Elderberry / Jie Gu Mu
Sambucus Nigra
AKA: “A Queen Among Herbs” - Beryl
This perennial bush grows easily in most climates. When we move to Stenella, we had A LOT of work to do, just to move into our dwelling. Piotrek and my dad were just finishing the floors in the house, we hadn’t move anything in yet. On my way to bring lunch to the house, I met one of our neighbors who’s been a farmer for at least 60 years, he said he had elder trees for sale at his farm. He’d grown them from seed. I took a detour with lunch in tow and grabbed two trees. Let’s just say my inspiration was poorly received when I brought a cold lunch and 2 trees to be planted. We collected our first berry harvest this past year and albeit small, it sure was magical. It has a cool energy and an acrid and bitter taste. It is most commonly associated with the Metal and Water Elements.
Eastern Properties
Purify Blood
Releases to Exterior
Clears Heat
Dispels Wind
Resolves Damp
Tonifies Lung
Western Properties
Diaphoretic
Alterative
Laxative
Stimulant
Anti-rheumatic
Antimicrobial
Antiviral
Anti-inflammatory
Promotes Lactation
Medicinal Uses
Berries tinctured are used for immunity, sore throats, colds, hay fever, cough, bronchial spasm, upper respiratory conditions, rheumatism and arthritis.
Flowers tinctured are used to induce sweating.
The flowers can be made into an eyewash for conjunctivitis.
The flowers can also be made into an infusion to gargle with tonsillitis and sore throats.
The flowers in salves and ointments are used to treat skin irritation.
The leaves are used in salves and ointments for bruising woulds.
The berries can be made into tea for constipation and diarrhea.
The green bark is used to treat severe asthma.
Magical Lore
The prime time for collection of flowers and berries is under the full moon.
An elder tree mother will protect her grove from lightening, disease, crippling and ailments.
The flower water is said to make the skin more vital.
Elders are always familiar as friends.
Elders are said to ward off evil and protect against witches.
Heal with Elderberry