Elderberry Powder is used for its anti-oxidant activity, to lower cholesteral, improve vision, boost the immune system, and improve heart health and for tonsilitis, coughs, colds and flu, plus bacterial and viral infections. Most species of the berries are edible if picked ripe and then cooked, however, it is important to note that most uncooked berries and other parts of plants from this genus are poisonous. Sambucus nigra is the variety of Elderberry most often used for health benefits as it is the only variety considered to be non-toxic even when not cooked, but it is still recommended to cook the berries at least a little to enhance their taste and digestibility.