Various other parts of the elder seem to have accomplished this function quite satisfactorily, and their diuretic action was reinforced by their usefulness in cases of kidney stones where this action is most beneficial. Diuretic activity could also help to explain the activity of elder in helping rheumatic, arthritic and gouty conditions. It must be said, however, that it is the leaves, bark, berries and root that have been most used for this action. There is no likelihood of any harm being done by the use of elder in any dose short of the absurd. It is a safe, gentle, supportive remedy.
Elder is undoubtedly a valuable remedy to have on hand.
One can think of it as being principally useful for feverish conditions, when it is considered to induce a cooling, cleansing sweat, but particularly where this febrile or sub-febrile state is associated with respiratory troubles. Over-production of mucus, or catarrh, and the congestive lung or bronchial conditions that often arise from this, are amenable to elderflowers' actions, and if this congestion or catarrh becomes infected leading to inflammation or fever, the plant's advantages become even more obvious. Not only does it reduce the fever directly, but the diuretic and laxative effects of the remedy underline its cleansing benefits in general. Another factor to have in mind is that elderflowers at least have a relaxing effect on the body. They are effective, therefore, when there is agitation and restlessness, as is so often the case, and they will help to induce a healing rest when the body has been racked by the rigours of the illness.