Elder is the Celtic Tree for the period from 25 November to 22 December. This month, be open to hope and change
Every part of the elder (Sambucus nigra) has medicinal properties; its bark, leaves, flowers and berries can be used for bruises, wounds, colds, hayfever, respiratory illness and fevers.
The purplish berries, which appear in late August are particularly potent and the Druids regarded any that remained on the tree in December as a gift from the Earth Goddess. The flowers can be used as a skin cleanser and also made into a potent hay fever remedy, when steeped in local honey.
Whistles or flutes were often made from elder and are said to help in contacting the fae folk! In Ireland the witches' broom had a shaft made of elder as opposed to the more traditional ash.
In the Celtic Tree Calendar, the elder, which rules the thirteenth moon comes at the darkest time of year. Therefore the tree is associated with death and the Crone aspect of the triple Goddess.
It is thought to house the spirit of the Elder Mother who will both harm and protect those around her. Use the tree without permission and you will be met with bad omens. Conversely, plant a tree by your home or hang the branches by your door to ensure good fortune and ward away evil spirits.
The deep link to regeneration comes from how broken branches can easily take root and regrow. The rebirth of a new tree. A symbol of the end that takes us back to the beginning in a cycle of life and death.
The month of Elder is perfect for trying something new and challenging, something you may never have done before. It is the darkest time of the year but be ready for the new and be open to change that may come your way.
Attributes of Those Born Under Celtic Tree Sign Elder
The elder is a very adaptable tree, quite able to regenerate itself in many ways. Born under the elder sign, you are able to live and prosper under any conditions. You will live many "lives" during your time here, and will carry those memories into every new venture. Think of yourself as a traveller and a student, collecting experience and knowledge.
Those born under the elder tree are thoughtful and empathetic with a philosophical mind. They have a caring persona and are considerate of others but will be brutally honest if the situation calls for it. They have a wild and extroverted personality and tend to seek out adventure wherever they can.
Animal Correspondences
Pheasant, Raven and Rook
Keywords
Transformation, Death, Queen
Your Rune
Ruis is a single downwards stroke and four diagonal lines. It symbolizes consciousness and maturity.
