ELDERBERRIES

SMALL (3"x3") weighs approx. 1.13oz

LARGE (3"x5") weighs approx. 2.57oz

Powers: Exorcism, Protection, Healing, Prosperity, Sleep

Ritual uses: Elderflowers were a sacred part of ancient British burial rituals. White elderflowers were often associated with Mother Goddess figures, and the tree itself was believed to house witches and spirits. Legend says that when the elder was cut, red sap would "bleed" from it. Before cutting an elder, it was customary to recite a specific formula:

Lady Ellhorn, give me of thy wood,

And I will give thee of mine,

When I become a tree.

This ritual involves kneeling before the tree and reciting before making the initial cut. This allows the Witch or spirit residing within the tree to depart peacefully.

Magical uses: Elderberries have been found to be a powerful defense against various forms of attack. When placed above doorways and windows, they can effectively ward off any evil that may seek to enter the house. Additionally, carrying elderberries can help break any enchantments or spells cast upon you by malevolent forces. Growing elderberries in your garden also offers protection against sorcery and shields it from lightning, ensuring safety for your household.

To bless a person, place, or thing, simply scatter elder leaves and berries to the four winds in the name of the individual or object to be blessed. Follow by sprinkling additional elder over the person or object, and the blessing is complete.

To reduce a fever, insert an elder twig into the soil while remaining quiet. Pain from toothaches can be relieved by chewing on an elder twig, then pressing it onto a wall and uttering: "Depart thou evil spirit!"

According to folklore, toothaches were believed to be caused by malevolent spirits. In order to protect against rheumatism, it was advised to tie an elder twig into three or four knots and carry it in one's pocket.

Warts can be treated by gently rubbing them with a green elder twig and then allowing the twig to decay in the earth by burying it.

Cultivated near homes, elderberries bring prosperity to households, while placed sticks provide protection against thieves and snakes.

Elderberries are known for their traditional use in weddings, believed to bring good luck to the couple. Additionally, pregnant women are known to kiss the tree for good fortune and blessings for the upcoming birth.

Utilize elderberries under your pillow to aid sleep if you experience restless nights. They promote peaceful slumber.

Use elderberries to resist the temptation of engaging in adultery. Create flutes from the branches and summon spirits through the power of their music. This task is most effectively done at midnight in a remote location, far from human civilization.

Elder wood is often deemed dangerous to burn and, according to some Gypsies, should never be used as firewood. Despite this, magicians have been incorporating its wood into the creation of magic wands for centuries.

Dried elderberries deliver flexible options for many culinary needs and the flavor of elderberry develops most when mixed in foods or drinks. They are used in sweet syrups and desserts, and they provide a pleasant, fruity aroma. Elderberries are also perfect to be paired with other fruits, as their earthy undertones are emphasized when used in jams and jellies. This dark, purple berry also complements teas and warming winter cordials.

CONSUMPTION MAY CAUSE DIGESTIVE DISCOMFORT. IF PREGNANT, NURSING, SUFFERING FROM ANY MEDICAL CONDITION, OR TAKING MEDICATION, CONSULT A HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONER BEFORE USE. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Gender: Female

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Holda, Venus