Nature has always been wise and very generous; that is why It gives us one of the best creations: the sauco, which is a source of treatment for many aliments.
The sauco, whose scientific name is Sambucus peruviana, is native to Peru and surrounding regions. It is distributed from Argentina to Costa Rica. In our country, it is found in the regions of Áncash, Lima, Huánuco, Junín, Huancavelica, Cusco and Apurímac.
In good conditions, the Sambucus peruviana, reaches up to 12 m high, but its average height ranges from 3 to 6 meters. It is usually found planted in farm fences, on the edge of ditches and in orchards, because it requires good humidity.
The Healing Tree
One of the main benefits of the sauco is related to viral diseases. According to recent research, the sauco protects our body from infections and reduces the chances of getting colds, sore throats or fevers, since its berries stop the production of cytokines, which direct neutrophils (a type of white blood cell), which originate inflammations, especially in the flu.
Another of its great contributions is its calming power, as its berries help calm states of anxiety and nervousness. In addition, it helps eliminate cholesterol and prevent the production of kidney stones. Its consumption is also recommended for its cardiovascular properties and its characteristic of stimulating the immune system.
It is also a good diuretic, helps eliminate toxins from our body, cleanse the blood and the circulatory system. The juice of its leaves and the cooking of the bark work very well as a purgative. In addition, it helps with bladder and prostate conditions.
Its fruit is characterized by its low sugar content and its high amount of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin C, which is why it is recommended for people who follow some type of diet. An infusion of the roots of the elderberry helps combat fluid retention, while a tea of its fresh flowers deflates the skin, applying it as a compress to the affected area.
The sauco has a wide altitude range: from 2,800 to 3,900 masl, although the optimum is between 3,200 and 3,800 masl.
Generally, frosts do not affect it and it produces fruit for several tens of years.