Skin Conditioning
SAMBUCUS NIGRA WATER
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A hydrosol of black elder flowers or berries. Traditional and gentle, but raw elderberry requires heat processing to destroy cyanogenic glycosides.
Sambucus Nigra Water is the hydrosol of black elder (Sambucus nigra) flowers or berries. Elderflower and elderberry are widely used in traditional herbal medicine and food (elderberry syrup, elderflower cordial) for cold-season support. Raw elderberry contains cyanogenic glycosides (sambunigrin, prunasin) that liberate hydrogen cyanide on enzymatic hydrolysis — these are destroyed by heat processing. Cosmetic hydrosols typically use properly processed material and carry negligible toxic constituents, but supplier QC matters. The water fraction contains flavonoids (rutin, quercetin), anthocyanins (from berries), and minor aromatic compounds. Typical use 1-20% in natural-positioning formulations.
Function
Skin benefits
- Elderflower/elderberry hydrosol
- Contains flavonoids (rutin, anthocyanins if berry) and natural aromatics
- Gentle antioxidant/anti-inflammatory positioning
- Traditional herbal use
Known concerns
- Raw elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides — improperly processed material can yield HCN
- Requires proper processing (heat treatment)
- Variable composition
- Rare contact sensitization
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related skin conditionings
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.