#herbslism

In The Most of the Tree sat A Kindly Old Woman, illustration to Elder Mother Tree, by Arthur Rackham (1867-1939), from Fairy Tales, written by Hans Christian Andersen (1805-75).

“To have Conference with a Fairy- Stroll underneath an Elder tree when the Sun is at the (highest) hottest… And stand under the Tree and say, Magram Magrano Three times and you shall see a flower spring like yellow Gold or Gold yellow And when you have it you shall want nothing. There will also appear a fair woman- Demand of her what thou wilt have And thou shalt have it.” (Grimoire, ed. D. Rankine, page 289)

Part 2

Parts used: leaves, bark, roots, flowers and commercially the seed oil

Primary uses: medicinally as a sedative and for coughs and poultice for piles, bruising, and sores, can be used culinarily (see attached articles), magically/spiritually for hunting and safety, see articles below on more uses including the commercial product

Warnings: be sure to do further research on any interactions with your own personal medications and medical diagnoses

The two evening primroses I’ve been finding in my foraging area include: pinkladies (showy evening primroses), and cutleaf evening primrose

The Native American Herbalism Encyclopedia:

I made a small test batch of mimosa syrup last week. I was really happy with the results and since I found a second blossom covered tree, I decided to make a full jar this evening. Nothing like a full moon to enhance work with a plant that is supposed to increase happiness.

I used three cups of sugar and three cups of water to make a simple syrup. I turned the burner to medium low and added two thirds of a ziploc bag of mimosa blossoms. I simmered the blossoms in the syrup for 45 minutes and then removed the pot from the burner and allowed the blossoms to infuse for a further two hours. Adding the additional two hours resulted in a deeper red color than the last batch and a stronger flavor.

three parts lemon balm

two parts lavender

two parts mint (spearmint in particular is great for this blend)

one part rose petals

one part sage 

a pinch of rosemary leaves

Mix well, using a mortar and pestle. Don't grind so fine that the mixture turns into a powder. Put into an infuser ball and immerse in boiling water for 5-7 minutes. A little honey or coarse brown sugar is great to add if you want a little sweetener. Turn off heat and let steep for 4-5 minutes. The tea is aromatic and calming, but it won't put you to sleep. This makes it great for getting stressful projects done.