general information:
Elder is an herb for those attuned to the countryside. It may be used to protect the livestock, most commonly by tying two small pieces with red yarn to the barn or stable. A farm which has Elder to be found within its reaches is considered blessed, and the Elder growth should be considered a sacred place, free from being despoiled. Allowing one's livestock to wander amid the Elder-growth is a means of bringing them protection.

The magickal power of Elder is most potent, and as a result much of the lore treats Elder with warning. It was once thought that using a rod of Elder to punish a child would cease the child's growth, for magickally the rod represents control, and the spiritual energy of Elder would amplify this desire to control until it would be out of hand. Elder will bring magick to even the slightest wish; no wonder then it has a mixed reputation.

Elder Blossoms are gathered and used magickally as a fixative in dry incense mixtures, for they easily attract and hold oils which are added to the incense, releasing them with their own when burnt upon glowing charcoal. They will increase the power of a ritual, but require clear, goals and pure ethics.

There are so many stories which associate the Elder with sadness and grief, going so far as to say Elder was that wood upon which the traitor Judas was hung. These are believed, in large part, due to the natural magick of the herbe. Magick in the hands of those with questionable motive, or in the lives of those who understand it not and fear it, becomes confusing, disorienting, and leads to life-shaking events. Although the cause is within one's own heart, Elder has become the scapegoat.

Those who wish to see the spirits of the wood, known as Dryads among magickal folk, would do well to spend the full moon night in a small grove of Elder, making certain that there is no evil in the heart,and that proper fasting and ritual preparation has been made.

Elder may be used in incense or oil to keep one safe and protected. It finds occasional use in the blessings of babies, both Christian and pagan. As a Funereal Herbe, it has been used as the wood for the pyre, and is sometimes buried with the departed to give protection.

Resource: THE MASTER BOOK OF HERBALISM

Form & Weight: Organic, Dried, Cut, Half Pound

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