18/09/2026
I was fortunate to stumble upon these huge elderberries whilst out walking today.
Elderberries are great for keeping Winter bugs away due in part to their lectin and vitamin C content. An elderberry syrup is a great medicine to keep away colds and flus but take care when gathering*.
Also, you must always ask permission before cutting an Elder tree as the spirit that resides within the tree will haunt you or at least so is the belief across several countries including the UK (just to be on the safe side, I ask permission when picking berries & flowers too!)
“Lady Ellhorn, give me of thy wood,
And I will give thee of mine,
When I become a tree.”
In short, Elder will protect you if you protect her.
You can learn this and more in some of my upcoming talks and workshops which will be announced soon...
*Correct identification is paramount and avoid gathering unripe berries as they may cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort.