Ash

Fraxinus excelsior

The leaf was used as a mild diuretic and laxative and for gout. There is little research; a medicinal effect has not been shown.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Leaf as tea; the tough wood for tool handles and spears.

Use in traditions

In Norse mythology Yggdrasil, the world tree that connects heaven, earth and the underworld, is an ash. In England sick children were passed through a split young ash to heal them. The leaf was drunk as tea for gout and rheumatism. Since the 1990s ash trees across Europe have been dying from ash dieback. In herbal magic associated with water, strength, intellect and willpower.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Folklore and herbal magic

Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.

Water, strength, intellect, willpower, protection, justice, balance and harmony, skill, travel, weather, wisdom, healing, prosperity.

Home, kitchen and folk use

Preparation and amount

Seen as the World Tree in European traditions.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)

Sources

en.wikipedia.org

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