Elderberries (Sambucus nigra)
Organic
Energy: Feminine
Planet: Jupiter
Element: Water
Magical & Spiritual Uses
Elderberries are traditionally worked with for protection, healing, warding, renewal, and ancestral blessing. In folk magic and rootwork traditions, elder has long been regarded as a guardian plant, used to protect the home, strengthen spiritual defenses, and support restoration after illness or hardship. Elderberries are often included in protection charms, seasonal rites, and workings centered on resilience, continuity, and long-term well-being. Their association with Jupiter aligns them with abundance, preservation, and the safeguarding of family and community.
Indigenous & Black Diasporic Context
In Indigenous North American traditions, elder species were widely respected and carefully worked with. Various Nations used elderberries as a seasonal food and preserved resource, preparing them as decoctions, syrups, or dried stores for winter use. Elder was understood as a powerful plant that required correct preparation and respectful handling, as certain parts of the plant were known to be unsafe if misused.
Within African American folk practice, elderberry became an important winter staple and restorative plant through a blending of Indigenous knowledge, European herbal tradition, and survival-based foodways. Elderberry syrups, wines, and cordials were commonly prepared in Southern households and used seasonally to support strength and endurance. Elder’s protective reputation also carried into spiritual practice, where it was associated with guarding the household and reinforcing spiritual resilience. These references are shared as cultural and historical context only.
Traditional & Folk Herbal Context
Elder is a perennial shrub native to Europe, North America, and southwest Asia and commonly found along hedgerows, forest edges, and gardens. Elderberries have been used for centuries to make preserves, wines, syrups, cordials, and herbal infusions. Historically, elderberries were valued for their deep color, flavor, and seasonal usefulness. The dried fruits are less bitter than fresh berries and were often combined with other botanicals in traditional preparations. While the flowers and properly prepared berries were used traditionally, the leaves, bark, and raw fruit were known to be unsafe if consumed improperly. These references are shared as historical and educational context only.
 
Organic herb. Sold unprepared. Curio only.
As with all herbs, there may be slight variations in size, color, texture, cut, or appearance due to natural growing conditions, seasonal differences, and processing methods.
 
 Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
Precautions:
Raw elderberries contain sambunigrin and must be properly prepared before consumption. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to use.