The Seer's Path

Elder

By Nione

Common Names: Common Elder, Black Elder, Bore Tree, American Elder and Sweet Elder

Elder trees are found throughout Europe, the most heavy concentration being in the U.K. In America though we have the Elder as a hardy woody shrub, growing to 12-15 ft in height. It has been used in this country mostly as an ornamental shrub. Bearing clusters of fragrant white star shaped flowers blooming in June and July. The flowers themselves are 1/4" across growing in clusters of 8". The purple-black berries mature in September and contain 3-4 small round seeds. The branching stems are covered with a rough, pitted grey bark while the central branches are smooth. Though the European Elder is much larger in size than its American cousin, the general description and uses are the same. The berries have been used to make wonderful jellies, jams, pies and most favored, wine.

 The Elder has been known thought the world as Nature’s medicine cabinet as the entire plant is useful for a variety of ailments. Recent preliminary studies have shown it may be useful in treating such viruses as herpes simplex and HIV. Elderberry has a stimulating effect on the immune system. Flu cells send out enzyme “spikes” which breakdown the walls of healthy cells allowing the virus to enter. The compounds in Elderberry thwart this process. In a clinical trial it was found to cure 90% of flu infections within 72 hours, while the control group, which took a placebo, took seven days to recover. This is truly a marvelous plant.

 The flowers and berries have been used to treat many conditions such as headaches due to colds, palsy, rheumatism, syphilis, jaundice, epilepsy and kidney stones. The berries have also been useful in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis. Elder flowers will help break a fever by inducing sweating. The berries are also a rich source of organic iron and good for the treatment of anemia. I would caution using the berries and flowers in moderation as they can cause diarrhea and sometimes vomiting. As with most things in life the key word is moderation.

 Externally all parts of the plant may be used from the root, bark, leaves to the flowers and the berries. Commonly called the Herbalists cosmetic tree. Many of today’s skin and complexion lotions, creams and soaps contain Elder. It is useful in the treatment of acne, burns, scalds and for simply softening the skin and improving its appearance. It has been said that applying the herb as a tea will fade the appearance of age spots and freckles, though I myself have not had any experience with this.

 Elder has also been used as a poultice for various swellings of the joints and tumors. A cold infusion of the flowers used as an eye wash has bee effective in the treatment of conjunctivitis. A gargle can also be made for use with tonsillitis and sore throat.

I would caution in the use of the roots, bark and the leaves internally as they do contain some levels of cyanide.

I will relate the following story to you that was found in a seventeenth-century botanical book and retold in Alma R. Hutchens book A Handbook of Native American Herbs regarding a King and his hunting party.

“Most of the day had passed away when the party realized that they were lost in the thick timber brush. Wandering in various directions they happily found a lonely farmhouse of prosperous condition. As they approached they saw an old gentleman, who had been crying, sitting on the porch. When the King asked why, he explained that he had slipped and fallen while carrying his grandfather from one room to another, and his grandfather had been angry with the misbehavior and had beaten him.

The King listened suspiciously and then entered the house. To his surprise he observed elders of advanced generations peacefully talking and going about their daily routines. After talking and observing the family, he inquired how they kept their good health to their advanced years. They told the King that for as long as they could remember they had eaten only simple foods, salt, home-prepared bread, milk and cheese with an emphasis on elderberries."

"As in name, legend and story, grateful people of all continents and in all times admire and appreciate the virtues of herbs."

It is easy to see why the Druids revered this herb. It has always been forbidden to cut the wood of an Elder tree lest you ensue the wrath of the Lady. In Britain the Elder was used in burial rites as it is sacred to the Mother Goddess. It has always been believed that a dryad inhabits the tree. When the tree has to be cut it is proper to perform a ritual three times while kneeling at its base promising to give wood back when you become a tree. Wearing Elder will ward off evil
attacks of many kinds, planting an Elder near the house will not only protect the inhabitants but will bring prosperity to the house. It is also said that planting it near the house will protect from lightening. Elder was used to bring good luck to the wedding couple and pregnant women kissed the tree to bring good fortune to the unborn baby and flutes made from the wood will bring spirits when the music is played. It is recommend that you do this away from other people.

We have been truly blessed to have this herb among us. Treat her with love, kindness and respect and she will bestow the same.