Can Elderberry Leaves Color Oils and Fats and Act as a Mosquito Repellent?

[JGM_14]

I found that the leaves of the elderberry tree (Sambucus nigra) can be used to add a green coloring to oils and fats, among other things, is this claim true?
http://www.pfaf.org/database/plants.php?Sambucus+nigra"
Also what compound in the edible berries makes it a good pH indicator (red=acid blue=base)? The leaves make good mosquito repellent (tried it, it works, and good).

 

[chemisttree]

I found that the leaves of the elderberry tree (Sambucus nigra) can be used to add a green coloring to oils and fats, among other things, is this claim true?

Don't know.

Also what compound in the edible berries makes it a good pH indicator (red=acid blue=base)?

Probably anthocyanin(s). Here is some more info.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthocyanin