
Herb Directory

Elderberry
Alternative Name:
Sambucus nigra subsp
Elderberry, believed to have originated in Europe and North America, has a history steeped in folklore and practical use.
Ancient Egyptians and Native Americans were among the first to recognize its medicinal properties. In Europe, elderberries were employed to treat respiratory issues, while Native Americans used them for infections and wound healing.
The name “elder” comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “aeld,” meaning “fire,” as the stems were commonly used as kindling. Interestingly, elder holds a dual role in mythology: revered by pagan traditions for its protective and magical attributes, yet feared in Christian lore as a symbol of sorrow and death.
Whether gateway guardian or mystical conduit, elder connects worlds through its hard outer bark and soft inner core, much like the spirit it embodies.