Elder, Elderberry or Elder flower all come from the same shrub/bush. The flowers are small and delicate stars.
Most common use is for detoxification. Combinations with Elder aid for flu, arthritis and stomach problems. Elder helps ease hay fever as well as chicken pox.
Elderberry Wine
2 lbs elderberries
2 lbs brown sugar
1 tsp allspice
5 cloves
1 Tbsp diced ginger roots
16 cups water
1 oz toast
1 Tbsp wine yeast
In a pan, bring six ingredients to a slow boil for 30 minutes. Pour in a glass jar, add yeast & bread. Store in the cellar at 68 degrees or less for 20 days. Strain & store for 2 months. Check for proper fermentation before drinking.
Another herb that is very helpful to women is Dong Quai or Chinese Angelica.
Dong Quai is an ingredient in many recipes that aid the healing of cramps, constipation and menopause. The herb is also credited with boosting the immune system and clearing away colds, flus and infections with an antibiotic effect.
Calendula also known as a potted marigold.
Calendula is a very good herb to have on hand. It's mild but works amazingly fast on skin ailments such as athlete's foot and cracked skin.
Other ailments that are aided by Calendula are menstrual cramps, thrush, ulcers and measles.
Known by Native American women from the Algonquin tribe, Blue Cohosh is also known as Squaw root.
As the name suggests, Blue Cohosh works on women's ailments such as cramps or delayed menstrual cycles. Additionally, the herb aids with arthritis, gout and is very helpful in birthing.
