Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

European Elder (Sambucus nigra) has a long history of traditional use in European herbal medicine, including for managing minor external bleeding such as cuts and abrasions. The flowers and leaves were often applied as poultices or compresses to wounds, believed to help staunch bleeding and promote healing. These uses are documented in various ethnobotanical sources and historical herbals, including Nicholas Culpeper’s "Complete Herbal" (17th century), where elder leaves were recommended for their astringent properties, thought to contract tissues and reduce bleeding.

However, scientific validation for this practice is minimal. While elder leaves and flowers contain tannins and other compounds with mild astringent effects, direct studies evaluating their efficacy for stopping external bleeding are lacking. In modern herbal reference texts, the use of European Elder for external bleeding is generally referenced as a traditional or folk remedy rather than a scientifically supported intervention. Most clinical and pharmacological research on elder focuses on its berries and flowers for respiratory infections and immune support, not wound care.

In summary, the use of European Elder for external bleeding is primarily supported by traditional herbal knowledge with very limited scientific investigation or evidence. It should not be relied upon as a primary treatment for significant bleeding or wounds.

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