As summer starts to fade the Elderberries are one of the first wild fruits to ripen. Their tiny jeweled berries filling hedgerows with deep purple hues.

Elderberry is well known for its immune health benefits, but there is so much more to this tiny berry that is something between a currant and a blackberry.

Elder is an ancient and spiritual tree, one which has much myth and folklore attached to it, and a fond place in my heart. I cannot see or think of Elder without envisioning the Elder witch. A fitting elemental for this tree with its gnarled and twisted branches.

Elder is the energy of mystery, resilience, and protection. Though small those berries give off an energy of strength.

The Spiritual Energy of Elderberry

Elder trees have dual energy, they are both Water (elderberry) and Air (elderflower).

Elderberry energy is that of advancement and pushing forward. Elderberry says make the most of opportunities in front of you. Act with confidence as you pursue your goal or reward.

Elderberry is balancing to the emotional body as well as balancing to the throat and root chakras, it brings calming effects during times of stress and brings the energy of the sun burning away the fog of confusion. If you are not sure of a path forward, Elderberry can burn away your uncertainty.

Elderberry is a herb of renewal and rebirth. The traditional method of using it in this way is to anoint with Elderberry Oil.

If you’re looking for direction in life, a path through confusion, or just unsure and wondering what to do next, try an elderberry tea to sort out things.

Elderberry Flower Essence is there for when you feel discouraged, fearful, unsafe, or cut off from your spiritual connections. This can happen while you adjust to the rapid and deep change that is happening to the Earth, many governments and cultures, and your body. Helpful when you want to strengthen the connections with your higher dimensional guidance, such as angels, spirit helpers, and your Higher Self.

Folklore of Elderberry

Elderberry’s folklore and history has (of course) many overlaps with Elderflower as they both originate from the same tree.

In folklore, elder trees were believed to be sacred and associated with protection and healing. It was believed that elder trees could ward off evil spirits and provide shelter for fairies and other magical beings. The elder tree's reputation grew, and it became a symbol of wisdom, strength, and longevity in various cultures.

Elderberry, known scientifically as Sambucus, is a versatile and highly valuable plant that has been used for centuries for its health benefits. Hippocrates referred to the elder plant as his “medicine chest” in 400 BC. The uses of the plant and its berries have expanded though the centuries and the cultures of Europe and America.

Historical records suggest that elderberries were used by ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Native Americans, for both medicinal and culinary purposes and were highly esteemed for their healing properties.

Elder is sacred to many goddess traditions, especially those dedicated to the goddesses Venus and Holle. Pagan tradition holds that the spirit which inhabits the Elder tree is the Elder Mother who holds the power to work her magic in this world. It was said that one who falls asleep under the branches of the Elder Tree would have vivid dreams of faery realms and be transported to Celtic faery lands.

Picking Elderberry

When it comes to picking elderberries, timing is crucial. The dark purple clusters of berries are ready for harvest in late summer or early fall, usually around August and September. It is important to ensure the berries are fully ripe, with a rich purple-black colour.

To harvest elderberries, gently cut the cluster of berries away from the stem using sharp scissors or pruners. Be careful not to pull the cluster forcefully, as this can lead to loss of berries or damage the plant. Place the harvested berries in a basket or container, making sure to discard any unripe or damaged berries. It is essential to wash the berries thoroughly before consumption or further processing.

And always leave some for the birds and animals as this is their food for the winter too…

Health Benefits and Uses of Elderberry

Elderberry is known for its remarkable health benefits, particularly in supporting the immune system, but it is so much more than that. This fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds that help protect the body against harmful free radicals and oxidative stress - most of which are no longer available in the berries and foods we can get in the supermarket. Some of the key health benefits and uses of elderberry include:

Immune Support

Elderberry has been shown to strengthen the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms. They are rich in flavonoids, which are responsible for their dark purple colour, stimulate the production of cytokines, and play a crucial role in immune response. These powerful antioxidants work to keep the immune system strong and resilient.

