Elderberry

Elder

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Elderberry

Elder

Sambucus nigra / canadensis

Perennial anchorFoodMedicinalPerennial anchor

Sign

Scorpio

House

Element

Water

Modality

Fixed

Ayurvedic Profile

Dosha Effect

Pacifies Vata & Kapha

Rasa / Taste

Sweet; Sour; Astringent

Virya / Energy

Cooling

Medicinal Actions

Antiviral, immune-modulating, diaphoretic; deep immune support

Helps With

Cold & flu Fever Congestion

Why This Plant

"The dark berries of the death-and-rebirth shrub, sacred to the threshold. Scorpio's regenerative power — elder rallies the immune system against the year's deep illnesses."

Cultivation

Hardy shrub; full sun to part shade; moist soil; cook berries before eating.

Zone: 6a

Safety

Raw berries, leaves, bark are toxic — must be cooked. Flag clearly.

Save the seed of the plant that helped you — next year it helps your neighbor.