Rowan

Sorbus aucuparia

The orange berries are rich in vitamin C and are eaten cooked; raw they contain parasorbic acid, which irritates the stomach and bowel. A medicinal effect has hardly been studied.

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

Berries cooked into jelly, jam or brandy; do not eat raw.

Use in traditions

In Scotland, Ireland and Scandinavia rowan was planted by the house against witches; twigs bound into a cross were hung above the stable. The berries serve as bird food, hence the Dutch name, and are cooked into a jelly for game. In herbal magic associated with psychic powers, divination, healing and protection against evil.

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.

Psychic abilities, divination, healing, protection against evil, peace, creativity, success, change, purification, house blessing, wisdom, strengthens spells.

Home, kitchen and folk use

Preparation and amount

Berries for brewing; bark for tanning and as a dye.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tincture

Sources

en.wikipedia.org

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