SAMBUCUS NIGRA
EARTH ELEMENT
HARMONY QI 土
Elder is one of the most powerful trees in mythology and has traditionally become associated with ill-fortune and bad spirits. In ancient mythology, the Elder is symbolic of endings and rebirth from its association with the Celtic festival of Samhain (Halloween) and Elder branches are hung over the doors to ward off evil spirits.
Elderberry trees have opposite, elongated, toothed leaflets that are three to four inches long. Elderflower, found throughout most of North America, has cream-colored flowers, or elderflowers in late spring and early summer. The flowers grow in umbels, which are sort of umbrella-shaped clusters. Once finished flowering, they transform into clusters of small dark purple berries that ripen mid-summer to early fall.
- Bodily Effect: Elderflower is used to treat sinusitis, colds, influenza, bronchitis, diabetes, and constipation. It is also used as a diuretic, a diaphoretic, and to stop bleeding.
- Emotional Effect: With its uplifting effect, Elderflower plays a role in renewal, rejuvenation, and reinvigoration.
- Spiritual Effect: The high resin content of Palo Santo wood is believed to clear negative energy and purify spaces, people, and objects.
"Elder flower has the power to bridge the divide between physical and the spiritual realm."
—Dr. Krystal Couture, Homeopath + Plant Whisperer @drkrystalcouture
