History of Elderberry
Feb 20, 2020
Elderberry eld·er·ber·ry /ˈeldərˌberē/ ‘Elder’ Fire-kindler, meaning to kindle a flame.
Elderberry is a tree of the old world from Europe to North America, used in many versatile ways, from food to common home uses.
In many old movies, the scripts included the various kinds and copious amounts of Elderberry wine, champagne, and tea. They make it look so good that you want to try to make them. Just think, an immune boosting adult beverage.
It has been known for centuries to be a plant of health. Although, many also saw it as a source of superstition. The Elderberry tree was a magical plant for them in those times. The Native American’s named it the “tree of music” for their use of making flutes and whistles. They used the berries for a broad range of healing their health issues, as well as for fabric dyes. They used the bark and leaves for many uses; externally and internally for bruising, parasites and muscle soreness. Today, we don’t use the leaves or bark because they have found them to be toxic, but the wood can be used for propagating new plants and dried to use it for projects. The flowers and berries are still used the same way today with some added variety of recipes like Elderberry gummies, syrup, jams, jellies, wine, champagne and many other herbal remedies.
There is some folklore behind the elderberry tree. Many believed it was the tree of superstition. It has been said that it used to be carried in pockets, tied up cluster of small branches of elder wood for protection and used with their prayers. England believed it to be the sacred or Holy tree..
Recently, Elderberries have made a come back as the once popular home remedy for health issues like the common cold, cough, fever and the flu. Elderberry is a great nutritional berry that is known to boost immune systems to fight off the illnesses. The fruit has high levels of antioxidants and other beneficial nutritional properties. The Elder flower makes a great recipe for Elder flower water. The flowers are also very beneficial for fevers as it promotes sweating.
Elderberries are a great addition to your gardening landscape. Check out the propagating link to see just how easy it is to grow Elderberry tree for yourself and take control of where your food comes from and limit the about of pesticides used.