When you think of Above & Beyond Shop, you probably think of elderberry.
After all, that's the little purple berry that turns into the syrup that has become a staple in so many families' wellness routines.
But here's something many people don't realize...
Before every elderberry, there is an elderflower.
Every spring, our elderberry plants burst into thousands upon thousands of tiny white blossoms. For a few short weeks each June, our fields are covered in delicate clusters of fragrant flowers before a single berry has even begun to form.
Most people wait for the berries.
We treasure both.
One Plant. Two Different Gifts
If I had to explain the difference in the simplest way possible, I'd say this:
Elderberry is like Dad.
Strong. Protective. Ready to step in when challenges arise.
Elderflower is like Mom.
Gentle. Calming. Restorative. Bringing peace when life feels overwhelming.
While the berry has been extensively studied for its immune-supporting anthocyanins and antioxidant polyphenols, the flower contains its own unique blend of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and aromatic constituents that have been traditionally valued for centuries.
Research suggests elderflowers contain compounds such as rutin, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol, which contribute to their antioxidant activity and support of a healthy inflammatory response.
The Research That Changed My Perspective
Ironically, I wasn't researching elderflower because I wanted to create another product.
I was researching my own health.
During a season when I was working to support a healthy inflammatory response in my own body, I kept coming across references to elderflower in herbal literature and scientific publications.
Then it hit me.
I looked out across our farm and realized, We're surrounded by elderflowers.
It felt like one of those quiet moments where God gently reminds you that sometimes the answer has been growing right in front of you all along.
My own wellness journey included many lifestyle changes, so I can't attribute my improvements to any one herb. But elderflower became a meaningful part of that journey and I’m thankful to report I have reduced my inflammation by 50%.
Why We Harvest Fresh Flowers
Nearly every elderflower tincture you'll find is made from dried flowers that have been harvested, processed, packaged, and often shipped long distances.
We chose a different path.
For a few short weeks each June, we hand-harvest fresh elderflowers from our own farm. After the morning dew has evaporated, we carefully harvest each blossom by hand and begin our extraction process within just two to three hours.
The flowers are never dried. Never imported. Never stored for months before extraction.
Why We Use a Triple Extraction
Rather than relying on a single extraction medium, we use organic triple-distilled Ocean Vodka from Hawaii, organic coconut-derived vegetable glycerin, and organic raw honey.
Different plant constituents dissolve best in different solvents. Our goal is to capture a broader spectrum of the flower's naturally occurring compounds while creating a tincture that is both effective and enjoyable to take.
Each batch macerates for six to eight weeks before bottling, and every batch is prayed over.
Why Elderberry and Elderflower Belong Together
People often ask if they should choose elderberry or elderflower.
My answer is simple: I wouldn't choose.
Every morning, I take both: a tablespoon of elderberry syrup and a couple droppers of elderflower tincture.
The berry supports the body's immune defenses with antioxidant-rich polyphenols, while the flower contributes its own unique botanical compounds traditionally used to support calm, seasonal wellness, and a healthy inflammatory response.
Protection and restoration. Strength and gentleness. Two different gifts from the same remarkable plant.
Why We Sell Out
Elderflowers bloom for only a brief window each summer. Once those blossoms become berries, the opportunity is gone until next year.
Because we refuse to use imported or dried flowers, every year's production is limited to what our own fields can produce. Last year, we sold through nearly our entire harvest within a few months, which is why subscription members receive priority.
This year's elderflower tincture is available for preorder now and will ship with our September orders.
If you've been curious about adding elderflower alongside your elderberry routine, now is a beautiful time to experience both gifts from this incredible plant.
Because our elderflower harvest only happens once a year, quantities are limited to what we were able to gather from our fields this summer.
References
Ulbricht C, et al. “An Evidence-Based Systematic Review of Elderberry and Elderflower (Sambucus nigra) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration.” Journal of Dietary Supplements, 2014.
European Medicines Agency. Community Herbal Monograph on Sambucus nigra L., flos.
Charlebois D. “Elderberry as a Medicinal Plant.” Issues in New Crops and New Uses.