The Elder Tree

The Elder Tree

As a Grove Witch and Druid, how could I not devote a blogpost to each specific variety of tree? I was partially inspired to write this blog by a favorite Youtuber of mine, “Story Crow”, which I am very happy to link and share with you here if you would like to watch his video all about the Elder Tree.

https://youtu.be/tll4gcqZkAk?si=2zUuDzhKQQWdsJ8R

First of all, many trees are said to be a link to the Fae or Fairy realms.  I believe all trees are magical. They each have their own spirit, their own devas or spirit guardians, also sometimes called Dryads.  They each have their own healing properties as well, both physical and metaphysical;  as do all plants, fungi and herbs.  So all trees and plants should be honored, protected and given our gratitude. 

Associations

The Elder tree has beautiful little white flowers when it buds and little dark red, almost black, berries.  It is a tree of wisdom as the name “Elder” implies; a very old and ancient tree. Therefore, it is also associated with death and transitions.  As such, this tree is also associated with the end of Summer or early Fall, towards the end of the year when things begin to die only to be reborn again next Spring.  Elder is also associated with the Planet Saturn, aka Chronos, the Father of Time, the underworld, and interestingly, wealth. In Scotland, the folklore talks of buried treasure that lies beneath the Elder tree.  She is also associated with the Celtic Goddess Cailleach, the embodiment of Winter, and the Divine Feminine, especially the Crone or the Witch.  Her energy is benevolent and grandmotherly.  

Folklore

Her wood is not hard or strong, it is spongy and brittle, and does not actually make good for structures or building homes.  But it is good for crafts as it is very easy to hollow out, and some say the first “Pan Pipes” were made from the Elder tree. However, for the most part, this tree is one you just want to admire, sit beneath, or talk with and watch for the Fae Folk to come by.  It is actually considered unlucky to burn it in your fireplace.  So leave the Elder where she is and all will be well.  She will be happy to impart her magic to you while you visit with her.  My favorite folklore about this tree told by the Story Crow, is that it is said if you fall asleep under the Elder Tree on Midsummer’s Eve, you will be whisked away to the Fairy Realm and possibly even meet the Fairy King or Queen and be invited to a fairy party.

Protective Properties

This is a tree that does grow in hedgerows. A hedgerow is a group of closely planted trees or shrubs that form a barrier or boundary.  So there is a protective element to the Elder Tree as well. You can draw the Ogham symbol for the Elder tree on you or around your home or space, anywhere you want to feel protected. The Elder is represented by the Ogham “Ruis” and you can find an image of it here:

https://images.app.goo.gl/m7AFWRFJqiEZRDo58

Healing Properties

She also has many medicinal and healing properties from her buds to her berries.  The bark can be used as a diuretic and a purgative if you need to purge a toxin or illness from your body or just to detoxify in general. Ingesting elderberry bark can cause you to sweat out a fever, or clear out your sinus cavities, or to urinate toxins out. 

The Elderberry or Elderflower increases your immunity, helps relieve symptoms of common colds, respiratory viruses, sinusitis or rhinitis and speeds up healing, as it has powerful antioxidants, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. The berries are full of Vitamin C and A.

https://www.hbf-products.com/en/blog/post/16/the-benefits-of-elderflower?page_type=post

Elderberry can also help with constipation, especially by blending it with other herbs such as Senna, Anise or Fennel.  It can help with joint pain and minor skin irritations and promotes heart health as well.

https://welzo.com/blogs/news/elderflower-benefits

Elderflower tea is also lovely and you can make tinctures, syrup or jam from the berries.  You can take an elderberry tincture as a daily supplement to keep your immunity strong.  My daughter and I take one dropper of a tincture everyday, one that is alcohol free, and I can attest it helps us greatly.  If and when we do get colds, the duration is much shorter and with less severity.  Our favorite brand is: Mary Ruth’s Organic Sugar Free ‘Kids’ (no alcohol) Extra Strength Elderberry Liquid Drops. 

https://a.co/d/5YLPOzj

This is just a short introduction to the beautiful little Elder Tree. I encourage you, as with every blogpost, to do your own research as well.  If you encounter an Elder Tree, sit beneath her with a journal and ask her to tell you about herself.  Ask if any Fae Folk are there.  Ask to see her guardian spirits (Dryads or Devas).  Thank her for her healing properties that her flowers and berries bestow upon us.  Bring some spring or filtered water with you to give as an offering to her.  Then perhaps when you go home you can sit with a nice cup of elderflower tea before bed and reflect on your experiences with the magical Elder Tree.

Blessings to you always on your path! And remember to always take steps towards a greener life! Honor and thank Mother Gaia, and all her beautiful creations! 

• A.F.  – The Grove Witch –