As usual I digress, so back to Elders. Here is what the writer had to say so long ago:
'Considerable medicinal value has at all times been popularly attributed to this plant, and it is only recently that it has fallen into comparative disuse amongst medicinal practitioners. In the rural districts of England a wine is made from the berries, which is in great repute, and when drunk hot is an agreeable stimulant. The flowers are employed for making distilled water, which is frequently used as a refrigerant, and on account of its agreeable odour is introduced into many articles of confectionery. The pith on account of its solidity and great lightness, is used for making small figures and balls for electrical exper- iments. The undeveloped buds, when pickled, form a good substitute for capers.'
Surely all a reflection of the wide degree of philosophical understanding of all things over one hundred and fifty years ago, a time when this country was in its prime - don't look around today!