Elderberries have been used historically and traditionally as food, particularly in the dried form. Elderberry wine, pie, and lemonade are some of the popular ways to prepare this plant as food. The leaves were touted to be pain relieving and to promote healing of injuries when applied as a poultice. Native Americans used the plant for infections, coughs, and skin conditions. Elderberry has been used historically as an effective treatment for influenza. This extract is in a base of pure grain alcohol.