Elderflower and the etiquette of foraging
Elderflower is one of those plants that is quintessentially, recognisably British – that frothy, fluffy bloom that pops up along country walks and in the dirt and cracks of suburban wastelands in late summer. For this post, I’d like to use elderflower as a jumping-off point about foraging in general, and some “folk etiquette” specifically.
Elderflower, with a long tradition in Britain and its folklore
Elder has a rich history of traditional uses, often with a tinge of superstition. For instance, an old superstition held that cutting elderflowers or cutting down the elder tree in general without asking the tree’s permission first will incur the tree’s wrath – possibly resulting in accidents or even death. I don’t know how much credence that belief used to have. Still, I think it’s an instructive example and a useful piece of “folk etiquette” – it serves as a reminder not to be cavalier about taking nature’s resources.
Elderflower cordial has long been a part of traditional British cuisine and folk medicine, having been long prepared by housewives and herbalists alike with no pretensions of it becoming a trendy, designer grocery product. It’s an easy recipe to try out with any forager’s first finds – a few simple ingredients (flowers, sugar, lemon, water), some time to steep and strain, and you’re all set!
Foraging responsibly, as a practice and an ethic
I think this is the most important part of this particular post, really – while the superstitions surrounding elderflower foraging may have long been dismissed as fanciful and outdated, they encapsulate the most important rules for responsible, sustainable foraging. Take no more than a third (or even a fifth) of any given crop – leave some for the local wildlife and for the plant’s own future growth. Don’t forage in places where pollution or other contaminants may be present – roadside plants are especially vulnerable to absorbing harmful substances from the atmosphere. Finally, never eat anything wild without being absolutely, positively sure that you know what you’re eating. A field guide and an experienced eye are essential for any forager.
Why, you ask, does any of this tie into naturopathy and herbalism?
Well, I think foraging is a wonderful introduction to herbalism in general. It forces you to be aware of the plant, of its needs, its habitat, its characteristics that make it identifiable as that particular plant. This is, I think, the most important part of any herb’s relationship with nature. Too many people go into herbalism with the idea of “different herbs for different purposes” in their head, without thinking about the plants as living things. I believe that a serious study of herbalism requires first being able to actually observe, identify and interact with the plant – and foraging is a great way to do that.
If this post has taught you anything, I hope it’s that elderflower foraging may be a great way to do that – with plenty of room for superstitions and “folk etiquette” to overlap with your studies in naturopathy. Remember to take only what you need – and a small amount at that, unless you’re absolutely positive about what else you’re taking! – and always make sure you know what you’re taking!
Til next time,
Lorena