Asanakoonzhuymihtkwus (Munsee)
Elderflower            Sambucus canadensis

This Medicine comes from the Black Elderberry tree and is commonly known as ‘Elder Blows’ by the Stockbridge-Munsee Community. The Elder Blows are the white blooms that precede the black berries of the tree and are used to alleviate fevers, colds, and constipation. Harvest Elder Blows during the springtime. You will find them growing at the edges of forests or in areas of new growth. Collect Elder Blows inside a paper or cotton bag, making sure not to break apart the flowerheads. Preserve this medicine by placing the flowerheads on top of a cotton sheet to dry. When fully dried, store the flowers inside a cotton or paper bag. Elder Blows are consumed as a tea to alleviate various symptoms.

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Ingredients and equipment:

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- 1 tbsp of Elder Blows

- 1-1 1⁄2 cups of water

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Preparation and usage:

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1. Steep 1 tbsp of Elder Blows in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes.

 

Adults: Drink up to three cups of tea per day.

Children: Dilute tea with an additional 1⁄2 cup of water and drink as desired.