They can be both inflammatory or anti-inflammatory depending on what is needed and are released by immune cells either directly into the bloodstream or locally into body tissue during an immune response.

Elderberry syrup or supplements are commonly used to alleviate symptoms of cold and flu, such as fever, sore throat, cough, and congestion. It can help shorten the duration and intensity of these illnesses.

Antiviral and Antibacterial Properties

Elderberry has natural antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help fight off viral and bacterial infections, including influenza, herpes, and certain respiratory infections. As well as fighting bacteria topically on the skin too.

Urinary Infections

UTI’s, cystitis and bladder infections cause a world of misery and pain. The constant urge to urinate, accompanied by a burning sensation can leave the sufferer feeling housebound and depressed. Elderberry tea may bring significant relief from this debilitating condition – first and foremost acting as a diuretic. This is important as it causes the kidneys to continually flush out toxins whilst increasing urination. This in turn helps to flush out the bacteria that cause cystitis, reducing the likelihood of the infection spreading to the bladder and/or kidneys and may also help to reduce its duration. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce inflammation, potentially reducing the burning and pain that accompanies urination.

Allergy Relief

Elderberry’s immunostimulating and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great natural remedy for allergy symptoms. Inflammation of the sinuses, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, swelling and a runny or stuffy nose can all benefit from this potent herb. It is thought to be particularly good for hayfever and strengthening the upper respiratory tract. Elderberry aids respiratory health by reducing inflammation and congestion. It can soothe coughs and alleviate bronchial and sinus discomfort.

Elderflower's anti-catarrhal action is also effective in clearing congestion and runny noses caused by seasonal allergies.

Digestive Health

The high fibre content of elderberries can help to eliminate constipation, reduce excess gas and generally increase the health of the gastrointestinal system. The dietary fibre contained in these berries can also increase nutrient uptake efficiency, especially in the gut, helping you to get more out of the food that you eat. 

Just be careful if you aren’t constipated, eating too many of these berries can act as a laxative too.

Skin Health

Elderberry's high antioxidant content can benefit skin health by protecting against oxidative damage caused by exposure to environmental toxins and UV radiation. It may also help improve skin complexion and reduce the signs of aging.

Culinary Uses

Elderberries can be used in various culinary creations, including jams, syrups, pies, and teas. They add a delightful sweet-tart flavor and a vibrant color to dishes, making them a versatile and delicious addition to recipes.

A cinnamony and spicy Elderberry syrup is one of my favourite recipes for Autumn/Winter, especially drizzled ontop of yogurts, pancakes, and porridges.

Elderberry Syrup Recipe

The simplest elderberry recipe, and possibly the most common, is elderberry syrup. You can use this as a cordial to add to hot water and make a delicious warming drink, but you can also take it neat by the spoonful to help relieve cold and flu symptoms (take one teaspoon every hour at the first sign of a sore throat or a cold).

Ingredients

1kg Elderberries (roughly)

200ml of water

10 cloves

1in fresh ginger / 1tbs dried

1tsp cinnamon powder

300g set honey

To make:

• Strip the berries from their stems using a folk (removing any that are still green).

• Add the berries to a large pan, covering the bottom of the pan with a small amount of water - enough so that the berries don't burn.

• Bring to the boil, and then simmer for about 25mins until the berries give up their juice.

• Take off the heat and allow to cool. Then strain the mixture and press through a muslin cloth of fine meshed sieve.

• Once you have all the liquid pour it back into your pan, and add all the other ingredients.

• Put on a low heat and stir until all the honey had melted.Once all your ingredients are combined bring the mixture to the boil for 5minutes.

• Allow to cool before straining the mixture a final time.Store in sterilised air tight glass bottles, and keep in the fridge once opened.

(The syrup should keep for 6-12 months if stored correctly).

xo Emily