The leaves, stems and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides which liberate hydrogen cyanide when crushed or chewed. While elderberry cordials are drunk widely, it has not been accepted for use as a traditional herbal medicine (European Medicines Agency, draft report, 2013) Note see also Toxicity under Sambucus nigra

Oakeley, Dr. Henry F. (2013). Wellcome Library notes. Link

The leaves, stems and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides which liberate hydrogen cyanide when crushed or chewed.

Oakeley, Dr. Henry F. (2013). Wellcome Library notes

Previously grown as Sambucus nigra f. porphyrophylla 'Gerda'

Plants of the World online, Kew Science http://plantsoftheworldonline.org/?q=Sambucus%20nigra%20f.%20porphyrophylla Link

The following notes refer to the uses of the species of this plant in traditional medicine. S. nigra is considered anti-inflammatory; aperient; diaphoretic; diuretic; emetic; emollient; expectorant; galactogogue; haemostatic; laxative; ophthalmic; purgative; salve and stimulant.