Elder is a fitting tree to follow Blackthorn as its meaning is transformation, Death, and regeneration. It has one of the strongest reputations for fairy and witch superstitions and the magical protection of all the Ogham trees. It is the end of a cycle or problem and a rebirth.
Elder Tree Symbolism
A transition. Exorcism, banishing, healing. Elder is a witch tree, along with Rowan and Blackthorn, associated with death, magic, magic wands and enchantment. It is also, therefore, not to be reckoned with.
Ogham Astrology Elder:
November 25th – December 23rd
English: Elder
Celtic: Ruis
Latin: Sambucus nigra
Planet: Venus
Ogham Element Elder: Water
It represents maturity and the awareness that comes from experience. It is particularly associated with the protection of children. Being the 13th consonant of the Ogham, it is associated with the 13th month of the calendar year. The Winter Solstice. It marks the darkest time of the year and so is associated with death and the Crone aspect of the triple Goddess.
Elder Tree Uses and Health Benefits
Use a simple infusion of the berries for a mild laxative. The flowers make tea to purify the blood and to treat coughs and irritable throats. It can also be used as a skin cleanser and lotion. Fresh leaves can be used as a compress for surface wounds.
Elderflower water is used by chemists as a vehicle for eye and skin lotions. Flowers and fruit are rich in vitamin C. The leaves can be made into ear drops to treat inflammation. The bark, roots, berries, and leaves can all be used as a dye. And the berries are good for making jam, wine, vinegar, and syrups.
The leaves and berries are used for protection and in breaking spells that were cast against you, or to undo spells of evil intent. Growing an elder tree in your garden will protect your property from misfortune and harm.
Elder Tree Personality
Elder tree symbolism within the personality. The cycle has ended, there is a change arising from the old and bringing about a new phase. All are continuously linked to phases of life and experiences repeat themselves in subtly different ways, always leading to renewal.
Here, not only are you asked to accept the inevitability of your situation, but also the associated embarrassment or anger of what fate has dealt you. What do you need to dispose of in order to make room for the new? And what do you want to replace it with?
Elder Tree Folklore
Elder Tree Magical Meaning. Always connected with the female deities, with witches, fairy folk, protection and guardianship. The Elder Mother or wise woman is said to take shelter amongst the roots of the tree and protect the land. In Pagan folklore, it is sometimes called the Judas tree.
Elda Mor is a good goddess to petition whenever there is sickness, especially in children. As a Goddess tree, it is associated with the triple goddess, the totem animal bat, witches, and wizards and it was also said to have been used as a broomstick on which to travel to the astral. Because of its powerful magical qualities, it was also said to have been used by Druids to shape-shift.
Elder Tree Magical Meaning
Make a fan from nine small twigs (seven for the fairies), bind it with red thread and wear it as a necklace when making any magic needing powerful elemental beings to be present. Or make an amulet from nine twigs cut at the full moon. Tie them together making two knots of red cord and state your magical intention. Wear it until the thread breaks, then bury it where it can never be found. © by Druid Priestess Jyoti Eagles