Botanical Name
Sambucus nigra/Sambucus caerulea
Aromatic Strength
Mild
Shelf Life
Up to 2 years if stored properly (refrigeration is recommended).
Reported Properties, Uses and Applications
Suzanne Catty suggests that Elder Flower Hydrosol is calming and helpful in easing stress. I personally enjoy a sense of calm when using Elderberry Hydrosol. Catty also reports that Elderflower Hydrosol is a circulatory stimulant and can be helpful as a muscle compress. [Suzanne Catty, Hydrosols: The Next Aromatherapy (Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 2001), 130.]
Sustainability and Conservation Status
Sambucus nigra:
Least Concern
Source: https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/61684/88328586
Last Accessed: February 21, 2026
Sambucus caerulea:
Not Evaluated by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Last Searched: February 21, 2026
To learn more about the conservation status of essential oil bearing plants and how to use the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, please refer to AromaWeb's Guide to Essential Oils and Sustainability.
Safety Information
Read AromaWeb's Hydrosol Safety Guidelines.
The hydrosol information and safety precautions provided within this area are intended for educational purposes only. Neither AromaWeb, LLC nor its founder take responsibility for how you use the information provided.
Helpful Sources of Information About Elder Flower Hydrosol
Hydrosols: The Next Aromatherapy
Author: Suzanne Catty
Aromatic Waters: Therapeutic, Cosmetic, and Culinary Hydrosol Applications
Author: Amy Kreydin
