Elderberry - The Wise Crone

Note: This article first appeared in The Future of Health Now in 2013

Elderberry - named for the wise Elder mother spirit said to inhabit this tree - has enjoyed a rise in popularity recently. However, she has been the backbone of herbal healing in Europe since ancient times. Revered by Druids, utilized by herbalists, and given a healthy respect even by the animals, Elderberry is one plant you'll want to get to know personally.

First off, a fair bit of caution must be exercised in harvesting and consuming Elder, garnering that well-deserved respect: The leaves, bark, wood, and seeds all contain a poisonous alkaloid that may turn into cyanide. Only the berries and flowers are edible, but the leaves may be crushed and spread around the garden for a natural insecticide. When using elderberry, make sure to remove stems and twigs, strain out the seeds, and to heat the berries before consumption to avoid possible tummy aches. Don't let this scare you off, though! With these cautions, it's easy to take advantage of the benefits of this special tree!

The flowers, a common flavouring agent for soft drinks in parts of Europe, not only taste divine, but have a wonderful healing use. Elder flower tincture and tea is said to drop "frighteningly high fevers without fail" (Susan S. Weed: Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year). I have found this to be true. For children, it's recommended that the base of this tincture be made of apple cider vinegar instead of alcohol. I find a tea works just as well, especially when paired with douglas fir. Dosages may vary, so it is important to consult a qualified healthcare practitioner such as an herbalist or naturopathic doctor before stocking the tincture in your cupboard. And, although fevers have an important role in the healing process, always seek medical attention if the fever lasts more than 23days, or reaches 40C or higher (see references below for further information).

Mashed in oil and applied topically, elder flowers provide quick and luxurious relief to the breasts during the challenging first few weeks of breastfeeding, or during bouts of mastitis. This oil may also be applied to sensitive areas such as the perineum prior to and after giving birth. The tea is a miracle worker for mastitis, and should be enjoyed frequently by the patient. One can quickly see how the Elder tree earned the role of guardian and healer of mothers!

The abundant fruits are not to be outdone. Elderberry has long been used to fortify the body at the onset of colds, but certain compounds in the berry actually prevent the 'Flu virus from entering body cells! In fact, Elderberry is effective against at least eight known strains of influenza, and greatly increases recovery time. 90% of patients in clinical trials of Sambucol (a patented syrup made from Elderberry) fully recovered from Influenza within three days!

It is easy enough to make your own syrup at home. Simply combine equal parts berries and sugar (ex: 1 cup to 1 cup) and a small splash of lemon juice in a pot. Mash with a potato masher or fork (all the berries should break open, releasing the juice), and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Strain well. You may can the syrup for stable shelf storage, or keep a jar in the back of your fridge for up to 6 weeks. If desired, you may also use honey, coconut sugar, or stevia as a sweetener.

I like to keep the dried berries on hand for tea, which is an excellent way to utilize this healer. This way, you can gain the benefit of the berries without the sugar in syrups, which harm the immune system.

The flowers are a wonderful addition to fermented beverages such as water kefir or kombucha, or even to flavour plain water. 

There are 20-30 types of Elderberry throughout North America, although three are best known: Black, Blue, and Red. Blue Elderberry is known for its superior taste, while Black Elderberry is best known in remedies. The Red Elder has been marred by a persistent rumour of toxicity, but rest assured, Red Elder is perfectly safe, and was enjoyed as a staple food source by Indigenous peoples from Boston Bar to Oregon.Be sure not to mistake these for Hercules' Club or Water Hemlock, both of which can be fatal.

Enjoy, and happy wildcrafting!

*Please always consult a healthcare professional of your choosing if you are on medication or have a health condition before beginning any herbal regime*

References:

- www.fraserhealth.ca/your_health/health-topics/fever_in_children/fever_in_children

- Prescription for Herbal Healing: 2nd Edition – Phyllis A. Balch, CNC

- Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year - Susan S. Weed