The Artistic Farmer

Sambucus nigra. Caprifoliaceae                                                                  

A hedgerow shrub, found also in woodland and gardens. Large broken-form leaves, of strong scent. Flowers are in flat wheel heads of creamy white color, waxy, very fragrant. Dark purple edible, strong tasting berries. This is one of the greatest of all herbs. It is sacred to the gypsies who will not burn it as wood in their fires; they declare that a tree which can help all ailments of mankind and can restore sight to the blind is too precious to burn. A favorite herb of that great doctor, Hippocrates. Elder trees survive in the courts of the old synagogues of Safad ( the ancient town of the mystics of Galilee, birthplace of the Kabala). A magic tree.

Use, internal:

Elder Root, washed and soaked, yields a juice valuable in treatments of lymphatic ailments and dropsy. Also kidney ailments. Can be used also as a brew; simmer the finely-shaved root for several minutes. The inner bark of elder, taken from old branches, is an esteemed remedy against epileptic fits. Dose: Steep a tablespoon of the powdered inner bark layers in a small glass of wine. When the onset of fits is suspected, give a wineglassful every night during quiet periods.

Use, external:

The leaves of elder, as a strong Standard Brew, strengthened with the addition of geranium leaves and garlic cloves, are a potent remedy against itch, ringworm, scrofula (used internally and externally). Use the Standard Brew plain as a cure for eczema and baby rashes.

Use, internal:

Elder flowers, steeped raw in water, for colds, coughs and pulmonary infections.

Use external: Elder flowers for all eye ailments. Has restored sight to the blind (when the nerves of the eye were effected by shocks such as bomb blast).

Elder Blossom Complexion Lotion is an old-fashioned but excellent treatment for the skin and hair. Also for burns, scalds, and erysipelas sores. Heat slowly, for thirty minutes or so, until the blossoms soften, a handful of elder blossoms in a half-pint of buttermilk or cheese whey. Do not heat above new-milk-warm. Remove from heat and steep for three hours and steep for three hours. Reheat and add an ounce of honey. When cold, apply to face, neck and hands. Cools, softens and cleanses the skin.

Use, internal:

Elder berries, pounded up in honey, make a soothing and healing remedy for sore throats, coughs. An anemia remedy, prescribed in tonsillitis. Use, external: Elder berries, can be applied to burns and scalds. Against malignant skin growths, they are used internally and externally. They are a gentle laxative.