Elder


Elder


Latin Name: sambucus canadensis, sambucus nigra
Alternative Name: ellhorn, hollunder, elderberry, lady elder, black berried elder, old gal, old lady, pipe tree, rob elder, tree of doom, bour tree, bore tree, elrum, alhuren, battree, hylder, hylantree, eldrum, sureau, sweet Elder.
Forms Available: leaf, flower, berry

Elder – sambucus canadensis or nigra – Also known as Ellhorn, Elderberry, Lady Elder, and Black Berried Elder. A Druid Sacred Tree. Sacred to the White Lady and Midsummer Solstice. The Druids used it to both bless and curse. In Chinese medicine, the leaves, stems, and roots are used to treat fractures and muscle spasms. The flowers treat colds, sore throats, hay fever, and arthritis, and act as a mild laxative. Named the “country medicine chest” for its many health uses, the Elderberry is also rich in European folklore.
The black elder – S. nigra – can be used as an insecticide in the garden or to repel insects from the face and body. A simple infusion of the fresh leaf is made for this purpose. It can also be poured down mouse and mole holes. The berries are used for jam, wine, pies, and syrups. Medicinally, they help coughs, colic, diarrhea, sore throats, asthma, and flu. A pinch of cinnamon makes the tea more warming. The leaves are added to salves fro skin conditions. The flowers are infused for fevers, eruptive skin conditions such as measles, and severe bronchial and lung problems. A classic flu remedy is a mixture of elderflower, yarrow and peppermint teas. Keep the patient well covered, as the flowers promote sweating. Use two teaspoons of the herbs per cup of water, steep for twenty minutes, and take up to three cups a day.

Aromatherapy & Health Uses: The leaves of elder can be used as an antiseptic poultice. Elder flowers can be taken in hot infusion to aid relief of upper respiratory tract infections.

Other Uses: Elder wands can be used to drive out evil spirits or thought forms. Use for: Money; Riches; Love; Blessings; Banishing; Releasing; Consecration; Cursing; Purification; Cleansing.


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