Elder, aka sambucus nigra, is a flowering perennial shrub with a long history of use ranging from its healthful properties to using the hollowed stems, resembling a pipe, for blowing up a fire. Sambucus nigra flowers are a pure diaphoretic and are most commonly infused as elder flower tea or included in herbal infusion blends. Historically, Elder Flowers have been infused into ales, cordials, vinegars, and water. Cosmetic recipes have also been known to include elderflower as an ingredient.