Elder Is the Lady's tree - Burn it not or cursed you'll be

[thecyfarwydd]

Another quick question, I understand that burning the actual tree wouldn’t be advisable, but what about the leaves or berries, would you be able to burn these (as an ingredient in a incense or oil)

Many thanks

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Comments

[suraktaarati]

I don't see a problem in that. As long as you don't ingest it, of course.
Elder has a great many uses in banishing negativity and protection. I would use the flowers as opposed to the leaves, though.

[leeneh]

Some places in Scandinavia that would be like chopping off and burning a friend's ear. And, at the very least you'll find yourself sick afterwards. In Dartmoor, England, they say "If you burn elder, you skin a sheep" - meaning she'll get back at you through your livestock, while in Wiltshire they say that burning elder will draw the devil down the chimney into your home. Some places you mustn't even bring it indoors.

But (this is in Scandinavia again), if you know how to ask her, she'll be happy to give you flowers and berries for food and medicine. And, you're usually welcome to pick whatever she drops. Sometimes (certain times of the year) she allows you to take other parts for protective magic or for healing. But any sort of fire around her is a no-no.

Of course, she's also shunned for burning because she stinks (the wood does, at least). So - if you take the chance anyway - she might be good to burn if you're trying to repel something. Not so much maybe if you want to honour someone.